March 1998 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

THE

No. 190 • March 1998 • Circulation 17,500

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

City for the 21st Century?

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PLANNING A WEDDING? We can help you make the arrangements for that important day. See pages 34/35.

A new book about Swindon does not put the town's name in its title. Is this significant? Joint author Martin Boddy describes recent research into Swindon's growth and considers the issues for further town expansion on page 4.

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Is cable chaos on the way? Every street in Swindon is to be dug up to lay cable TV over the next two years. Residents living in West Swindon residents during the mid-1980s will remember what happened last time. But technology has caught up. It could be a different story. See page 39.

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

High expectations for education dashed as windfall cash dwindles Headteachers at Swindon schools believe the public has been misled into thinking an extra £3.4 million being made available to Swindon Council by the government will be spent on improved education. They say the extra cash has been eaten away to meet last year's £600,000 overspend, and another £1 million will be lost because the government continues to give a higher level of funding to Grant Maintained Schools which opted out of local authority control under the previous regime. The growth in pupil numbers and Swindon Council's need to spend more money on its education advisory service to meet the requirements of the new Education Bill also means less money going into schools. Local authority secondary schools have been allocated an extra 2%, but with inflation at over 2.5% and a teachers' pay rise of

2.6% to be met, heads predict higher class sizes. Hreod Parkway headteacher Andrew Fleet said everybody should be concerned. "The general public has been given the impression that there is a significant increase in the money going into education. The situation is very worrying. The government is demanding higher standards but with schools not able to meet the teachers pay rise and more children coming into the system, we're going to see a higher ratio of pupils to teachers." Hreod will accomodate an extra 66 children in September which will mean recruiting more teachers or expanding class sizes.

Mechanics Trust to try again

AiunNMpga$ Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook,Swindon SN5 8PQ Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com Internet: www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Copy date for April edition: 14 March Published: 28 March Copy for May: 11 April

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Editorial: Roger Ogle Centre and, in fact, won acompetition Publisher/Editor to name the leisure centre in 1984. It $ Apple Macintosh design & layout commenced distribution in North Swindon in January 1994." Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. 10 ADVERTISE IN lilt LINK, GALL (Ul /93) V/ZZVZ

At Greendown School,where 25 more year 7 children are expected, headteacher Ian Matthews was more forceful in his criticism. "It is a travesty that this government continues to give Grant Maintained Schools more money than local authority schools. The LEA can't be blamed for not having enough money, but they cannot claim there is sufficient money to cover teacher's salaries. The cash is indequate and schools will struggle to raise standards." Primary schools will be in an even more desperate position as they receive less money per pupil. Keith Burke, head of Shaw Ridge School, said, "our numbers keep going up and with the extra demands the government puts on us, there is no extra cash available. Last year we were underfunded; this year we're not getting enough to cover the pay rise. "The only way we can make savings is to appoint younger, less experienced teachers if staff leave. "It is an absolute scandal that Grant Maintained Schools continue to get more for doing the same job."

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4 The Link Magazine • March 1998

Swindon's future: the pressure for continued expansion Bristol University Professor, Martin Boddy, with co-authors Christine Lambert and Dawn Snape have recently published City for the 21st Century? a major study charting Swindon's post-war development. Here, Martin Boddy identifies the pressures which may well force a further wave of town expansion and asks whether this provides the opportunity for Swindon to become truly a city for the 21st century. ing community facilities and en- used up, the Borough Council desuring the creation of a high qual- cided enough was enough. Unity environment for the town's ex- convinced of the benefits of future panding population. Frequently growth, it decided on a strategy of this was in the face of opposition 'consolidation' and set its face Development first in Parks, from the County Council and cen- against further expansion beyond Walcot, Eldene and Liden, then tral government who wanted to what was already in the pipeline West Swindon, and now the Northmeaning, essentially, beyond comlimit new growth. ern expansion have brought both pletion of the northern expansion. physical expansion and major The mid-1980s, however, was a major turning point. Increasingly Recently the news has been full of growth in population. frustrated by financial pressures the debate about the massive preSwindon's history has been one of and with its own stock of land dicted increase in the numbers of growth and expansion - even the now 'historic railway village was Newfamilies, new housing: newcomers to the northern development, from left, once 'New Swindon' built on green Julia and Sarah Beck, Karen, Jack and Abbie Fawcett, Julie and Thomas fields to house the workforce for Williams take a stroll on St Andrew's Ridge Brunel's rail engineering works the expanding, high technology industry of its era. Swindon's post-war growth has been nothing short of remarkable: new housing, community and leisure facilities, new employers.

Plans drawn up in the late 1960s by the Borough Council, the County Council and Greater London Council saw Swindon as a city of a quarter a million inhabitants by the Millennium. Growth since then has been spectacular - if not quite on the scale originally planned. The Borough Council itself played a key role in the development of new estates, provid-

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The northern expansion still has a long way to go. But the writing is on the wall. Major expansion whether east of the A419 or south between the town and the M4 does now seem to be inevitable, it is only a question of when. So what are the choices? The Borough Council could try and resist, to hold the line against further development. This would be a high-risk strategy. The danger would be that development would be forced on the town anyway, and non-co-operation would give the Borough little say over the direction this took or the quality of the outcome.

It could, on the other hand, acknowledge the inevitable -but aim to harness further expansion in order to secure maximum benefit to the town's existing residents. It could do everything possible to ensure well planned, architecturally excellent development, with good community facilities households over the next twenty and, as in earlier phases of develyears or so, where they are going opment, a high quality living envito live, the threat to the countryronment. side and the greenbelt. The government is predicting that we will It would need local consultation need, nationally, homes for at least and would mean the Borough Council working in partnership a further 4.4 million households. with central government, develGiven where people are keen to opers and other, local interests. It live and businesses to invest, presmight mean the Council using part sures for growth in the South West at least of the land in the 'front are particularly strong. The region garden' inherited from the County also has less in the way of so called Council. 'brownfield'sites, sites which have already been developed for, say, It would also mean the town takindustry, which provide opportu- ing control of its own future and nities now for housing develop- developing a new vision for Swinment. Swindon itself lost a major don, an inspirational plan for Swinopportunity with the GWR site don's development over the next which would have been ideal for 20 to 25 years of the sort that guided an urban-village type of develop- development from the early 1970s on. ment.

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will take time. The town is not about to be swamped by new hous-

Greenfield housing development Potentially this would provide the on a significant scale is, therefore, basis for Swindon to make the traninevitable. Swindon itself, after sition from a rather awkwardlythe latest decisions on the new sized town to become truly a city Wiltshire Structure Plan, is cur- for the 21st century, with the forrently being expected to find sites mal status and recognition, the selffor a further 8,500 or so houses on belief and the quality of urban entop of the 10,000 already in the vironment which that implies. pipeline in the northern expansion. • Cityforthe2lstCentury?isavailAnd while Wiltshire and Swindon able direct from Biblios, Star Road, can argue over the figures, neigh- Partridge Green, West Sussex, bouring counties such as Glouces- RH13 8LD, tel 01403 710851 price tershire are no keener to see their £16.95 including post and packown share of growth increased. It ing, or locally from Waterstones.

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Family project gets social services cut The Freshbrook based West Swin- lief of stress. don Family Project has seen its Over 4,500 people used the grant from Swindon Council's project last year, attending groups social services committee reduced or seeking advice in some way. by ÂŁ5,000 to ÂŁ45,000. Last year the The house' as it is locally known grant remained static with no al- also provides space for an after I". lowance for inflation. The Project, which employs one full term worker, three part time staff and sessional creche workers, supports families across West Swindon, at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook and in other venues. The aim is to work with families on the causes, prevention and re-

Piano player needed Freshbrook School does not have enough piano playing teachers and is looking for someone who can Project worker Mark Thomas, centre, help from time to time. with management committee chair To discuss times and payment, Simon Harlow and caretaker Ivy call Mave Perry on 872800. Armstrong outside the 'house'

Residents to meet council off icers

The Freshbrook Village Group holds a quarterly open meeting with Swindon Council officers on Monday 23 March, 7.30pm. All residents of Freshbrook and Grange Park are invited to attend and express their viewpoints.

Mum ready to run Windmill Hill School mum Parmijt Banga will be running the London Marathon on 26 April in aid of school funds.

A runner for 15 years, Parmjit is doing the London for the first time after three rejections. An application from her husband Malkit was turned down. "This will be my first and last attempt," she said. "Many people want to take part and I'm happy to have one go." Parents will be approached for sponsorship after half term. Readers who would like to support Parmjit are asked to write to Windmill Hill Primary School, Uxbridge Road, Freshbrook stating offers.

This glue,

school club, a lone parent group, a life skills class and a parenting group. It is the only place in the area where people can gain welfare benefits advice. Project worker Mark Thomas said, "the cut backs mean a review of all aspects of our work. We have already reduced administrative hours and changed the job of a project worker to spend more time running the house. We will have to direct greater effort towards making grant applications to charitable bodies to support our work."

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New school plans affected by traffic, pylons and community spirit Numbers of primary school age children in North Swindon means more places will be required by September 2000. On 26 March Swindon Council's Education Committee will consider whether to expand Haydon Leigh School or to build a second school in Abbey Meads, on Elstree Way. A public meeting in the Haydon Centre on 4 February debated the issues bearing on the decision. Haydon Leigh School governors are very keen for their school to grow to 420 children. However, many people said the traffic congestion before and after school made expansion unwise. Speaking on behalf of elderly residents of Haydon Court, next to the school, Roy Gobey called for consideration of the wider community. "Elderly people need to be heard. There are too many cars parked in too small an area. We are very worried that a serious accident will take place."

Parents are unable to drive into the school grounds as the gates are kept shut following critical comments on child safety in a recent excellent Ofsted report. The presence of high voltage power lines adjacent to the Elstree Way site was commented on by a few people attending the meeting, but was not regarded as a problem.

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Swindon Council education officer Norrie Porter addressing the public meeting. Coun Kelvin King and Ian Dobie on the right Abbey Meads resident Bill Morris suggested that the Elstree Way site be developed and the land adjacent to Haydon Leigh School on Whitfield Way be kept for future expansion needs. Following the meeting, Abbey Meads community association chairman Ian Dobie said, "Haydon Leigh is an excellent school, but a community like Abbey Meads needs local schools for its development. A smaller neighbourhood school would provide this important focus for parents." Julie Stilwell, who lives close to the Elstree Way site, said the pylons closeby are not an issue. "Some residents have had independent surveys carried out which show there is no risk. "I would love the school to be built locally. Some people have lived in the lower part of Abbey Meads for nearly three years and there were few facilities until the temporary community centre and doctor's surgery were built re-

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Roses to show A video on the delights to come from roses during the summer will be shown at the Haydon Wick and District Garden Society's monthly meeting on 24 March. On 28 April, Mike Salter will talk about poisonous plants in the garden and on 26 May, John Ball will talk about his work to turn Swindon into Europe's butterfly capital, as described in last month's Link. Meetings start at 7.30pm in the Haydon Centre. To find out more about the society, call the secretary Jackie Hilbourne on 497396. Haydon Wick Bowls Club

RACE NIGHT Saturday 14 March, 7.30pm

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"Some people feel misled by house developers who promised a lot. It's been a long time coming. A school which you can walk to and meet other parents would create the sense of community we need."

ABBEY MEADS

Further growth might be held up Environmentalists are welcoming a decision by the Government to reconsider whether there should be an environmental impact assessment of building a total of 10,000 houses in North Swindon. The Conservative Government did not require an assessment for the first phase of 4,000 homes, but the start of the 6,000 house 'Haydon 3' development, to the west of Lady Lane, could now be delayed

No interest in playgroup yet A meeting on 10 February to discuss setting up an Abbey Meads playgroup decided there were too few people available to start one.

