March 2002 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

No. 238 • March 2002 • Circulation 22.000

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and the Swindon wide what's on guide

Art abounds around the town Turn to page 29 to see the talents of children in two schools who have been working with artist Gordon Dickinson of No Added Sugar.

The council must deliver In the three weeks following its launch through The Link, over 3,000 people signed a petition calling for improved safety measures on Corton Crescent, Westlea. The Mayor of Swindon coun David Cox, receives the petition from Westlea parents Faye Howard and Dawn Dolphin with her sons Zachary and Joshua. Story page 3.

There's always a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his staff at "Purton's hidden Indian treasure"

Atlantic rower meets new Salzgitter Mayor Link story appears in twin town's newspaper Story on page 4 S

Above, after Seurat, Gordon with William Day and Tizane Pill from Greenmeadow School. Below, Brook Field children with their ideas for a new sculpture for Gordon to make, Benjamin McMahon, Rebecca Cotton, Jade Woodham

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

3,000 signatures back call for safe crossing LOOSE EIN1b5

A petition launched on 2 February calling on Swindon Council to build a safe pedestrian crossing at Corton Crescent between Westlea and the West Swindon Centre has received a huge response. In three weeks, volunteers collected over 3,000 signatures which was handed to the Mayor of Swindon councillor David Cox on 14 February, to be presented to the full council on 21 February. The February Link front page pictured the Mayor with Westlea road campaigner Dawn Dolphin and Sandra and Ray Shirley close to where their son Shaun was knocked down on 17 January last year. Sadly little of note has been done to make Corton

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though the road is a major pedestrian and cycle route, and is used by hundreds of children from Westlea School who walk to swim- Sandra Shirley, centre, is shown the petition by Dawn Dolphin, witli from left, Faye ming lessons at the Link Howard, Bindy Nahal, Dee Blanche, Steph Thomason holding Lydia, Ray Shirley holding Jonathan, Lorraine Hammersley. Front, Laura Hammersley Centre each week. The site was prioritised for safety measures at the coun- in the road, close to where drivers place on 15 February," said Sandra. cil's annual road safety review in turn into the fuel station. "I've visited Corton Crescent sevDecember, but no action will be On petition launch day, 2 Febru- eral times and the lack of speed taken until next year's budget ary, six Westlea School parents col- restrictions or pedestrian lights is comes into force from April, and lected nearly 2,000 signatures at a constant and bitter reminder. only then if it is deemed more dan- the West Swindon Centre. Coordi"It's often said that there must be gerous than other places in need of nator Dawn Dolphin said she was a fatality before a council will do attention. amazed by the response. "There is anything. My son died; what else Yet cars and buses still speed tremendous awareness of the dan- has to happen before they make down the hill and round the cor- gers on Corton Crescent; people the crossing safer." ner from Whitehill Way and huge want to see it made safer and they If the money is allocated, the lorries delivering to Asda reverse want the council to do something council has plans to install pedesquickly. There were many com- trian controlled lights at the site ments about how slowly they and also to impose a 20mph speed move, as if they don't want to do li mit on Corton Crescent. anything." Receiving the petition the mayor Sandra and Ray Shirley visited David Cox said, "the council must the volunteers to express appre- now listen to people and act ciation for their efforts. "This time quickly. There has been too much last year we were coming to terms delay in taking action. Corton Creswith Shaun's death and had to pre- cent will be made safer." pare for his funeral which took

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

In the the Spiri Spirit of Swindon and Salzgitter

Vacancy in the parish Haydon Wick Parish Council has a vacancy to fill and would like to hear from anyone interested in helping to influence what happens in the local community. "So there is an important role to play in trying to influence the development of the local physical environment and the community provision that goes with it." To discuss qualification requirements and details of the position, contact Sue Martin, clerk to Haydon Wick Parish Council, at the Council Offices, Thames Avenue, tel: 722446 or mail: clerkC'haydonwick.gov.uk www.haydonwick.gov.uk

Richard Hailstone, chairman, said the range of responsibilities held by the council which affect the lives of residents is wide. "We get involved with litter, vandalism, recreation, youth provision, bus shelters and the maintenance of open spaces. We operate the community transport bus which is invaluable for many elderly residents and all planning applications, small and large, are referred to the council for comments.