Eighteen mothers came together dler groups, or are involved in to discuss the idea but discovered playgroups elsewhere. Abbey Meads minister Deaconthat most were already too committed to running parent and tod- ess Maureen Spinks said a playgroup requires a lot of voluntary Environment Minister Michael anybody decide that a further commitment to set up a steering Howard decided in 1992 that the 10,000 houses would not have sigcommittee. "There's a definite need Sale helps guide proposed development would not nificant impact on the environfor a group, but it can't happen be likely to have significant effects ment? We welcome the decision down Mexico Way unless people come forward." on the environment by virtue of which will require an assessment factors such as its nature, size of on the wildlife in the Haydon 3 For newcomers location.' area, the amount of traffic it will Mums with babies and small chilNow the Government Office for create and the pressure it puts on dren might be feeling a bit lost in the South West has declared a pre- Swindon's resources." North Swindon, especially if they She added that she hoped that liminary view that the present have just arrived. Minister 'has had cause to recon- environmental studies will become Well, Parents and Tinys is ideal sider this decision' because of the standard practice for large housfor you. The group meets on Frilikely traffic generation, the detri- ing developments. day, 10am to 11.30am in Church mental effect on the environment, Abbey Meads community assoHouse, 1 Hayward Close, Abbey and the major urbanising effect on ciation chairman Ian Dobie said he Meads. the landscape in a rural location. was worried that any hold up in Give Dss. Maureen Spinks a call A delighted Jean Saunders of house building would delay comSwindon Friends of the Earth said munity facilities. "The number of Amy Phillippo of Garson Road, on 706558, or just turn up for a the earlier decision had been houses built determines when land Abbey Meads, above, is holding a welcome cup of coffee. wrong. "We demanded an envi- for a secondary school is released table top sale on Saturday 14 ronmental study in 1992 and were and when the developers are re- March 10am - 12 noon at Abbey Meads community centre, Elstree bitterly disappointed. How could quired to build a sports hall." Way to raise funds so that she can take part in an international guides rally in Mexico in April. Greendown School student Specialists in PVCU, Work on installing play equipment at three sites on St Andrews Ridge started on 17 February and will be completed by 1 April Amy, 15, a member of the Mannwindows, doors and according to Haydon Development Company engineers Trench Far- ington Ranger Unit at St Peter's conservatories, Church, Westlea and formerly a row. member of 2nd Freshbrook also carpentry, fencing, The fully landscapedsites - next Guides,was selected last year to patios, floor tiling. to the Bovis site at The Crescent, take part in the two week gatherbetween the Bryant and Bloor 22 Ravens Walk ing at the World Guide Centre at Homes developments, and next to Our Cabana. Wootton Bassett the Charles Wilson site - will have Amy would welcome support separate facilities for toddlers and Telephone: from buyers in her bid to raise for older children. The last of these 01793 848177 £1,300. Tables can also be hired at sites will also have a fenced £5. Call 721535 to book. or 01793 770596 kickabout area with goal walls and basketball nets. Half term play fun The Octobus play bus visited St Andrew's Ridge for a morning half fix ° term craft activity and kite making on 17 February.

Play areas to be ready for Easter

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Chess players keep getting better Westlea School's chess players swept the board on 31 January at the English primary schools zonal competition by winning the under 9s and under 11s sections, to reach the semi -finals in June. The school, which had its first "Last year we received a silver county player selected three years award for coming in the top six at ago now has five of the six players the semi-final. This year we are in the under 11is and three in the going for a gold which means corning first and second in the regional under 9s teams. Teacher Sue Anderson credited semi-finals and qualifies us for the the youngsters with the success. primary school finals." "I only teach them the basics, they Most of the under 11s team are teach each other the advanced still ten years old and will be availmoves," she said, able next year. Rising up the rankings, Westlea chess players with teacher Sue Anderson, rear from left, Daniel Bissex, Robbie Dams, Chris Carlton, Simon Berrie, Danny White, Craig Roberts, Scott Burden. Front Karl Cook, Aiden Glennie, Robbie White, Oliver King

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Every morning thirty children leave their houses calmly to attend Swindon's only pre-school breakfast club in the Sunshine Room at Westlea School. Now six years old, the Westlea After School Club is proving an absolute necessity for working parents. Children receive care before and after school five days a week and they love it. Supervisor Cherry Hobbs said, "the club is brilliant because it caters for so many families. Children just have to get out of bed, brush their teeth, get dressed and leave the house without any stress. "Parents are able to go to work without worries and the children

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Ready to start the day, Cherry Hobbs, centre, with children at the Westlea After School breakfast club.

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Bucking the music trend at Brook Field Music in Swindon largely survives through the efforts of volunteers who run choral societies and orchestras and primary school music may be declining drastically across the country; but not at Brook Field School which has its own brass band. Currently 40 children take mu- Working with music coordinator flood, who is the musical director school band which regularly plays sic lessons in guitar, violin, wood- Jeanette Miller over the last three of Swindon's Pegasus brass band for parents at concerts and drama wind and brass instruments. years, brass teacher John Winter- has built up a thriving 25 strong productions, and has also perHappy entertainers, rear from left, John Winterflood, Bradley Cushion, Shane Rogers, James Boswell, Thomas Ford, formed to church fetes. "The children work hard and Emma Kimber, Brook Field teacher Jeanette Miller. Middle row, Becky Halliday, Matthew Romain, Lizzie Archer, we now have some very talented Maxine Bell, Sarah Blackford, Krita North, Sian Fuller, Joanne Phelan. Front, Robert and Laura Marsden, Holly players, with younger ones gainPullen, Kristian Rejek, Jason Puffett, Johanna Griffiths ing experience so they can join the band when they are ready," said John. "Some already play with the Swindon School of Brass and I teach eight ex-Brook Field pupils at Greendown where I hope we can start a brass band soon."

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`Family' gathering to say goodbye The residents of George Tweed Gardens group dwelling will be saying a fond farewell to their first and so far only warden Joan MA Bauld, and her husband Bob, at a buffet tea party on 5 March. Joan took up her appointment 8 years ago before the building opened. Swindon born and bred, she lived in Dean Street, close to the GWR factory where her grandfather and father worked. Joan spent 12 years 'inside' as an office worker, starting a few months before GWR was nationalised. "I've reached retirement age and "I'm looking forward to a bit of it's time to move on," said Joan. "Being a warden is quite demand- time to myself, reading, gardening ing as I've made the job my life. and flower arranging, and seeing The 70 residents are like a family. more of my grandchildren."

TOOTH ILL

Farm may get new lease of life The future of the Toothill Farm Centre on Bodiam Drive is being actively considered again. Over twenty residents attended a meeting on 11 February called by local councillor Dave Cox to discuss how use of the farm youth club can be expanded. The club building, or cow shed, is used on two evenings a week for a youth club and the cub scouts and the external walls are used a 'legal' site for graffiti artists. The shed housed cows until twenty years ago and several projects since have upgraded it for use by youth groups. "I was pleased by the interest in further development at the farm," said Dave Cox. "It is a resource for the community which we should not allow to deteriorate. Young people need somewhere to gather. "There was a lot of enthusiasm; people want to see something happen. The council has no cash, so we will have to look towards selfhelp and lottery funding." Another meeting to discuss ideas for the farm is being planned. Leaflets will be distributed to houses near the site. For more information, contact Coun. Dave Cox on 615005, or Jane Kirk on 877983.

ovtsi

Pizzas were on the menu when the 1st Toothill Scouts Beavers visited Pizza Hut on 10 February as part of two projects on Italy and healthy eating. The youngsters were shown round the kitchens and Pizza Hut staff told them what it is like to work in the restaurant. The group, which meets on Tuesday evenings at Toothill Church, is always on the look out for adult leade rs. If you can help, call Ann Haines on 876775.

Toothill's private motor museum When keen model car collector John Wilmot returned to Swindon three years ago, he decided to display his collection by turning his home into a miniature museum.

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After all he lives in the right road - Beaulieu Close, which is named after the village where Lord Montague's National Motor Museum in Hampshire is situated. Although he's been collecting since 1970, John has focussed his attention on Ferrari for the last few years and has become a connoiseur of the marque. He has a model of every racing and road going Ferrari ever made. "I don't collect the models for their value, I'm more interested in what they represent," said John. "Each car Ferrari has made has so much history attached to it; they're

just so full of symbolism, and I enjoy the research almost as much as the collecting." Putting the collection together has required detective work to track down the right model. John has also had to adapt kits to fill gaps in the range. "I'm a bit of a perfectionist and only want exact replicas. I suppose you could call me an eccentric, but I think I've stopped short of becoming obsessive. "Before coming back to Swindon, the models used to fill boxes around the house. It's been good to display them in one place."

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Credit broker fees of up to 1% on the advance may be charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied is 6.7% (70% APR) for one year. APR Is variable. Rates may vary. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons 18 years of age or over. Subject to status. Subject to our current lending criteria. A 2% reduction applied to the van able base mortgage rate, currently 8.7%. Those applicants benefitting from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within four years from the date of completion will be charged an additional six months interest. This charge will be reimbursed If a now mortgage is then taken out with the Society. Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers. applying torus endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year temit (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 May1998 secured against a property being purchased for £55.000. 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tax of £254.05. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable £146,111. Calculated to include valuation tee £155 and arrangement tee of £100. This calculation Is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the tens of the loan. Maximum loan El 50.000. The 6 7%a rate applies to loans up to and including 95% of the purchase pace or valuation, whichever is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable for one year, after which the then current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 70% the Society will require additional security. This is usually in the term of a Risk Charge.

REM EMBER: YOUR HOME 15 AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTRER LOAN SECURED ON IT

RECREATION

Ready for a bigger splash

New club for super-flexible

gymnasts A new activity for girls who have that extra bit of bendiness in their bodies has been established by the Swindon School of Gymnastics.

Swimmers can look forward to the reopening of the Link Centre pool which has been closed since the beginning of Janua ry . After 13 years of use, major re medial work was necessary to re0 D Y (0 N D ITI 0 N N G pair the pool tank and tiling. The changing rooms have had Fresh brook School, new ceilings installed, and an air Willows Hall. handling unit on the roof has been 7pm to 8pm, replaced. Mondays and Link Centre predicts the pool on Wednesdays will reopen in the week beginning it's LEGS, BUMS 9 March, subject to the contractors AND TUMS completing all necessary works. Call into Link Centre to confirm with Liz (RSA-ACE) the reopening date, or telephone

Mp MOV0

Rhythm gymnastic sessions flexibility as there are lots of splits started in the autumn and four and otherextreme poses to be done. youngsters have already been ac- The club meets on Friday evecepted into the South West Eng- nings from 7.45pm at Greendown land squad. Coached by former School, Grange Park and youngGreat Britain Olympic squad gym- sters who would like to try out are nasts Michelle and Kathryn Smith, welcome to take part. Call Wendy the girls are preparing for their Payne on 520169 to register befirst ever regional competitions on forehand. 8 and 12 March. The Swindon School of G y mThe gymnasts use apparatus like nastics is also interested in meetribbons, balls and battons to em- ing adults with ballet or gymnasphasise their movements which tic experience to assist with coachinclude many ballet steps. Girls ing. Call Kathryn Smith on 431484 have to capable of developing great if you can help. Showing how to stretch, the rhythm gymnasts, from left, Becky Jose,Katie Kerrigan, Kate Zamitt. Front, Rachel Mak

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Team displays Roman backing An adults' football team has received support from local tile specialists Caesar Ceramics at the Orbit Centre, in Ashworth Road, off the Great Western Way. Based at Greendown School, and nets. West Swindon's Football Club The team is currently second in have been playing this season in Division 4 of the Skurrey's Wiltthe bright yellow and green col- shire County League and with ours of the tile company, which games in hand, hope to secure proalso supplied training tops, balls motion. Pictured centre, West Swindon FC manager Andy Smith and Paul Shaw, proprietor of Caesar Ceramics, with players, from left, Kenny Campbell, Lee

RECREATION

Charity runner looks for sponsors Colin Child, from Alnwick, Toothill, will be running the London Marathon in aid of the Swindon branch of the National Osteoporosis Society which is raising money for a bone scanner at PMH. The hardy 57 year old has run London twice before and has also competed in a couple of forty mile cross country runs. '} s To offer sponsorship, call Colin on

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• Colin is a member of Swindon Striders, a road running club which meets at Link Centre on Friday evenmgs. Parmjit Banga, pictured on page 5, who will also be running the London, is a member. To find out more about the Striders, call Colin.

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Coach approval

Twenty-five marathon man Swindon Council recreation officer Toothill Ward councillor Dave Cox Nikki Green is carrying out a sports is offering help with last minute coach audit in response to recent marathon training. As a qualified problems of unsuitable coaches. If you are qualified in any sport AAA coach, he can help fine tune and want to be registered on a training for a comfortable run. Dave Cox can be contacted on database of approved coaches, call 615005.

her on 511033.

Your chance to become Robin Hood Supermarine Bowmen don't issue green tights and a feather for your cap, but they can teach you how to use a bow and arrow properly. Based at Supermarine Sports and Social Club, South Marston, the bowmen are running a six week course run by a fully qualified coach on Thursdays, starting on 9 April, at 7pm. To try a sport that really hits the target, call Peter Hands on 538278.

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RECREATION

Loser friendly consultants Monday: 6.00pm & 8.00pm St John's Church, Haydon Wick. Nicole, 613923 Tuesday: 9.30am Even Swindon Community Centre, Jennings Street, Rodbourne. Maxine, 612817 Tuesday: 9.30am Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. Jenny, 613423 Tuesday: 6.00pm Wootton Bassett, Civic Centre, Station Road. Ann,882808

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Hockey players near to England honours The talents of a seventeen year

old West Swindon hockey player have only recently been noticed, and almost by mistake. Swindon Hockey Club player Charlie Rutherford, below, from Freshbrook, was asked by a coach from a rival club if he had been put forward for a regional trial. He had not been given the chance and was immediately invited to train with the West of England under 21 squad in January. Luckily there was enough time to attend the last of the year's un-

Sin and Slim!

WORKOUT AND SLIM DOWN! Combine a sensible low-fat eating plan with exercise classes in Vest Swindon and Wootton Bassett. Contact Wendy on 01793 877750 for details. ibership fee £6. Class fee £3.95 Booking advisable

der 17s trials in February and he was immediately selected to join the West of England squad. Charlie has been playing since he was ten years old, taking his inspiration from his uncle Sudesh Nayar, a former captain for Swindon Hockey Club. He is a regular player for the league leading club which is coached by Great Britain goalkeeper Simon Mason. "I'm really pleased to get into the under 17s squad," said Charlie. "It would be really amazing to work my way up to international or Olympic level."

Kelly Hillier-Bowden from Shaw, above, was the only Wiltshire girl to attend a Na ti onal Development Day for under 14s on 22 February at Milton Keynes. The day, run by the Na ti onal Hockey Association, brought together players showing promise, to join a coaching programme. Greendown student Kelly is goal keeper for Swindon Ladies adults team and is a member of the Wiltshire and the Western Counties under 14s squads.

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TUESDAY The Total Body Workout with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7.30pm to 8.30pm WEDNESDAY Beginners with Lee Sports Hall, Greendown School, Grange Park. 7pm to 8pm. Carol's Body Blitz

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AT YOUR LIBRARY

Easter is but round the corner

TREVOR WYSE

An early taste of spring in February and suddenly the Easter holidays are just a few weeks away, writes librarian Vicki Moore.

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For those of you with children who will be staying in Swindon, make the most of your time by joining in Swindon Borough libraries holiday activities. The theme this year is baby animals and there are story times, craft activities and competitions taking place throughout the holidays. The competition is a word search based on the book and movie Matilda by Roald Dahl. This is aimed at seven to eleven year olds. Prizes include posters and a video of the movie. For the younger age group, there is a colouring competition. Pick up an entry form from your local library.

New Books in March

Tuesday 7th April, 11 am - 12noon (approx.), Wroughton library is the venue for crafts and stories. Thursday 9th April 2.30pm 3.30pm (approx.), Moredon library offer an exciting storytrail activity, including crafts. Friday 17th April 10.30am 11.30am (approx.), West Swindon library offers crafts, stories, singing and rhymes for the under 8's. Come along and join the fun. Also coming soon is the Swindon Festival of Literature between 1 and 10 May. Your local library will shortly have a literary brainteaser of a quiz available.

Primary schools on

Catherine Cookson The solace of sin. Set in the 1970's about a strong independent woman whose life is transformed by new surroundings and acquaintances. Joan Jonker Walking my baby back home. Post-war Liverpool saga following the fortunes of young working-class widow Dot Baker. Leo Kessler Death's eagle. 1940 German troops set off for Norway, in a race against British ski troops, Norwegian partisans and terrible weather, they head for Narvik. James Patterson Black market. A heart-stopping race against time to prevent the destruction of Wall Street. Joanna Trollope Other people's chil. yi. dren. Exploring the myths, realities and difficulties of dealing with present and past relationships, and above all other people's children. Tim Noble Barbara Vine The chimney-sweeper's boy. All is not what it seems Following triumphant producwhen a biographer discovers se- tions in the last 15 months of Shakecrets about her famous novelist speare's a Midsummer Night's father. Dream with Westlea School, the Egyptian creation myths with Freshbrook School and an original play about the St John family of Lydiard Park with Brook Field, Tim is now writing another play. Called The Hero's Journey, the The Lydiards Flower and Produce Society, by popular demand, is work will focus on the ancient producing a sequel to its highly Greek epic of Ulysses Odyssey, successful anthology of weird, and the warrior god's ten year triwonderful and poignant true sto- als and tribulations as he tries to return home after the siege of Troy. ries of Lydiard Life. Known for his fierce direction to The first edition sold out quickly, but copies are available in librar- get the best out his young actors ies. Some of the stories can be read and actresses, Tim will be preparon the swindonlink internet site ing the children to perform for www.i-way.co.uk/ —swindonlink parents and other West Swindon Anyone living locally with a primary schools in July. story to tell about the village, from • Over 600 children from all of one paragraph to five pages, is West Swindon's primary schools invited to send it as soon as possi- will be attending performances of ble to: Christine Saunders, Editor, The Hare and the Tortoise preLydiard Life, Greensend, Lydiard sented by Swindon's Sixth Sense Green, Lydiard Millicent, Swin- Theatre Company at Greendown don SN5 9LP. School on 2 and 4 March.

Any old Lydiard stories?

Activities in libraries include children's author Lisa Bruce who will talk about writing stories for children. Greendown School students will again be making one of their excellent poetry presentations, storytellers will stretch the imagination of young and old and we plan much, much more. For more information, and the full programme of events, contact West Swindon library on Swindon 871444, or contact your local

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LETTER FROM WESTMINSTER MP calls for a fairer deal for Swindon

Swindon North MP Michael Wills explains why Swindon Council has had to cut its spending yet again. How much a council can raise and spend from the council tax is largely determined by central government and successive governments have tried to keep down local authority spending. The new Labour government is still trying to put right the financial irresponsibility of the last Conservative government which doubled the national debt in five years. Nevertheless, I have been lobbying the Government to make changes. And this year Swindon did far better than in previous years in getting 6% more than last year, better than almost every other local authority. There have been some real gains, like the ÂŁ3.7 million of new money for education and more money to extend a much needed and highly valued shopmobility scheme. And rightly so. When Swindon became a unitary authority last year, taking more control over its own affairs, it was always going to put strong transitional pressures on resources. But instead of listening to the council about this and responding to their arguments, the previous government simply ignored them. New unitary authorities like Swindon were allowed the lowest increased in spending limits of any class of authority. By comparison the Shire Districts were allowed nine times more. This year's greater than average increase shows that the Labour government has started listening

to Swindon. Even so, the Council was unable to avoid making some painful decisions. So we need to keep arguing for Swindon to get a fairer deal. I welcome the Government's determination to end crude and universal rate capping and I hope this will allow Swindon Council more flexibility and control over its finances. I have also been urging the Government to give Swindon more control over our business rates. The town has been very successful in extending its business base. As a result we raise nearly ÂŁ70 million from this rate. But we get back only two-thirds of this amount, which is again sending the wrong signals. Swindon is fortunate but it has made its own luck. It was created on the back of Brunei's great railways works. When that industry began to decline, Swindon could

easily have declined too, like so many other former one industry towns. That it did not is largely due to the vision and imagination of a council that, over many years, planned for a new future. It bought land, targeted growth industries and attracted businesses. Everyone understands the need for redistribution, but if Swindon was able to retain even a small additional percentage of what it raises from the business rate, it would be able to direct much more help to the parts of the town that have not been able to share in the general prosperity. It would also send a potent message about the rewards of virtue and set an example to other local authorities. Swindon has succeeded through its own efforts. We should see more of the rewards.

Have a say Swindon Council wants your views on its draft three year plan designed to take the borough into the next Millenium. The aim is to give a firm idea of how to make the town a better place to live, work in and visit. Copies of the summary and full plan are available in libraries, or from main council offices. The plan is to be finalised on 1 April and comments should be sent to Cliff Garland at the borough's policy unit by 23 March.

Local candidates The West Swindon Labour Party candidates for the local government elections in May will be: Richard Young, who presently represents Central Ward, will run for the Toothill ward (includes Westlea, Shaw and Roughmoor). Chris Eley was selected for Freshbrook ward which includes Grange Park. Nick Martin will contest Toothill for the Conservatives.

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Superstore Newsagents Electrical Retailers Motor Accessories Curtains & Bedding Familywear

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/- swindonlink

Unlocking potential in teachers and students

Exams? Don't panic!

A former Olympic champion is working with Hreod Parkway School to raise levels of motivation, The GCSEs are just a few weeks away and Hreod Parkway School confidence and ability using sports and business management coaching skills. and Quantum Training are offerIn an exclusive interview with the curriculum but their training ing the Lightning Learning ProThe Link, David Hemery, 400 medoesnotincludemuchaboutstrat- gramme during the Easter holiegies for approaching the task." tre gold medallist at the 1968 days to students from any school. Mexico Olympics, said that Hreod In the autumn Hreod's 54 teachWorking in a lively, confidence Parkway headteacher Andrew ers took part in a day course and building way with a team of tuFleet had approached him last year parents and governors took part in tors, participants will receive inwith primary school colleague an evening discussion. tensive guidance on revision, time In March a pilot project will be management, and the chance to Anthea Hilson, headteacher of launched with year 10 students pick up useful exam preparation Moredon Infants, after a presentataking part in eight enrichment techniques. tion to the Swindon Education days before the end of the year. Business Partnership about new Don't drop those marks that These will develop their sense of could make all the difference to approaches to education. ; ' personal responsibility, leadership your future. Call the Lightning "For the last 10 years I have been ability,confidenceinpublicspeak- Learning Administrator on 521335. running courses for managers in ing and set them challenging probbusiness which help them unlock , lem solving tasks. the potential in their staff," sai Andrew Fleet and David Hemery " Much of what we are developDavid. "As a former teacher, I am interested to explore how similar Andrew Fleet said that whilst ing is awareness of life skills - how methods can be applied in educa- teachers question children daily, people relate to each other by listion, to draw out abilities and skills the focus is often just facts, rather tening, contributing, taking and which traditional teaching and the than the issues surrounding them. giving, encouraging people to do national curriculum do not cover. "The courses do not replace facts, better," said David. "The bottom line is improved "The coaching courses encour- or direct teaching. It's a powerful age teachers, students and alsopar- complimentary strategy which performance by participants, ents, to develop questioning skills makes different demands on those whatever their ability - within school and in the next stage of which will help them achieve their involved, goals in different ways." "Teachers learn how to deliver their careers. Self-confident young people who use their minds better will be more employable." The coaching skills project is being funded by business sponThe Swindon WEA Women's WEA has a workshop to explore sors and an educational trust and Branch is organising a hands-on some of the issues about self-im- could be a model which is followed crafts workshop to celebrate In- age through creative exercises and closely on a national level. ternational Women's Day on 7 discussion with other women. Working with tutor Katina NoMarch, 10am - 4pm. It takes place at the Octobus ble, the aim is to help participants Project, Penhill Youth & Commu- move towards a more positive i & Art & GFOR etosses nity Centre, Cricklade Road, Swin- view of themselves. The cost is £13 .80 (women on don. g 'e crotivi grad h i 'e cuD The cost is £13.80 plus £2 for benefit free). For more details, and to book, materials (women on benefit free). On 28 March 10am - 4pm the call 618233. Let the to ' ck sjou in forir eassj tessons to

International Women's Day crafts

pwin. t AGnerican Fotk. A-rt onto kxn crwftekWoocank fw'rics. Grasses are ri.ernt,frin Alnr 5uitxka for art a.9es

Easy way to learn folk art Ever fancied one those attractive but simple folk art pieces in a craft shop or a garden centre? Sue Gardner, right, from Stratton z St Margaret says they are really easy to make and she has set up a studio to teach the techniques. Known as American folk art, or tole art, virtually any surface can be decorated with to achieve a variety of finishes. "Folk art was developed by people to illustrate an idea and to provide simple, pleasing decoration, not perfect copies," said Sue. "It really is an easy craft which anybody can have a go at, and enjoy." Sue's classes are relaxed social gatherings where even the most timid will come away confident in their abilities. She says that after 4 classes, pupils will have three items they will be proud to display. dence will grow. Folk art items "It doesn't matter if you have make delightful, unique gifts, or never painted before; you won't unusual home decoration. have pre-conceived ideas," says To find out more, call Sue Sue. "Have a go and your confi- Gardner on 826788.

For details of classes, ring Sue on Swindon 826788

/O 0

a all Link readers on all framing and arts & crafts products and selected pictures in gallery

Cut out this advert and take it along to Tunleys * All types of framing (trade & retail) * Graphic materials/ art materials * Fun stamps and stencilling * Pictures for sale including original oils, water colours and prints and posters * Specialist limited editions, signed prints including David Shepherd, Sir William Russell-Flint etc

Tunleys, 40-41 Fleet Street, Swindon. Tel: 522152 Est 1880!

18 The Link Magazine • March 1998 Chari ty Hair & Fashion Show in aid of Space & Swindon Womens Refuge

The Swindon Well Woman Centre charity shop in Victoria Road, Old Town

Sunday 15 March, 6.30pm for 7pm De Vere Hotel

WANTED NOW!

Attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Swindon, Maurice & Sheila Fanning

• Donations of good quality clean clothes, bric-a-brac and unwanted gifts • Volunteers to help run the shop. Do you have a few hours to spare? Call Ann Davis on 511064 with offers.

Organised by Partners Hair in association with Limelight, Revival, Bliss, Joe Bloggs and the Boyd School of Irish Dancing Tickets: £5 from Partners and participating businesses

Auction in aid of Trailblazers playscheme and holiday for physically disabled children Saturday 14 March, 7pm St Joseph's Lower School, Queen's Drive, Swindon. Tickets in advance only £2.50, include a ploughman's. Send cheques to 'Trailblazers', enclosing an SAE, to Helen Stroud, 28 Nythe Road, Swindon SN3 4AN.