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Norman presents a photogaph of himself holding the Salzgitter flag in the Spirit of Swindon to Herr Knebel, who gave him a book about the city. With them is the Mayor of Swindon David Cox

Atlantic rower Norman Butler from Westlea completed another journey on 10 February when he met the new mayor of Swindon's twin town Salzgitter at a civic dinner. Norman told Herr Helmut Knebel that the Salzgitter city flag presented to him by his predecessor Herr Rudi Rueckert in September at the West Swindon Centre was one of the items that gave him inspiration on his 82 day row across the Atlantic. "It was good to have the flag with me on the Spirit of Swindon; I really felt that I was representing the people of both Swindon and Salzgitter." Herr Knebel said he was particularly glad to meet Norman, having read about his exploits in the Salzgitter Zeitung. "To be on the ocean for so long, I admire what he has done. Norman is an example of what you can do if you set yourself a target, and what conditions man can endure. "He had a special spirit of both Swindon and Salzgitter together." Whilst at sea The Link kept the Salzgitter Zeitung informed of his progress and supplied photographs for publication. Flashback to the .

the Link

returned to projects to benefit

Published by West Swindon Publications Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189

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October Link toasting tht , Spirit, Norman with the two r^ Mayors, David Cox right and Spirit Gf,SWindon Herr Rudi Rue'3P Norman Butit, ckert, second left 3 Photo: Calyx Multimedia

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Publisher/Editor:

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Editorial:

Tel: (01793) 872282

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

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

e: publisher@swindonlink.com www.swindonlink.com

Greendown Playgroup were helped by the Co-op to refurbish their new building in Grange Park

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The Link

It all comes down to numbers The Conservatives in control of Swindon Council have upped their proposal to increase council tax to 12.5% from their earlier published figure of 9.5%, following a consultation exercise, thereby removing the threat of cutbacks in expenditure on arts activities across the town, whilst pumping £1.5 million into schools. Meanwhile the Labour Party on their hands or even voting with another party, there is all have indicated they want to v_ to play for. put council tax up by 15% and It could be a wild bun fight, "" £5 million into schools. The Libor a done deal before the meeteral Democrats have not deing. One thing is clear, Swinclared anything. ii don council tax will be a bit Unfortunately The Link can- Leader line-up: from left, Mike Bau'den (Con), Sue Bates (Lab), Mike Eaemy (Lib Dem) closer to the average for Wiltnot report the end of the game shire. Hopefully, the increased as we have to go to press before balance of power to agree with the the crucial full council meeting on Conservatives or to back Labour. income will be spent wisely on 21 February where the issue will However, it all depends on the services that everybody agrees are be finally decided. numbers of councillors in the necessary. The Conservatives have 22 seats, chamber to vote. With illnesses, Labour have 29 and the Lib Dems holiday or work commitments, or have 8, potentially giving them the perhaps some councillors sitting Mother's I)ay 10th March Special offers - £30

On consultation or cuts? Matt Holland, director of the Swindon Festival of Literature, looked behind the headlines and the hype and found serious discussion on difficult issues affecting the town. Veteran journalists like to joke about not letting the facts get in the way of a good story. Well, sometimes they don't, and the result is not always a joke. This was the case, to quite some degree, when the proposed council budget for 2002/3 was made public in December last year. ' Massive cuts in the arts' screamed the headlines, 'cultural desert' said the reports. Only the small print or the gentler voice told us that these were proposals, which would be subject to a rigorous, if short, public consultation period. But the damage was done. Hysteria broke out. But even after time, when the word consultation had been well and truly bandied about, there was still suspicion and cynicism about what it really meant. For example, there were those who reckoned it was all deliberately done with insufficient time to consult properly. Maybe, but that did not mean that we could not give it a go. Others, keen followers of the political scene, reckoned that the proposed budget was more to do with political point-scoring than it was with real economies. Who knows? Others still had even grimmer theories of Machiavellian goings on, any of which may have been right, or wrong. But the point was, if, as an arts events organiser relying on council support, or any other organisation affected by the proposals, you chose to heed all these negative and suspicion-laden reactions, you could easily slip into a slough of despond and become pessimistic, angry, resigned, and inactive. But if, naively or otherwise, you chose to ignore newspaper headlines and negative rumour, and