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Stroll for a good cause West Swindon Lions are organising a sponsored walk for clubs and community org an isations. It takes place over a 2.5 mile route from the Link Centre on Saturday 21 March, from 10.30am. Proceeds from cash raised will be split 50:50 between the group and the Lions, for their community work. For sponsorship forms, call Diane Benson on 872997.

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Students organise Duke's award ceremony Former Olympic sprinter Mike McFarlane, joined VIPs at a presentation evening, on 5 February for young people from Swindon schools who had successfully completed different stages of the Duke of Edinburgh's award.

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MikeMcFarlane, left, is pictured with GNVQ students, Donna Emms, Tim Saunders, James Burnett, Hailey Meredith, and Coun Derique Montaut, chair of Swindon Council's leisure services committee

BSE storage decision date

Seen a photo you want? r^ All pictures in

FRET: SURVEY NO DEPOSIrt'

The Link are taken

in colour, even if they appear in black and white. Copies are available at

£1.50 for 6" x 4" or £4 for 6" x 8." Send a cheque made out to 'West Swindon Publications' to 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ. Specify the month and page the photo appears on, with brief description, and don't forget your name, address and telephone number.

The much delayed Swindon Council meeting on BSE-laden waste being dumped in a Wroughton aircraft hangar overlooking West Swindon, will take place on Monday 9 March, 7pm at the main council offices in Euclid Street, writes John Ball from Grange Park. The meeting is expected to be packed with people passionately opposed to the health hazard that threatens our children's lives. Recent television programmes each Sunday night, have reminded us of the sorry saga of 'mad cow disease'. There are well-documented risks of water table contamination and air-bourne spread of the disease. Councillors were amazed at the attendance at a previous meeting,

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the largest on a single issue in living memory. But some suspect that delays in having the decisive meeting was in the hope that protestors would melt away. Please, give two hours of your time and enjoy your right to attend the council meeting at Euclid Street. Get others there too - it could make all the difference. Contact Peggy Dennison 812041 for more details.

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/—swindonlink

Teenager takes her destiny to the skies A 16 year old whose burning ambition is to be a fighter pilot, has been selected by the Royal Air Force to receive a much sought after flying scholarship. the RAF and am just thrilled that I have been fortunate enough to succeed at the first hurdle." Currently in the sixth form at Ridgeway School, Wroughton studying A levels in English Literature, French, RE/Philosophy and Art, she intends taking English Literature and French to degree level and will join the University Air Squadron. The next step towards achieving her ambition is to apply to the Royal Air Force for a sixth form scholarship, to help finance the remaining flying hours needed for her PPL and more importantly a Cadetship to take her through university. Of Rebecca's achievement thus far her mother said, "she has worked extremely hard and shown great determination. Relatives and friends have been wonderful, offering advice, training and support, we are all very proud of her. Rebecca is very focussed and I shall encourage her all the way to realise her ambition."

Rebecca Stuart of Peatmoor will be away this summer for 18 days, combining ground school training and 20 hours of flying lessons including four and a half hours solo. By the end of the course she will have accumulated half the number of hours required to gain her private pilot's licence (PPL). Rebecca already has four hours in her log book, courtesy of her grandfather (a former flying examiner on fast jets with the RAF and later a training inspector with the CAA) who assessed her on her first training flight when she was only 14. "I've always been passionate about flying and the Royal Air Force," said Rebecca. "I have a stepfather and an uncle who are both serving officers and another uncle who is an auxiliary flight engineer on Hercules at Lyneham. With many RAF friends, some of whom are operating as flying instructors, I know a fair amount about a career in

A chance for more youngsters to go airborne West Swindon has had a detachment of the Air Training Corps for over ten years, convenient for young people living in the area and also in North Swindon. Based at Greendown School, the flight is part of 1244 (Swindon) Squadron located at Upham Road, and meets every Friday from 7pm to 9.30pm. Boys and girls aged 13 to 16 years can join and learn basic skills, map reading, theory of flight and propulsion, navigation and communications. Under 13s are invited to attend flight parades to get an idea of what goes on. The cadets enjoy the opportunity to fly in gliders and small aircraft. Trips to RAF stations are organised for flights in larger aircraft and the excitement of flying aircraft simulators. Being a cadet provides a route for a few lucky individuals to earn flying scholarships. One recent Greendown cadet gained a pilots licence to fly light aircraft. In February, Greendown flight commander Pilot Officer Mike Hall presented Cadet Sergeant Peter Reid, rear, with his Duke of Edinburgh's bronze award and Cadet Brett Taylor with promotion to Corporal and leading cadet

There is a structured advancement programme for cadets, and they can also enter the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. Ex-Greendown cadet warrent officer Helen Woodham from Westlea received her gold award last year and has represented Swindon as the Lord Lieutenant's Cadet at ATC events. Newcomers to the ATC are always welcome to join, or to find out more beforehand, details can be obtained from Pilot Officer Mike Hall on 854804.

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

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New nursery worker at Westlea nursery Headtstarts nursery at the Delta Business Park, Westlea has appointed an experienced worker as its new manager. Jenny Woodman, from Eastleaze, is well known in pre-school circles in Swindon for her practical work and advisory role. She started the Rainbow Playgroup in Freshbrook in 1985, then became an area organiser for the Pre-School Alliance before starting the Oliver Tomkins Under 5s in Toothill. Over the last 8 years Jenny has worked for a number of training companies and carried out preschool consultancy work. She re-

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Award for small business

North Swindon resident Connie Croker was awarded a spe' '' cial commendation at the Wiltshire Business of the Year Jenny Wood man with Headstarts chil- Awards on 18 Februdren,from left, Alex Pollard, Saffron ary in recognition of her outstandRolfe, Megan Earney, Charlotte ing enthusiasm and commitment O'Dell to making her business a success. Started five years ago with £20, and two rails of stock, Wear it Well in Old Town is now Wiltshire's largest good as new dress agency. Connie has battled away to reeducate people into realising that second-hand is not second best. She stocks top high street and designer labels; many of the garments sold on behalf of customer are impulse buys and some have never even been tried on. Only modern garments in absolutely immaculate condition are accepted to be sold on a 50/50 basis. It is quite possible to outfit yourself for a very low price. Road safety showtime "I was so pleased with the comChildren at 12 primary schools mendation," said Connie. "It's brilenjoyed a visit from the BP Living liant to have the recognition." with Traffic Roadshow at the end For choice, value for money and of February. service with an award winning The lively eye-catching safety smile, make a visit to Wear it Well awareness performance visited in North Street, Old Town, close to Toothill and Tregoze Schools on the Prospect Place car park in Old 25 and 26 February. Town. Tel: 695223. centlycompleted anOpenUniversity degree in Early Years Education, qualified for a Certificate of Education and has taken a Diploma in Special Needs Education.

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CHARITY CONCERT

THE LINK MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Choir sings for cancer charity

!en at Lydiard Photographs of Her Majesty's visit to Lydiard House on 7 November go on show in the state rooms from 16 March, until the end of the year. As well as framed pictures of the Queen's arrival, reception and departure, the display will include the Queen's signature in the visitor book and the menu of the meal served in the Lydiard Management Centre which occupies part of the house. A visit to Lydiard House is also an opportunity to view the five hundred year old ancestral home of the St John family, and to learn of the restoration by Swindon Council since itwas acquired bythe borough in 1943. Lydiard House now has the distinction of being visited by both Queen Elizabeth I and Elizabeth II.

Swindon's premier female choir, The Kentwood Choir perform in aid of the East Wilts Community Cancer Care Charityatthe Blunsdon House Hotel on Sunday 5 April. Thanks to the generosity of choir directorSheila Harrod and the management of the Blunsdon House Hotel, who have made the choir and venue available at no charge, all proceeds will go to the charity. East Wilts Community Cancer Care is dedicated to the care of terminally ill people in the Swindon area, providing equipment essential for patient comfort and to ease nursing care. Tickets at £5 are available from the Health Centre, Carfax Street, Swindon. Tel: 486991

New date for am dram production West Swindon based Junction 16 Theatre Group had to reschedule

their production of Henrik Ibsen's powerful drama 'A Doll's House' in the Greendown School drama studio from mid-February to new dates on 6 and 7 March, 7.30pm. The play shocked its first audiences with its radical portrayal of nineteenth century bourgeois societyas Nora, the flawed heroine, wants to escape from the confines of marriage and family. Tickets at£4 (£3 cone.), to include a glass of wine, are available in advance on 882378 or on the door. The Junction 16 players, rear from left, Dave Hews, Chris Reynolds, Anne Wong, Elaine Chaytor, director Ken Kimber. Front, Samantha Harwood, Sarah-Kate

Performers and stories wanted The Tuesday Nighters, a group of amateur actors who work with professional director Liz Rothchild, have received a lottery grant to fund their project Dreaming of the White Horse. The final work will be developed from memories, stories and pictures of the White Horse and Liz Rothchild is keen to gatherthese from readers. She would also like to hearfrom amateur actors interested in contributing their time and talents. To find out more, call Liz on 01367 240508.

Poetry winners selected The West Swindon based Ligden Poetry Society has chosen the winners of its 1997 competition which can be read in the latest edition of its magazine Pulsar. It is available from David Pike on 875941, e mail: david.pike@virgin.net

E DANCE HOUSE lendune Community Centre, Wroughton Saturday 21 March

AVE WHETSTONES RESOLUTION Tickets: £6, Conc. £4 Under 12s £1, Family ticket £15 tickets on door (if not sold out) or send cheque and SAE to The Dance House, 131 Goddard Avenue, Swindon or call 641107

in aid of East Wilts Community Cancer Care Sunday 5th April with The Kentwood Choir Blunsdon House Hotel Tickets £5, from The Health Centre, Carfax St, Swindon (behind the bus station). Tel: 01793 486991

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Until 31 March Exhibition Painted Quilts and Quilted Paintings. Health Hydro, free Exhibition Along These Lines black & white photographs showing the people working on our railway today. GWR Museum, 1 Oam - 5pm, Sun 2pm - 5pm, admission £2.30/ £1.10 Exhibition Stained Glass - A View Through Time. The Galle ry , National Monuments Record Centre, Kemble Drive, Open Wed - Sun, 11 am - 5pm, . Further info tel: 414617 Sunday 1 March Music The Billy Fury Experience Tour. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9.50 Monday 2 March Adult The Ultimate Fantasy Show a night of erotic dance for the ladies. Wyvern, 8pm. £10

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Tuesday 3 March

Ballet Orpheus & Bach with Bite presented by Adonais Ballet Co. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10 Wednesday 4 March Music Anthology of the the Beatles. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9.50 Thursday 5 March to Saturday 7 March Musical Man of La Mancha, an original show presented by M4 Theatre co. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £5 Thursday 5 March Music Philomena Begley & Margo O'Donnell - Ireland's Queen of Country and the girl from Donegal. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9

Monday & Thursday at Westleaze Riding Centre, Mill Lane, Swindon BHS qualified tuition for beginners to

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Friday 6 March - Sunday 8 March Working Weekend Lower Shaw Farm, tel 771080 for details Friday 6 March Comedy Women of a Certain Age. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10 Music Concert by Common-weal School Band & Choir in aid of The Children's Society. Christ Church, Old Town, 7.30pm. £2.50/£1 Saturday 7 March Day course International Womens Day Creative Metals - work with artist and blacksmith Melissa Cole. Lydiard House Stable, 1 Oam - 4pm. £17, to book tel: 614837 Music Voulez Vous - the ultimate Abba experience. Wyvern, 8pm.