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instead went to the source of the information, the clerk to the council at the civic offices, and read the documents produced by his less sensation-seeking hand, and then went to a council meeting or two, a quite different picture emerged and you could begin to feel less unfairly treated. In fact, you would get a not altogether unreasonable picture of councillors and officers trying to sort out a tricky situation. What's more, once you actively started to consult, communicate your concerns, propose solutions, and listen to different councillors' points of view, i t became even more clear that, notwithstanding the ti me constraints, consultation actually meant just that, intelligent conversation and consideration of the picture as a whole, not just your own bit. The manner in which hardpressed councillors from all parties conscientiously replied to questions, acknowledged letters, and generally welcomed debate, was eye-opening and reassuring. Now let us hope that when the votes are cast and final decisions made, the outcome will demonstrate that the same level of good reason and good sense has pre-

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The Link Magazine â€˘ March 2002

New hospital takes shape ready for November opening In just 28 months, a muddy field near the M4 motorway has been transformed as the new Great Western Hospital has appeared on the Swindon landscape. The Link was given a guided tour inside the enormous six storey L-shaped structure by builders Carillion. Around five hundred workers are busily fitting out the building, putting down fl ooring, installing miles of pipework, ventilation ducting and wiring. To achieve so much in such a short time has been a masterpiece of logistical planning and design by Carillion, the firm behind the project which won the contract to build the replacement for PMH under the Government's Private Finance Initiative scheme. The fi rm will build, operate and maintain the hospital which will be leased to the Swin-

don and

Marlborough NHS Trust for the next 27 years. Since

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had to order colossal

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contractors, meet tight deadlines and juggle the complex demands of building a hospital designed for the 21st Century.

The five storey high glass lobby

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of the paediatric unit

Overseeing all aspects of specialist equipment installation on site, Carillion's design co-ordinator Adam Stevens explained that work is progressing really well. This is a very busy period, with many different contractors in the building completing the services and fitting out on all levels." Each floor has a wide central 'street running down it giving access to specialist departments and wards. Most of the wards will consist of four bed and single bed rooms. All boast en-suite facilities and most have impres-

sive views of the Wiltshire countryside. Each ward will have its own kitchenette so that food delivered from the main kitchens can be kept hot

and served in its optimum condition. The colour scheme at the hospital reflects what designers call 'an earth to sky approach,' with terracotta tones on the lower floors running through green in the middle floors and sky blues at the top.

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Wards on the upper levels are now largely completed and decorated. Guided tours for staff are taking place so that they can become familiar with the layout of the building in the detailed preparation for moving in. The hospital will have a 14 bed kidney dialysis unit, which will replace a temporary facili ty in the Railway Village in Swindon. And an on-site creche will prove a major asset for Swindon and Marlborough NHS Trust's campaign to fill vacancies. To complement the 17 ward areas, there are 516 toilets, 9 lifts and 2,851 sets of doors and enough flooring material to cover nine football pitches. In total there are about 3,500 rooms in the building.

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

Evolution aims to equip new hospital for the future The Government has allocated £8 million for equipment at the Great Western Hospital, more than other PFI schemes; the total NHS investment in the new hospital will approach £170 million. But rather th an move old equipment already in use at PMH, the Swindon and Marlborough NHS Trust has launched the Evolution Project to raise £5 million so that the highest quality equipment is in place from day one to make patients' progress through the hospital easier. With support pledged by Nationwide Building Society, which is providing funding for a Special Care Baby Unit, and the GWR Group, over £1 million is already in the bank. Trust chief executive Sonia Mills said: "the Great Western will be one of the nation's most modern hospitals. From letters I receive and conversations I have with patients and carers, I know how seriously local people take their hospital. Health care is something which is clearly of great importance to them and I hope that they will get right behind this campaign." Project patrons include The Rt Hon the Earl Cairns CVO, CBE, comedian Julian Clary, explorer David Hempleman-Adams, the Rt Hon the Earl of Kimberley and Charles Nunneley. Every little bit helps. For details of how you can organise a fund raising event, or provide support for Evolution, call Carol Taylor, Campaign Director, on 425243 or Chris Birdsall, Communications Manager on 425296.

Help helicopter serve Swindon Until now the Wiltshire air ambulance has not served the town because of the lack of a landing pad at PMH. But this will change when the Great Western Hospital opens, write Steve Chesworth, fundraising coordinator for the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Appeal.

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your partner in business` Arthur Cohen R.H.A.D. M.S.H.A.A. ArkellsBreweryliaslaunched a 'name the bear' competition in a bid to raise £25,000 for the Evolution Appeal. You could win by choosing from 40 names - all employees at the brewery for a1 stake, at one of the 101 Arkells pubs across the region. "They are really sweet cuddly teddies," said Sheila Cleary, landlady at the Jovial Monk, St Andrew's Ridge. "There has been a great response; our customers love them, and it's a great cause." Sheila is pictured with bar person Helen Plaister

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U NBEATABLE In anticipation of this exciting collections. new project the appeal is looking The Wiltshire Air Ambulance for committed and enthusiastic has helped to rescue and airlift volunteers to become regional and more than 1,200 people to hospiarea organisers. tals in the past ten years. The apWe are looking for people who peal needs to raise well in excess of are self motivated and believe in £200,000 a year to keep the Wiltthe work of the air ambulance. shire Air Ambulance flying. They also need to have the time So the best way to help us to and energy to be effective volun- help you is to become a volunteer, teers in the field. because you never know when you One regional organiser is re- or a relative may need to be airquired for Swindon who will over- lifted to hospital. see the work of local organisers For information or to apply to be working in all parts of the town, a regional or area organiser, conincluding West and North Swin- tact Steve Chesworth, Wiltshire Air don. The local organisers will be Ambulance Appeal, Dorman responsible for liaising with com- House, Malmesbury Road, munity groups, attending local Chippenham, Wilts SN15 5LN. events and organising fundraising Tel: 01249 463431.

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

Age Concern sets out to raise £50,000 in fiftieth year It's not only the Queen who celebrates a golden jubilee this year. Locally Age Concern, Swindon marks its fiftieth year as the largest voluntary organisation helping older people in the town make more of life. The management committee has get that bit of help when they need ing closely with the health and set itself the target of raising it and are recognised as active citi- social services. Despite threats of grant cut backs £50,000 through concerts, zens forthe contribution they make." fundraising events and direct ap- In 1952 there were about 4,000 from Swindon Council, Jo says Age peals to businesses. Community older people in the town. Today, Concern is looking forward to the groups, schools, sports teams, of- 61,500 people over the age of 50 challenges. The proportion of older people in the population is fices, pubs and individuals are also live in and around Swindon. being asked to organise events. Age Concern campaigns for bet- growing and the number of over At the launch of the Golden Ju- ter pensions at a national level and, 85s is increasing, which is why we bilee Appeal, Age Concern Swin- with an army of 230 local volun- are appealing to the Swindon comdon director Jo Osorio said, "this is teers putting in hundreds of hours munity for its support." To play a part in the 50 t ' annia very exciting time for us. We're every week, provides direct praccelebratingtheachievementsofthe tical help, home visits, informa- versary celebrations, call Jacquie last 50 years and looking forward tion and advice, as well as work- Sheppard on 692166. to the next in a society which needs to value age and experience as At the Golden Jubilee Appeal launch, from left, Mike Brougham, chairman, never before, where older people appeal organiser Jacquie Sheppard, the Bishop of Swindon Rt Rev Michael

Art Exhibition

Doe, Mayoress Jenni Dean, Mayor David Cox, the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Sir Maurice Johnston, Director of Age Concern Swindon Jo Osorio

Saturday 16

Time to cash in Francs, marks and pesetas and other Euro currencies are now useless in Euroland. "Cash in those coins buried around the house," says BBC Wiltshire Sound's Shirley Ludford, below. "Age Concern can put them to good use whilst banks are still exchanging foreign currency." Put the coins in a bag or envelope and drop it into Age Concern, 14 Milton Road, Swindon or call 692166 if it's too heavy to carry.