£10.50 Sunday 8 March Ramble 10 mile walk from Lydiard Park to Barbu ry Castle (return transport provided). Meet Visitor Centre, 10am, wear stout footwear, bring packed lunch & drinks. £2.50/£1.50. Book in advance on 771419 Monday 9 March to Saturday 14 March Music Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society presents Princess Ida, a love sto ry with a twist. Wyvern, 7.30pm. From £6.50 Wednesday 11 March Family Bread baking, learn how to bake bread with fresh yeast, followed by wholesome lunch. Lower Shaw Farm, 10.30am - 1.30pm. £10, to book tel: 771080

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March overview Thursday 12 March Comedy Johnny Vegas in the The Johnny Vegas Show. A rt s Centre, 8pm. £8 Saturday 14 March Day course Stencilling - try different & unusual techniques. A rt s Centre, 1 Oam - 4pm. £15, to book tel: 614837 Music Day by Day, a celebration of the music of Doris Day, starring Rosemary Squires (below). Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £11

Sunday 15 March Music The Recital Series - Bath Camerata. Arts Centre, 3pm. £7 Music & Dance Diana, The Ultimate Tribute. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £17&E14 Monday 16 March Clairvoyance An Evening with Billy Roberts. Wyvern, 8pm. £7 Tuesday 17 March Music That'll Be The Day - the feel good musical. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50

Drama Look Back in Anger presented by One From The Heart. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £6.50 Wednesday 18 March Fashion & Beauty An evening in aid of The Children's Society in association with Black Cat Clothing. The Marriott Hotel, 7.30pm. £4.50 in advance from 694466 Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta present a programme of Brahms and Beethoven. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £14.50 Thursday 19 March Music A Tribute to Freddie Mercury & Queen. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50 Friday 20 March Music The Sally Barker Group with music spanning the wider edges of folk, acoustic rock and blues. Arts Centre, 8pm. £6 Saturday 21 March Children Make a cut flower basket for Mothering Sunday, all materials provided. Lydiard Park Youth Hostel, 10.30am - 12noon. £5. Book in advance on 466532

Family Old Town Fossil Day, identify your fossils & minerals, craft event for kids (£2). Swindon Museum & Art Galle ry , 2pm - 4pm Family Sixth Sense Theatre Trust present The Hare and The Tortoise, suit ages 3 to 7. Arts Centre, 2.30pm. £4.50 Music Charlie Landsborough in Conce rt . Wyvern, 7.30pm. £12.50

25 Sunday 22 March Music Song from the Shows in aid of Mencap Blue Sky Appeal, sponsored by Arkells. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9 Monday 23 March Music The Music Club presents St Joseph's Upper School A' Level Recitals. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Tuesday 24 March to Thursday 26 March Dance Judith Hockaday School of Dane presents Be our Guest. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £6.50 Wednesday 25 March Family Under 5's Activity Morning seasonal crafts and play for under 5s and their carers, bring a picnic lunch. Lower Shaw Farm, 10am 12.30pm. £5 per family, tel 771080 to book. Family Swindon Storytellers, come and hear stories from near and far. Lower Shaw Farm, 7.30pm. Friday 27 March Music The Pirates of Penzance, The Mayor of Wootton Basse tt presents a Concert for Youth. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £5, tickets available from 13 March Saturday 28 March Day course Garden Sculptures discover treillage, - growing plants, indoor & outdoor, over a withy wood structure. Arts Centre, 10am - 4pm. £15, to book tel: 614837 Comedy An Evening with Lee Evans. Wyvern, 8pm. £14 Monday 30 March Drama Juliette Kapin pe rf orms 2 pieces from Alan Bennett's highly acclaimed Talking Heads. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £9 Tuesday 31 March Drama The Glass Menagerie directed by Brian Blessed. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £10.50

FILM AT THE ARTS CENTRE Wednesday 11 March, 7.45pm Bits and Pieces (15) Shot on location in Rome over 18 months this film recreates the urban reality of many great Italian

classics. Presented by Swindon Film Society Wednesday 18 March, 7.45pm A Self Made Hero (15) An award-winning comedy about a man who invents a Resistance ca-

reer in order to be a success after World War II. Presented by SFS Thursday 19 March, 7.45pm Face (18) An excellent British crime thriller set l in the East End of London, the story revolves around a heist which goes, wrong. £3.50 Tuesday 24 March, 7.45pm Career Girls (18) An acutely observed tale of two former students who meet up for a reunion weekend after 6 years and attempt to recapture their old camaraderie with an 80's soundtrack by The Cure. £3.50

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READ THE LABEL BEFORE YOU BUY- USE PESTICIDES SAFELY. PSI Greenfly Killer contains Pennethrin & Bioallethrin./ PBI slug pellets contains Metaldehyde./ Lexington Evergreen Estr a contains MCPA, Mecoprop & Ferrous Sulphate./ Get off my Gard en contains Methyl Nonyl Ketone./ Vitae Green Up Feed & Weed contains 2,4-D & Dicamba./ Vita, Nippon An t/Crawling Insect Powder contains Permethrin, Aerosol contains Permethrin & Tetramethrin.I Solari, Roundup contains Glyphosate./ Miracle Garden Care Pathclear contains Amitrole, Diquat, Paraquat & Simazine./ Miracle Garden Care Weedol contains Diquat & Paraquat. Products subject to availability. Offer period 1st March 1998 - 30th June 1998. RRP=Recommended Retail Price

Your local Happy Gardener stockist d1®IM TZ)v am ^m

P-W

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Spring has sprung, lambs will be leaping, but make your farm visit soon Lambs will soon be skipping around at Roves Farm, Sevenhampton just two miles north east of Swindon. The farm opens on 7 March, but due to restrictions placed on farmers Rupert and Joanna Burr, it will close for the rest of year from 26 April. So make your visit soon and give them the support they need. Over 800 hundred expectant through the grass. Visitors may Rupert and Joanna Burr cannot throughout 1997, only 10,000 cars invest in a a 40 bed bunkhouse for came to Roves Farm. The councilewes will give birth this spring. even hear the first cuckoo. Roves Farm offers everything school and group use, and im- lors have based their decision on With an average of 20 lambs born daily during March and April. A the visitor needs for a great day proved kitchen facilities. These objections of about 12 households, live birth is almost guaranteed on out: farm animals, lambing, lamb already have planning permission. rather than the 20,000 people who Without the re- visit us annually. We know that feeding, story a visit. turn from this several thousand are Link readers." After watching the lambing and trails, adventure For more information on the investmet, they meeting all the other animals, in- play area, rural cannot afford to problems faced by Roves Farm, cluding kids and piglets, visitors crafts to try and a heat the rest of the talk to the Burrs when you visit can stroll around the easy to fol- tea room. centre using the from llam Wednesdays to SunHowever due low farm trails looking for other renewable energy days inclusive and Bank Holidays signs of spring. The trees will be to objections from available from or call Rupert on 763939. budding and cowslips pushing up 12 households in willows planted the nearby village on the farm over of Sevenhampthe last four years. ton, the Swindon And without Council planning winter income, committee has they will be unimposed restricThe able to employ the tions on the hours All maintenance undertaken top quality local the farm can be teaching staff to Trees lopped • Shrubs pruned used. The coun2,212,3,4,5 work with school cillors believe it is . Turfing yards capacity groups and pronot suitable for a Grass cutting 5 days given to fill skip barn dance and other evening vide countryside interpretation for Planting • Fencing group gatherings. Currently lack visitors. "The planning restrictions have of heating in the barn and visitor Shingle Gardens Freephone centre restricts their use from the been imposed on the grounds of NO JOB TOO SMALL end of May to the end of Septem- traffic generation," said Rupert. 0800 - 387613 "Two years ago 250,000 cars passed ber. Tel: (01793) Tel: 731610 With the most profitable part of through Sevenhampton. No doubt 8am - 8pm their business gone, proprietors this number has increased, yet

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ine • March 1998

The Link

Technicians needed

9 ^fl co rner

REMAP is a national organisation which aims to design and manufacture aids to help people with disabilities try to overcome the many varied difficulties they face, For further information, contact where a commercial alternative Swindon Borough Council is introducing the new 'poop-scoop' Swindon Council officer Garry does not exist or is not suitable. law from 1 March requireing dog Brett on 466094. The Swindon REMAP panel is owners to clear up after their pets. looking for people with technical The 'Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act Appeal to dog owners abilities, whether they be from for1996,' gives councils the power to Haydon Wick Parish Council has mal training, or developed through prosecute owners if their dog fouls received many complaints about interest in DIY or model making. at Argyle f " pavements, backways, playing dog mess on pavements, particu- Volunteers will need access to simGarden Supplies fields (including schools'), parks, larly in alley ways between hous- ple workshop facilities. recreation grounds, play areas, ing areas. It is appealing to owners No medical experience is reArgyle Commercial grass verges, grassed areas in resi- to stop their dogs fouling in public quired as the organisation is adplaces. Centre, off Cirencester dential areas. vised by GPs and occupational Areas of land that are not covtherapists. Way, Swindon ered are agricultural land, woodIf you enjoy a challenge where AT HOME PETS FREE PARKING land which is worked and grass your technical skills are stretched, Worried who will look verges to 40 mph roads. Barry Jeeves of REMAP would like after your pets whilst Owners who do not clean up to hear from you on 494964. after their pet in any area where you're on holiday? the law applies is liable to a maxiAre you ex-RAF Lyneham? Tel: 01793 520827 1 mum Pets At Home penalty of £1,000 if caught. All ex RAF Lyneham personnel could be your an swer are invited to join the RAF Pets At Home is a service Lyneham Old Boys Association which cares for all your pets which meets on the first Thursday (except dogs) in their own of each month, 7.30pm at the RAFA home anywhere in the Club, Bell Vue Road, Swindon. West Swindon area only. i A reunion is currently being orJJNe provide a home visiting service for your ganised for members and their Telephone Sheila Mitchell cat or dog, while you are away or at work. partners. For more details telfor furt her details on ephone the secretary on 728206. Tel: 01 793 - 821040 or 882945 873062

Get ready to remove that poop

THE PET TOREff

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THAMES WOOD VETERINARY CLINICS

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE David Warnes B.V.Sc. M.R.C.V.S. ^^--.ate l Shaw Village Centre Ramleaze Drive, Sh LW it Swindon SN5 9PY `'^

• c

Specialists in Pet Care

Tel: (01793) 881919

OLD TOWN CLINIC 21 Marlborough Road Swindon 542300

Consultations by appointment Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm

^1VErE

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VETERINARY SURGEONS Simon Gower & Associates B.V.Sc., M.R.C.V.S.

77 High Street, Purton Tel: 771869 Office hours: Mon to Fri 8.30am - 7.00pm Sat 8.30am -1.00pm PHONE FOR CONSULTING HOURS All consultations b y annointmel OTHER TIMES AND VISITS BY ARRANGEMENT

Bath Road, Cricklade Tel: 751698 Consulting hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 9.00am - 10.00am; 5.00pm - 7.00pm Tues, Thurs 9.00am - 10.00am Sat 3.00pm - 4.00pm All consultations b y aonointment 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE: TELEPHONE 771869

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See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

The Link Magazine • March 1998

You really are what you eat

QUALIFIED

Jackie Habgood, from Wroughton, describes the benefits to be found in her book The Hay Diet Made Easy Have you noticed how much less efficient people are becoming, how forgetful and easily stressed? Even the fittest person will admit to a health problem these days. You only have to look at the soaring cost of the NHS to know that

BACK PAIN If you are suffering from: -

0 Backache, Leg pain 0 Neck Shoulder, ME Arm Pam chiruO Headache checks & Migraine vadab► 0 Sciatica 0 Sports Injury 0 Whiplash You should consider consulting a Chiropractor

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. Shaw Chiropractic Clinic Shaw Village Centre

Tel: (01793) 887801 Member of the British Chiropractic Association

something is wrong. It is processed food that devastates us. We are part of nature and we pay a heavy price if we forget it. We know the dangers of additives, but we are not nearly so concerned about what is being taken out of our food. Vital ingredients are going missing. Sugar of all kinds tops the list of danger food. Cakes, biscuits and soft drinks are nutrionally deficient. Over the years we develop a growing number of mental and physical symptoms. We get tired and irritable, we can't think straight. Sinking feelings leave us washed out; we get nervous, shaky, panicky. We are plagued by thrush, indigestion, irritable bowel, we catch every bug going - and it's all reversible by a few simple changes in diet! The Hay diet was developed by Dr Hay who was at death's door with high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease. Doctors could do nothing and he was not expected to live. In desperation he turned to naturopathy, which works by giving the body the raw material to do the job and taking away everything which hinders its work. Out went processed food, in came fresh fruit and veg-

GAECH

11T1

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etables, whole grains, fresh meat and fish. His body sorted out its own problems, he recovered in three months and lost 3 stone. Food combining is an idea he adopted later. Starches like potatoes are eaten at different meals from proteins like meat, which solves lots more problems, especially with digestion, but this is not the main focus of the Hay diet. The Hay diet made easy costs £6.99 from any bookshop. Jackie can be contacted on 813493 or at users@zetnet.co.uk/habgood

CHIROPODIST

Mrs Hazel Kenee MSSCh MBChA Registered member of The British Chiropody and Podiatry Association

VISITING PRACTICE Weekdays and Saturday morning by arrangement For appointments phone:

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Advanced Reflexology & Reiki TWO WONDERFUL ANCIENT HEALING THERAPIES For appointments with F.J. Taylor, M.I.I.R. (Regd.), Reiki Master Telephone: (01793) 849914

Angela Cracknell Chiropodist Registered Nurse MSSCh MBChA

Home visits by appointment Telephone: 01793 613334 Answermachine - all calls returned

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ri JThiJWW1fl

30 The Link Magazine • March 199 8

Police send out polite warning to drivers As part of a move to cut road traffic casualties by a third by 2000, Westlea Police are focusing on poor driving writes Inspector Paul Longden.

The majority of accidents and injuries are avoidable. We will focus on local road safety problems and will do our part to keep this area as safe as possible. However drivers must realise that they hold the key to safe driving. We urge people to drive with care, courtesy and consideration. Local road safety problems are addressed by Traffic Sgt Mark Levitt and his team of traffic officers. Recent checks showed that one in 20 drivers or passengers failed to wear a seat belt. During a

Look out for PC Jez Ingram or a colleague keeping a watchful eye on traffic at Mannington Roundabout

recent seat belt campaign, over 350

fixed penalty notices were issued for this offence. Members of the public sometimes feel that the police should have better things to

'WProperty Maintenanc e Painter & Decorator • Specialist Artexi

PC Ingram ticks off a driver for using the bus lane at Mannington

lephone: (01793) 791388 NO NEED TO LIVE WITH HARD WATER CONTACT:

SWINDON 50 FWATER o,l Kinetico Block Salt Water Softeners guarantee soft water 24 hoar

^ 11 /

a day. Only 19" high, non-electric, meter controlled. Rent, lease, purchase. DIY sales & service. Salt delivered. 260 Ferndale Road, Swindon. Tel: 527172

do than issue tickets for not wearing seat belts. However, I would like people to bear in mind that the financial consequences of a serious or fatal road accident is around £1 million and the personal tragedy is beyond measure. Seat belts do save lives and we must enforce this important piece of legislation. Other local road safety initiatives include, the prosecution of motorists for using bus lanes and ignoring red traffic lights at the Mannington roundabout. Members of the public can contact myself, Traffic Sgt Levitt or the Divisional Traffic Manager, Traffic Inspector Steve Kellow at Westlea Police station on 528111.

Protect your vehicle The Crime Prevention Department at Westlea Police station is selling Vehicle'25' Watch stickers for £1. A vehicle displaying the reflective windscreen discs could be stopped if being driven between midnight and 5am under suspicion it has been stolen. It could also be stopped during the day if it is being driven by somebody under 25 years of age. Call into Westlea for your sti cker

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The Link Magazine • March 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink

Award for eager organiser Hard working neighbourhood watch organiser Patty Holt, based at Westlea Police Station has been recognised nationally. Sponsored by ERA security products, the competition sought out neighbourhood watch professionals who were promoting and developing innovative schemes in their areas. Patty missed the first prize of a trip to the USA but was chosen for the second place prize of security products to the value of £200 to be donated to neighbourhood watch schemes. Swindon North crime prevention officer Sgt. Bob Walton paid tribute to Patty's work. "She puts in a lot of extra effort in her desire to serve the community. Patty has tremendous enthusiasm for developing and supporting neighbourhood watch schemes. She thoroughly deserves the recognition." Patty is always keen to hear from people who want to know more about setting up a neighbourhood watch scheme in their road. She

W LLS

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Pa rts of The Link can be read worldwide on the internet where we have a feedback page. Former Freshbrook resident Alison Smythe e-mailed us in February. What a fabulous on-line have a house in Freshbrook and magazine! My home is Swindon, (I are familiar with The Link Magazine. We are due to return to the UK in was also born there), butforthe last 4 years my husband and I have May, but may get relocated to been living in the United Arab Crawley. However many members Emirates, where he works for of my family live in Swindon and li ke to keep in touch with the local Halcrow as a civil engineer. I' m always looking for information news. Keep up the good work, and about "home" and was delighted to come across your web site. We look forward to next month's news.

^ • Dust and polish furniture • Even make your beds!

can be contacted at the crime prevention office at Westlea police station on 528111.

The sea and the navy are the themes for the Swindon branch of the Wiltshire Family History Society which meets on alternate Thursdays at Gorse Hill Community Centre at 7.15pm. The society is an excellent place to start if you are intererested in discovering more about geneology. For more information, call Richard Moore on 537103. Topics for March are: 5th HM Royal Naval Museum, Portsmouth 19th Soldiers of the sea

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S C S Swindon Computing Services Limited 76 Cricklade Road, Swindon • Tel: 01793 430030 SCS P2 233 System including: P2 233 Intel CPU, 64Mb Dimm Memory 4.3 Hard Disk Drive, 15" Monitor 24 x CD-ROM, 55.6 Modem 16 Bit Sound Card & 60w speakers Windows 95 All for just £1,2 00.00

The Link Magazine • March 1998

Compost converts save cash for council A campaign to get householders to compost organic waste has saved council tax payers £15,000.

DO YOU WANT TO LET YOUR HOUSE? "' Free impartial advice on all aspects of residential letting. ' Management of all repairs and maintenance to owners instructions. - Full specialised buildings, contents, rent and legal protection insurance services. — A `Buy to Let' Mortgage scheme. c Belvoir is an approved agency for HM Forces relocation and specilises with the needs of service personnel - With offices across the UK.

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A nine month promotion of low cost compost bins by Swindon Council ends on 30 March with over 4,000 bins sold. Recycling Officer Sean Spencer-Wort hopes last minute sales will push the total nearer 5,000 by the end of the month. "It's been a very successful campaign," said Sean. "Advertisements in The Link and other publications have boosted sales, and the Council's environmental services committee has been pleased with the savings on land fill."

CL Reclaimed Timber & building materials — We buy and sell: Ply, bricks, timber, hardboard, chipboard and RSJs We also supply: sand & gravel (in bags)

For more details to* pop in or tel: 829715 The Yard, Tate Estate, Kingsdown Road, Stratton St Margaret, Swindon

From the August Link: celebrating the sale of the 3,000th compost bin, recycling officer Sean Spencer-Wort, right, with John McCulloch from Blackwall Ltd. and Cyril Dollimore from Stratton St Margaret

He said that the average household produces a weekly average of 2 to 3 kilos of fruit, vegetable and other organic waste. The people who have bought compost bins since May last year will have prevented between 475 to 675 tonnes being dumped in landfill where it produces poisonous methane gas. Composted waste improves gar-

den soil condition and is an excellent, free replacement to peat based commercial compost. There is still time to buy a compost bin normally priced at £29.95 for only £16, inclusive of delivery. Call the credit card hotline on 0345 660 699, or send a cheque to Blackwall Ltd (Swindon offer), Freepost, LS6334, Leeds LS11 9YY.

Rape helpline to be reopened In July 1998 Victim Support Wiltshire intend to re-launch a rape support helpline for the county writes Natalie Goodman.

Il 1

at MBROS THE BARGAIN STORE WITF A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Footwear, kitchenware, household goods, Li U U L_J gift sets, exquisite ornaments, picture frames, mirrors, DIY tools, radio cassettes, watches, stationery, electrical appliances, radios, calculators, disposable tableware, wide selection of toys, scented candles, cards Watch Battery fitting and paper

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The new helpline will offer a service during the evenings and weekends and will be open to men and women who have survived a sexual attack and need someone to talk to in confidence. The service will be run from Swindon and will cover the whole county. We are looking for dedicated female volunteers who think that they can offer a caring and compassionate service to rape victims. They must be prepared to commit themselves to working regularly on the helpline and will be expected to attend support sessions. The training will be very intensive and will cover all aspects of sexual attacks, abuse and violence. Volunteers will be supported at all times during their initial training and future work. Training begins at the end of March and will cover a three month period. Anyone who is interested in volunteering for this work should call 01380 729476 for further information and a volunteer pack. Victim Support is also now raising funds to start a support group for female rape victims in Swindon. This group will offer women an opportunity to meet others who

have had similar experiences. It is hoped that the group will start in the summer, the only delay being through lack of funding. Anyone wishing to donate funds toward either of these services should write to Victim Support Wiltshire, 31a The Brittox, Devizes, Wiltshire.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Swindon Project for Aids Counselling & Education (SPACE) would like volunteers for building maintenance work to ensure lights, heaters, etc. are operational; to assist with moving furniture, hanging pictures, painting, calling in professional help as and when required. Days and times are flexible. For further details of these vacancies at SPACE, and many others, please contact Swindon Volunteers at Voluntary Action on 538398 or drop in to I John Street, Swindon. Open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 10.30 am and 5pm.

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/—swindonlink

Seek advice if your disability benefits integrity is questioned

The Link Magazine • March 1998

Superior Secretarial Services Letter, Spreadsheets, Invoices, CV's Presentations, Reports, E-mail

In May 1997 a new initiative involving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) was put into operation by the Government. It could have serious implications if you are disabled say volunteers with the West Swindon Advice Point. The name given to this initiative was the Benefit Integrity Project and its objective is to check on over 400,00 disabled claimants. Disabled claimants who have had a review in the previous year will not be checked. The checks are divided into two kinds, either a notification of a home visit or a thirty three page questionnaire. Only people who receive both the mobility component and either the middle or higher rate care component will be

A professional and efficient service to suit you No job too big or small • Collection and delivery service

Contact Karen on 01793 618039^^ 0 or 0976 667590

one of the reputable advice centres listed below as soon as possible. Another point to remember is, not to worry, help is available from:

The Law Centre, Victoria Road, Swindon The Citizen Advice Bureau, 1 Faringdon Road, Swindon Stratton Advice Point, Stratton Public Library Millen Advice Point, Broadgreen Centre Or the Advice Point at The West checked. Do not be fooled into thinking Swindon Family and Community that this is merely an exercise by Project, 15 Gainsborough Way, the Benefits Agency. In order to Freshbrook. Tel: 871303. It is open maintain your benefit level any Monday and Wednesday,l0am to person who receives any commu- 12 noon, and can help with this nication in regards to the Integrity issue, most benefit enquiries and Project should seek the help from other day to day problems.

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Springtime housebuying

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Have a mo rt gage ready before you decide to move say West Swindon mortgage broker Mike Rees of Mansfield Begbie Associates With Spring almost here, many people who have toyed with the idea of moving house over winter will put their thoughts into action and put their houses on the market. This obviously results in an increase in activity at estate agents and the next step is to look for the right type of mortgage. There are a wide variety of houses on the market and there is just as wide a variety of mortgages available, from discounted rates to cashbacks, from capped rates to fixed for different periods, all of which adds up to confusion in the eyes of the general public as to which is the right choice for them. The first step is usually to speak to your bank or building society, who can give you advice on the best deals available, but this is only and credit searches will already in the range that they can offer. By have been carried out at no cost to speaking to a mortgage broker, you the client, giving them greater concan gain the advantage of being fidence and peace of mind whilst offered the best deal for you from searching for properties. We find this approach very suca variety of lenders. Many people think that by us- cessful and usually results in furing a broker, they have to pay ex- ther business as people are only tra or that they do not get the same too happy to recommend us to their deal as they would from dealing family and friends. At present, direct. Whilst it is true that some even though the Bank of England brokers do charge arrangement has not increased interest rates, fees, we at Mansfield Begbie Asso- we would still recommend fixed ciates very rarely charge a fee of rates to most clients to give them a any kind, and, in fact, try our best set budget for a certain period. to ensure that the mortgage is ap- However, with so many deals proved before the client has even available, it makes sense to speak to more than one lender or use the have found a property. This is called an 'Agreement in services of a broker to do it for you. For further advice on mortgages, Principle' or 'Mortgage Reserve Certificate', which confirms to the please telephone Mansfield Begbie client that finance for house pur- Associates on 772779, West Swinchase is available, subject to satis- don's longest established mortfactory survey, as all references gage broker.

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UPHOLSTERY SERVICE All types of recovery and repairs to modern and antique furniture !E Suites for sale direct to the public Huge range of fabrics available * Curtains made to your own design ;;; All our estimates are free So why not give Andy or Gary a call, and let us make the difference to your home

Call or fax: 01793 423549

Make your wedding

Jensons for Wedding Hire. FREE CAR PARK www.xlnt.co.uk/jensons

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FORMAL WEAR o D —

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Handmade gowns and cocktail wear For sale or hire

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124 Cricklade Road, Swindon u Telephone: (01793) 642211 0 Open: 9am - 5.30pm, Wed 9am - 1 pm, c ')

Sat 9am - 5pm • Free car park

To discuss your requirements, call Hilary on (01666) 510306. 10 minutes from Swindon. Easy Parking.