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Older in Peatmoor Over 55s get together on the first Monday of the month at Peatmoor Community Primary School for coffee, tea and chat. Newcomers are invited to turn up and join in on Monday 4 March, 10am to 11.30am. The discussion will focus on future meetings, speakers and events. A very tasty start Friends and Food, a new weekly lunch club at Freshbrook Community Centre, has had a successful launch and is looking for more members to join. Fourteen people enjoyed a roast ers will be invited to talk about lunch on Monday 4 February, but topics of interest. Commenting on the cooking, Mo there are places for up to forty. Originally the plan was to have Welch from Uxbridge Road, lunch delivered from a school Freshbrook, said, "it was a lovely kitchen, but newly retired Carol tasty lunch. Carol and her volunGibbon from Rodbourne heard teer helpers have done us proud." The cost of lunch is £2.40 which that a cook was needed and volunhas to be booked by 11.30am on teered her services, Carol was brought up in a hotel the preceding Thursday. The club is open to any retired or and attended catering college bedisabled person in West Swindon. fore becoming a civil servant, Friends and Food offers more Call Lorraine Webb during office than just lunch. A social club opens hours on 871017 to make a bookat 10am for coffee, cards and a ing or if you can offer to help prechat. If members are keen, speak- pare, serve and clear up. Carol serves the first lunch at Friends and Food with volunteer helpers, standin;, ri;,'ht, Lorraine Webb and Pam Pixton

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10 The Link Magazine â€˘ March 2002

Residents pressure produces pub for isolated new community People living in Taw Hill are going to have a pub by Christmas after residents supported by their MP pressured developers Bryant Homes to sell the site at the entrance to the area, to a brewery and not build 32 flats. The February Link exclusively with Michael Wills MP on 8 Februreported the behind the scenes ne- ary. He said, "this is extremely good gotiations by residents and North news for people living in Taw Hill," Swindon MP Michael Wills to get said the MP. "I'm very glad that Bryants to make social facilities Bryants and Arkells have been able to come to an agreement. available. Last year Bryants told residents' Mark Edwards said eight association activist Mark Edwards months of letter writing had paid that they were looking for a use off. "We did not have high hopes which would most benefit share- about changing Bryant's intention holders, even though a pub had to build flats. So we're absolutely been shown on new house buyers' delighted that they have done a sales literature when the area was deal with Arkells. first developed. " Michael Wills has backed us all However an offer by Swindon the way; he has done a fantastic job they want and a survey is to be North Swindon MP Michael Wills visited the new Taw Hill medical cenbased Arkells Brewery has been in helping the people of Taw Hill." circulated to households. Other burning issues discussed tre and worship centre on 8 February. accepted by Bryants. The news was Residents were invited to put announced at a public meeting forward ideas for the kind of pub with the MP included the provi- Cutting the ribbon with Dr Peter sion and catchment area of a local Crouch, left, Dr June Morris, Rev primary school, the need for youth Ruth Cram holding her granddaughWhat's next for expansion? facilities in the area, plus noise and ter Elisha and practice manager Andrew Morgan Area panels around the town are being given a short presentation on signage on Thamesdown Drive. the future of Swindon's housing, jobs and countryside needs to stimulate debate on the relevant issues as the council draws up a draft local plan for the borough up to 2011. Some took place earlier in February. Area panels, which are open to Plans for the next stage of Swindon's growth in the Southern Develthe public, start at 7pm: opment Area (SDA), the land between Old Town and West Swindon North: 28 February, Haydon Wick Parish Council Offices, Thames and the M4, were put on display in February. Avenue; At this stage, the plans for the next to major roads. A site near East: 27 February, Wanborough village hall; 3,800 home development give a Blagrove has been designated for West: 7 March, Link Centre; general idea of how the land could a sports stadium next to a park and be used, taking into account noise ride, and sections of the North North-central: 14 March - to be arranged. from the major roads, traffic move- Wilts Canal will be restored. Road access is proposed from ment, wildlife and environmental requirements, including the need Rushey Platt and from Croft Road to build above the one hundred in the east along a route running parallel with the motorway to year flood line. Rolf Hawkins, development di- emerge at Hay Lane next to the rector for Bryant Homes who are railway bridge under the M4. Land working in partnership with Swin- has been designated for shops, don Borough Council, said all com- health centres and three primary ments made at the exhibition will schools. An option being considbe taken into account in the draw- ered by Swindon Council is reloing up of a master plan for the area cating Commonweal School from which will be presented to Swin- Old Town to a green field site in don Council planners towards the the SDA. end of the year. "This will set out the principles for the development Extra public exhibitions and the overall vision for the site. If you missed the displays in FebThe council will carry out a further ruary, the plans can be seen on consultation exercise next year; we Saturday 2 March, 11.30am to 4pm expect building could start in 2004." at the Ellendune Community Only fifty per cent of the SDA Hall, Wroughton. For information on the SDA, mail will be developed, the rest being used as open space, formal coun- swindonsda@dpds.co.uk or call try park areas and sound barriers 501614 during office hours.