Jensons for Wedding Hire. FREE CAR PARK

MIRAGE ENTERTAINMENT

OF GLAMOUR

DJ & Compere Childrens Entertainer PA Hire & Event organisers

Tel or fax: 01793 854524

Makeover Portrait Sitting

The best name in all round entertainment

Only £15 (Normally £45)

Arranging a wedding can be a complicated V,^ and time consuming business. And it's so important to get it right. Good plannin and confidence in the people who are helping you organise the great day will create a memorable occasion for the happy couple, their families and friends. It's essential to take a long term view and to be flexible in your approach. At any point in the year there will be many other people getting married. The first of three very important elements in your planning is to contact the vicar of your parish if you are planning a church wedding, or the registry offices to establish dates when the wedding could take place. The venue for the reception should be second on your list. After all you have to have somewhere to entertain your guests. Popular venues like the newly extended Wrag Barn Golf Club are booked many months in advance. Thirdly, make arrangements with a photographer to record the special event. A wedding day can pass by so quickly for bride and groom and it is important to think ahead about looking back, with the help of a wedding album. Graham McCallion Photography, InsightPhotography and Talbot Photography are well established wedding photographers in the area, ready to discuss your needs.

ors We ing Designers ,,.•^•^,,, ,

Your personal requirements, from bouquets I;^ to complete reception layouts Specialists in silk & dried flowers for everlasting memories. 'MISS to M RS' on (01793) 876136 ^^•^•^ ^;ister

UNISEX HAIR

AND TANNING SALON Look Fantastic is becoming the client's first choice. Proprietor Pamela Hulme explains why after only 10 months she believes they are so successful. "We are situated in Wroughton, only ten minutes from West Swindon, compared to 20 minutes from the town centre. There is a large free car park right in front of the salon. "On your arrival you will be made to feel completely at home. We pride ourselves on our customers comments about our warm family atmosphere. "We offer all the services found in other salons, and more. For example, a home hair stylist can call on regular customer if they are unable to get to us. "Consultation on all hair care requirements is free and we are very careful to provide the required supervision and controlled use of the sunbeds in our tanning salon. "The other little things that matter a great deal to us are: we compare our prices monthly to give you the best rates. We have plenty of hairdressing stations so you can be seated very quickly, even when you call in without an appointment, though these are recommended. We keep to our times and extend our hours into the evening to suit clients who cannot come during the day. "The only real way to find out about us is to call in and see for yourself. Come along and have a chat, a cup of tea or coffee, and see if we can provide you with a hassle free visit to our salon."

Unit 2, The Ellendune Centre, Wroughton Tel: (01793) 813288

*5Air^jgeAUty O O O O o O

Hairdressing Zahra Sugaring Waxing Aromotherapy Manicures & pedicures Make-ups Mobile hair & beauty consultant IHBC, IIHHT qualified

Tel: 845752

WHITE ROLLS ROYCE, JAGUAR & ROVER Fully chauffeur driven, air conditioned cars Contact (01793) 762117

Mobile: 0860 683205

———————————————

^^^PARTNERS^^ HAIR

iZ Swindon's Premier f-fair Group it

120% DISCOUNT on cuts, perms & colours on Mondays (W. Swindon only), Tuesdays & Wednesdays (all 3 salons) with this adver ti sement

Call in for a free consultation Gainsborough Ave. West Swindon Centre Wootton Bassett Swindon Tel: 853220 Tel: 870462

12 Market Street Swindon Tel: 525471

!ay special with Once these have been booked, the other elements of a wedding can be planned. There are several hair salons in the Swindon area who will help the bride look out of this world. t` r -, Look Fantastic at Wroughton is just a few minutes away whilst Partners is located at the West Swindon Centre. Hair Razors is closeby at Toothill Centre. There's lots o free parking available right outside these three salons. Joanne Lister provides a mobile hairdressing service as well as a wide range of beauty treatments. Insight Photography are currently offering a special price for a complete make-over and a portrait sitting. The brides dress is always a talking point at a wedding and Neva's Creations in the town centre, Marie Jose Devenshire and Dressed for the Occasion all offer a made to measure service so that the bride will look unique. Mens wear, whilst still formal, is becoming more flamboyant nowadays and Jensons of Gorse Hill is a well known firm of outfitters who will cater for groom, best man and other important chaps on the wedding day. Flowers, transport and entertainment should also be on your planning list. Dream Cars will carry the bride to her wedding in their white Rolls Royce, whilst West Swindon based Miss to Mrs provide a complete flower arranging service, from personal bouquets to a total t itI reception layout. Party Box at Wootton Bassett / offer decorations of all kinds. Particularly popular is their decorated balloon service. \ i ^/ And whilst the bride and groom take off on their honeymoon, they can be assured that their r — nests are having a great time with the help of Mirage Entertainments, who can organise entertainers, a public address system and a disco. There's a lot to think about and prepare for. But with planning, your wedding will be a wonderful event.

Wedding Photography designed exclusively for you A professional, friendly and personal service Choice of wedding collections

01285 - 860667 Or call my mobile

Party B The One St( Party Shop

Wedding Specialists OVER 100 ALBUM

STYLES VIDEOS also Flowers Limousines STUDIOS

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202 Rodbourne Road Swindon

Your Wedding Venue

lWed"ding gowns, mens & boys formal attire for hire at realistic prices.

for brides, bridesmaids, pageboys and mother of the bride - made to measure Communion dresses designed and made. Large selection of quality materials

I Vogue ered Regist ered

rick

Tele phone (01793 724297

Toothill Village Centre SPECIAL WEDDING SERVICE Available for bride & bridal parties For good friendly advice on our package consultation and 2 practices - call today to arrange your first appointment (price list available)

Tel: 422824 Unit 1 Toothill Village Centre Open: Tues, Wed 9am - 5pm • Thursday 8.30am - 6pm Friday 8.30am - 7pm • Saturday 8.30am - 2pm^

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• Novelties & Gifts • Fancy dress accessories • Balloons & balloon decoration service • Helium gas kits A wide range for weddings, birthdays, Christenings and parties 13 Apsley House Arcade High Street, Wootton Bassett Tel/fax: 01793 853976 Mobile: 0378 954903

-187 Victoria Road Swindon • Tel: (01793) 421 068

151 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

0385 - 951607

oose from our new range of gowns. Also communion dresses.

BRIDAL DRESSMAKER

WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIA

Cirencester

s, bridesmaids, mother of the bride outfits & evening wear.

Jose

PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO

Telephone Tod Clark

Fa shion Seamstress • Maker of made-to-measure wedding

Bri

Graham McCallion

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eva's creation

Fai Tal by

Tal bot

Discover the perfect wedding location Set in the Wiltshire countryside with panoramic views of the Vale of the White Horse, our newly refurbished Function Suite accommodates up to 120 people. There is no room hire charge and we offer a host of specialist services such as a photographer, florist, music, etc. Contact us to discuss the variety of dinner and buffet menus available, and all your other wedding ts.

Further details from

The Secretary on (01793) 861327 Wrag Barn Golf Club Shrivenham Road, I-Iighworth Swindon SN6 7QQ

36 The Link Magazine • March 1998

Could there be a debt free start to the new millennium?

Freshbrook

Evangelical Church i

IJ Howard from the Swindon Churches for Social Action writes

Worsley Road

Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday I oam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the

"Thy heart is My home; sanctify it for My descent" The Baha'i faith is the ;ecortd most widespread religio in the world and is working towards universal peace and harmony For more information, contact the Swindon Baha'is Community on 01793 421615 or 01793 872853

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH Live with integri ty Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things SUNDAYS AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

10.30AM All ages of children & teens cared for Information: Call Brian at the Church O ff ice: 849731 in association with

Imagine you have taken out a loan to support your family. You have every intention to repay it. But as you try to do so, during the first few years, you realise that the rates of interest are increasing and are beyond your ability to meet them. You try to cut back, but after ten years you are not even managing the interest payments, let alone any of the sum borrowed. Imagine the distress as after 20 years you now owe much more money than you originally borrowed. More and more is going towards interest payments and less is spent on your family's needs. Things are

looking desperate for the future. What can you do? This situation is one faced by all of the world's poorest countries. Those needing most help are actually being put in a worse position by the banks of the rich countries. Many are now unable to pay off the interest, let the debt. This leaves them trapped forever, owing more and more with no hope of repaying it. For the whole of Africa it would cost $9 billion a year to meet basic health, nutritional and educational needs. This is less than one third of the interest due on the debt of the

Women's World Day of Prayer

Women Out West Hazel Kenee writes

Women Out West is a small, friendly social group for women with or without children which meets every Friday morning, 9.30am to 11.30am, during term time in the large meeting room in the Link Centre Community Suite. A variety of events are planned including coffee mornings, craft mornings, speakers and outings. Working with There is a free creche to give mums some time to enjoy the activities street children without interuption. Our £1 charge A one time youth leader from outer London who now works covers room costs and coffee. New members are always welwith street children in Guatamala visits Swindon on Fri day 6 March. come, so if you are free on Friday Duncan Dyason, director of the mornings come and give us a try. For further details ring Kerrie Toybox Charity, will talk about on 875820 or Hazel on 871248. the work caring for children who live rough in cardboard shelters on the streets of Guatamala City. In concert The Toybox team offer medical Sulis Brass play chamber treatment and food from a bus, music at St Mary's, Purton which has been stoned and shot at 7 March, 7.30pm. and team members have also been The programme includes Bach physically attacked. Upper Stratton Baptist Church, fugues, Mozart, Haydn, ricercare by Green Road, hosts the visit which Gabrieli and the Echo Fantasia by Banchieri. starts at 7.30pm. For more information, call Mike Tickets: £5, conc. £4; £15 for a family on the door, or call 770525. Derry on 770660. This year's service will be held on Friday 6 March at 7.30pm at Purton Methodist Chapel, Playclose (off the High Street), Purton. The theme will be 'Who is my neighbour?' and the address will be given by Ebby Alukoyio. All are welcome to attend.

whole continent. In 1993 for every $1 given by developed countries $3 were taken back in debt repayment. Swindon Churches for Social Action are supporting the campaign byJubilee 2000 (a movement calling for the release of the poorer nations of their debts to the banks of the rich countries by the year 2000). They will be organising coaches to take people from Swindon to the G7 summit in Birmingham on 16 May. They hope that churches, other community groups and interested individuals will want to join a symbolic linking of hands around Birmingham to show world leaders their concern for this issue. There will also be a presentation of a petition to the leaders of the world's most powerful nations calling for them to allow the poorer nations to start the new millennium without the crippling burden of debt. If you would like to attend, please contact Phillada Ware on 729592 to reserve a place. The cost is £8 for adults, £5.50 for children. The closing date to make a reservation is 21 April.

Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Vans • Lutons Estates • Cars 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret Swindon

Open Daily 9am - 6 pm Sundays gam - 1 Oam

SPECIALISTS IN

f^ E OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw-10:30am RevdAndrewHethenngton: 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 Jan Partridge: 534992 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Walker: 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

FIRES & FIREPLACES

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

Off

gifts

THE

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CENTRE

Visit our newly extended showrooms NOW TWICE THE SIZE Showrooms at: Also now stocking a wonderful 1 Rodbourne Rd, Swindon ran ge of gift ideas for anywhere in Tel: (01793) 612288 the home or for someone special.

SERVICE SECTOR ACCOUNTANCY Business start ups Book-keeping Annual accounts Self assessment tax Short & long term assistance & projects

GRA Accountancy Services Free initial meeting Te l/fax: 01793 871790 Mobile: 0468 068 770

CHIROPODIST

Call FREE anytime on 0800 731 6879 Home visit se rv ice or come to our modern town centre surge ry

GARDENS

Get your garden fit Mr Rotavator Creative Gardens Landscaping, Patios, Paths & Ponds, Fencing, Clearance & General Maintenance

Bii

rnnai ,& ea//

%I• n1741- 7n9n; PHYSIOTHERAPY

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP,

, Authority Approvals n^^J►

?epairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience All work guaranteed No VAT to pay

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

In Independent In

Advice Kitchen Design & Domestic Extensions & Alterations a

speciality Personal Service

Carolyn Phillippo BA (Arch) Swindon 721535

DECORATOR

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Tel: 01793 701394 Interior & exterior painting and decorating Ceramic tiling Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too small Free estimates

RICH BUT CASH POOR? If your home is worth at least £60,000 we might be able to produce a substantial cash sum for you to use for any legal purpose. * No Interest to pay or roll up during the lifetime of the mortgage

Dennis Brown Gas Engineer 29 Meares Drive Shaw, Swindon Home tel: Sponsor to Wroughton Shotokan Karate Club

A WIDE VARIETY OF SHEDS &SOMME

HOUSES MADE TO ORDER OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS COMPETITIVE PRICES FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £30

Units 1A & 1B, Gipsy Lane Business Park, Gipsy Lane, Swindon SN2 EDT

* No Term - can be for life if you wish

* No details of income required

LPG & Natural Gas Services • Boilers • • Fires & fire places • Cookers

servicing

your local Independent

Finan cial Adviser

Castlegate Investments The Bentley Centre Stratton Road, Swindon SNI 2SH

01793 616333

"No job too small" Very reasonable prices

R.ro.,

7l7? '

saw

SUNBED HIRE

Deb's Sunbeds

Home Rental

Tel: 01793 848424 Mobile: 0378 553703 60 High Street, Wootton Bassett

anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

Small building work, carpent ry , joine ry , painting & decorating, fitted wardrobes and kitchens, plugs and washers fitted

'PIA do not regulate these product Written quotations available on request e

m M

THE ODD J OB MAN

01793 521161 ( an swerphone)

• Aga, Rayburn specialist

CONTRACTOR

ODD JOBS

For more information speak to

• Boiler changes • Also riverboat appliances, installation and

01793 874742

(Factory for the disabled)

FENCING PANELS & TRELLIS • CONCRETE OR WOODEN POSTS • ALL ACCESSORIES PATIO SLABS & PLANTERS GREENHOUSE STOCKISTS

* No Upper Age Limit

GAS REPAIRS

GARDENS

ARE YOU ASSET

and friendly service

Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters Doubles also available Free installation & local delivery Tel: Swindon 421665

Cha rt ered Physiotherapist

I BUILDING PLANS 26 Drawings Gt j'1, ^.^Q► 6 Local

ji,1LtA! !.;'

GK PECORATORS Book your appointment with Ma rt in Drew MBcHA, MSSch Children's verruca surge ry open. All other aspects of foot care catered for.

REPAI

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

A me rr ber of DB5 Financial Management PLC which is regulated by the Personal lnresunent Autho y

TV REPAIRS

NORMAN GRAW N & VIDEO SERVICES

TV, VIDEO & SATELLITE REPAIRS NO CALL OUT CHARGE ALL REPAIRS GUARANTEED

For a local efficient service,

Ring Swindon 643350

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

TV REPAIRS

ILLIAMS V & VIDEO Specialists in repairs of TVs, videos, satelite, microwaves, audio equipment & in car hi-fi's. Free estimates 30A COUNTY ROAD, SWINDON

Tel: 01793 423371 Mobile 0976 752073

The Link Magazine • March 1998

Play the Piano Learn to Sing Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

RGR PLASTERING All internal & external work unde rt aken Extensions & alterations No job too small • Free estimates

on 845752

Tel: 642283 GET YOUR COMPANY ON THE NET WEB SITE DESIGN & PUBLISHING

Toothill Ward (includes Westlea, Shaw & Roughmoor) councillor David Cox is available at surgeries on Monday 2 March at Toothill Farmhouse, Bodiam Drive, 6pm to 7pm

CALL KDI TECHNOLOGY

Tuesday 14 April, George & Ann Tweed Room, Westlea School, 7pm to 8pm

01793 512612

L L3I f

For Sale

Boys Raleigh bike, aged 8-12yrs, 21 speed, £50. Girls Raleigh bike, aged 7-10 yrs, 5 speed, £50. Both excel condition. Tel: 705259 Gents racer bike, good, cond, 18 gears, mud guards, lights, lock included, £75. Tel: 887386

2 folding beds, mattress & headboard, good clean cond, £40 ea. Tel: 875441 Small wing style 3 piece suite, brown floral tapestry, 2 seater settee, one armchair, one recliner, good cond, ideal for small room, £180. Tel: 871656 Pine effect kitchen table, 42" x 26", good cond, £30. Tel: 878464 Mahogany - wall unit, 5', £150; TV video unit, 31" £75; coffee table, £30. Fire, log effect, black iron, 33" x 41", £75. Tel: 875502 Mahogany TV video cabinet, vgc, £50. Tel: 728732 Corner unit for TV, video equipment, with glass doors, as new, £50. Tel: 875706 Single white wardrobe, plus two matching 3 drawer units, £40, will separate, good condition. Tel: 874990

Gent's cycle BSA Crusader, 10 speed gears, £85. Tel: 537671 Boys mountain bike, 10 speed, suit ages 5-8yrs, excel condition, fully operational computer attached, £55 ono. Pair of speakers, £10 ono. Tel: 881297 White cot with mattress, good cond, £20. Tel: 872352 Baby rocker chair, birth onwards, & activity bar, £5. Clothes for baby girl, birth - 12 months, incl Next, BHS, Adams, from £1, exc cond. Tel: 726188 Little Tykes play garden with gate, letterbox etc, £35. Sit-on pushalong car, £3. Girls outfits 6 - 18 months approx, from 50p. Tel: 527106 Mamas & Papas Caravel pram/pushchair with raincover and cosytoes, £130. Boots steam sterilizer, £12. Baby bath, £5. ELC swing frame, £10. Tel: 876842 Cossato cot, excel cond, white, £100, mattress incl if needed. Tel: 534964 Mamas & Papas babywalker, £15. Moses basket, £15. 3 in 1 Sport Baby pram, £55. Boots bouncy chair, £7.50. Orion camcorder & extras, £175. Tel: 877472 Baby bath, white, £3. Newborn - 6 months clothes & toys from 50p. Sport Baby 3 in one buggy/carrycot & shopping tray, £55. Tel: 877472 Barbie house, dolls, clothes & accessories, £30. Yamaha 2.5 octave keyboard, £10. Skidlid cycle helmet, suit child 8-10 yrs, £5. Tel: 874138 Patrick football boots, size 38, worn 3 times, vgc, £10 ono. Tel: 614403 Gents heavy duty wellingtons, size 9, thick ridged, non-slip soles, worn once, clean condition, £5. Tel: 535639 Pronuptia wedding dresses, white size 8/10, white size 12, £80 each. Hats white, £20 each. Parasol, white, £20. Tel: 881283 Fit Master I1 multi gym vgc, hardly used, £100 ono. Tel: 875530 Snooker cue Techno Classic, in hard case, little used, £26 ono. Tel: 695040 Rowing machine, never used, £20 ono. Tel: 872426

Hairdresser For details, contact Joanl

Telephone table come seat, storage space under seat, £10. Tel: 694692 Dark teak fireplace, coloured Cotswold stone look and two dark shelves, space for electric fire, £40. Tel: 695021 Teak colour 4 drawer chest, £25. Two bedside cabinets, teak and white, £5 each, all in good cond. Tel: 702046 White flush interior doors, with furniture, 9 sized 30" x 78". 2 sized 27" x 78", good condition, £40 ono. Tel: 881296 Sofa bed vgc, £50 ono. Tel: 722155 Cane display unit, five shelves, w 26", h 69", good cond, £65. Tel: 870166 Oak framed tan leather 3 piece suite, 2 chairs & 3 seater settee, vgc, £400 ono. Tel: 455228 Crockery set (plates, saucers etc), Harvest range. Video table. Umbro/ Addidas trousers, age 10, jackets x 3. M & S adult jacket. Tel: 873796 Vax vacuum cleaner and carpet shampooer, all attachments and instructions, £40. Tel: 878415 Hotpoint Aquarius Ultra 1,000 Deluxe washing machine, 4 yrs old, perfect working order, £65. Tel: 539434 Calor gas heater vgc, £22, bottle £7.50. Snooker table, 5ft x 2.5 ft with cues, vgc, £29. Tel: 882782 Panasonic green, upright hoover, £60. Tower compact slo cooker, unused, £15. Wahl pet clippers, £15. Mothercare steam sterilizers holds six bottles, £10. Tel: 728507 Tumble dryer, never used, Hotpoint, £55. Freezer, good working order (new £125) £25. Tel: 611686

L.LLL

Jeoning

Services Don't be pressed for time ^^2 Let the chore be mine Reasonable rates Further details on request

Contact Louise on

(01793) 871913

L L

For Sale Hotpoint fridge freezer, good condi-

For Sale BMW 520i, 1985, red, sunroof, electric windows/mirrors, rear headrests, T & T, vgc, £1295. Tel: 872388 Hyundia Lantra 1.5LS 1994, taxed & MOT til May 98, white, 4 dr, anti locking system, £2,850, reluctant sale, must be seen. Tel: 887483 Rover Metro City, 1 litre, G reg silver, good condition, ideal first car, stereo, inci tax & MoT, £1,200. tel: 881357

tion, £200. Tel: 701559 Pine sunbed incl stand 9 tubes, £20 ono. Tel: 878146 Sega mega drive plus 15 top games, £50 ono inc 2 control pads, plus turbo pad. Tel: 874128 Super Nintendo & many games, £45. Childs black ice skates, size 11, hardly worn, £25. Tel: 876026 Spreadsheet, Borland Quattro Pro House exchange V5.0 for Windows, also works with Win- 3 bed house in W Swindon for 3 bed dows 95. Original media, manuals and house, any area considered. Tel: packaging, £25. Tel: 879509 423824 Oregon scientific organiser, AM 6388 66k, appointments calendar scedule Wanted etc, as new, £20. Panasonic cordless Filing cabinet in any condition, must phone with intercom, 2 way paging, be able to deliver. Tel: 879590 Reliable trustworthy person to work £35. Tel: 874523 Amiga 500+ computer, Phillips colour approx 4 to 5 hrs per wk to maintain a monitor, Star colour printer LC24-200, home for a professional couple whilst WP education package, games, acces- at work. Tel: 881062 sories, manuals, £250. Tel: 723945 Found Mega CD games, £5, Sewer Shark, In Clayhill Copse park, Peatmoor, Ground Zero, Wolf Child, Road Boyzone, digital watch, blue. Tel: Avenger. Five game Mega CD, £10 879469 and more games. Tel: 879771 Canon Starwriter 30, word processor, Services exc cond with user's guide and box of (50p per word. Cheques to West Swindon Publications) blank discs. £185. Tel: 874764 Toshiba stereo, SM-200 music cen- Need a babysitter? Try me, very tre, 2 x 6 watt speakers, £30. Smith experienced mature grandmother, Corona XE 5100 typewriter, spell right own transport. Tel: 870138 dictionary, £35. Tel: 537671. Sharp midi system, CD player, twin Earn top wages with a professional cassette, radio, vgc, £50. Tel: 878677 home cleaning service. Work partGreenhouse 8x6 ft, all glass complete, time, school hours, Monday - Friday, solid wood, staging bench, buyer dis- no experience necessary, we train, car mantles and collects, £80. Tel: 874175 needed. Call Merry Maids on 431363

Free Private For Sale 8z Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 14th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Name & Address (not for publication)

Ln Tick if you do not want your ad to appear on the swindonlink internet web site)

The Link Magazine • March 1998

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/ —swindonlink

Cable comes again. This time with goodies! People living in West Swindon in 1986 will recall the chaos caused by the laying of cable television. It's all going to start again from 1 March, with every house in Swindon, Purton, Wootton Bassett and Wroughton to be passed by cable by the end of 1999. Every street is to be dug up by ComTel in a £30 million operation to supply new television and telephone services. This time it could be worth the disruption. The past Twelve years ago people were getting used to Channel 4, satellite television was just being established, telephone connection via cable and the internet was just a fanciful vision for a few. Without much warning, Swindon Cable started to dig up recently completed pavements, the mud, dust and mess was incredible, cars and mums pushing buggies were trapped on driveways by often rude and unhelpful contractors. Legislation had recently awarded cable companies public utility status and gave them the right to dig up roads and pavements like gas, electricity, telephones and water. In protest CACTUS, Campaign against Cable under Swindon, was set up to give Swindon Cable a hard time in the media.

Comtel public relations mana'cr Will Cairns, left, and Construction ManagerMalcolm Anley at the company's Hawksworth base

nels, telephone services can now be provided by a range of suppliers and the internet is developing into a serious method of gaining information and services. The franchise for Swindon is now owned by ComTel, a subsidiary of Dutch telecoms and postal provider KPN, which operates in nine franchise areas across England.

S,cm,loii's last Conservative MP Simon Coombs hearing complaints from Freshbrook residents in 1986 about the way cable had been installed outside their homes

Public relations manager Will Cairns said the existing cable network is still owned by BT which means, as competitors for telephone business, ComTel has to create a new system. "We will take all steps possible to minimise disruption to residents with good information before construction starts and using good working practices. A leaflet informing that work is due to start The present will be distributed three to four Technology has caught up with weeks beforehand. A few days the predictions. Digital TV will before we dig up a street a card soon offer a huge number of chan- will be put through doors with a The company tried desperately to convince residents with belated explanations about the future attractions of multi-channel TV and cheap telephone calls to convince them that it was worth all the disruption and aggravation. Cable laying practices were improved as a result, but the programme was cut back and little cable has been laid since.

return slip asking residents to let us know if there are any special needs, such as access for people with disability. "We expect to pass a house in one working day. After the cable is laid, we will send a letter of thanks to residents, and the installation will be tested before it goes live about two months later." He added that the council will monitor trench digging and will only take over the pavements after two years. ComTel will be setting up a cable construction helpline for householders to call for information or complain. The future The new cable system will offer: • television and telephone connections through one cable into the home, for one installation fee • an increase from the present 31 television channels to several hundred when digital TV develops, including home shopping and banking • pay per view channels and eventually Near Video on Demand, showing recently released films • low cost telephone services, cheaper than BT; free local evening and weekend calls between cable users • Internet provider services • free connections to schools ComTel has been laying cable outside Swindon to link all its franchise areas. The work in March will start from the Swindon base at Hawksworth Industrial Estate towards Gorse Hill and Stratton to connect with the Comtel headquarters near Reading, laid along the A419.

TIPS FROM THE LINK If you live in Peatmoor and North Swindon where roads and pavements have not been completed, do not let the contractors put on the top surface. It will only be dug up sometime in the next 18 months.

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If you want to see how badly cable was installed twelve years ago, The Link has a video showing the devastation to streets and pavements. It is available to view in return for a £5 donation to the Greendown School music school. Tel: 872282.

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