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

Farming in the heart of Haydon Wick Alan Bushell meets Swindon's urban farmers Doug and Caryl Clifford Doug married Caryl in 1957 and As the development of houses, there still. The current owner is Doug they are both still actively involved shops, schools, churches and community facilities continues apace Clifford who was born on the farm in the day to day running of the at Priory Vale in North Swindon, in 1921, the eldest of three broth- farm, sharing duties with their son John. They now concentrate on beef one new and largely unseen fea- ers. In those days the farm concen- production, with a herd of over ture seems somewhat unusual: a tunnel for cattle has been built trated on milk production and as 100 head. Until recently, they were reunder the northern orbital road, an eleven year old Doug was required to milk four cows before stricted by the regulations imposed Thamesdown Drive. during the foot and mouth disease outbreak. But neither the problems facing the farming community in general, nor the urban development can deter the Cliffords from their intention to continue to farm in the heart of Haydon Wick.

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Doug and Caryl Clifford at Haydon End Farm

When brought into use, Haydon Farm will carry on business as usual, a rural enclave in an urban environment. It was in 1918 that John William Clifford drove 39 head of cattle from his erstwhile home in Purton Stoke and took up residence at Haydon Farm at the end of Haydon End Lane. The family is farming

No bomb found yet The Link reported in January 2000

on Alan Thipthorpe's concern that North Swindon developers might unearth a World War II bomb which he is convinced did not explode in a 1942 attack on the Garrard Factory, off Lady Lane. Alan, from Alan,holdinga Tooth ill , picture of a Stirling worked there making fuselages for Stirling bombers. "I was the last to get into the shelter on the night of the raid and heard three explosions. Having come from the London blitz, I knew the sound of falling bombs, and there were four. "I've always wondered if that bomb lies buried near Lady Lane." Digger drivers better watch out as construction starts to the west and north of the Garrard Factory, in Priory Vale.

setting off for Rodbourne Cheney School. All milking at the farm was done by hand until 1952 when a petrol driven engine was introduced. Electricity did not reach the farm until 1957. One of the two milking sheds was reputed to be the longest cowshed in Wiltshire. Pre-war, most of the milk was transported by horse and cart to Moredon Halt Station in 17 gallon churns (today 14 gallons is the norm). However, Doug can remember his father driving his horse and cartround Swindon, ladellingmilk into jugs and pans on the doorstep. Four or five horses provided the motive power on the farm until farmer C li fford acquired his first tractor in 1949.

Farming, of course, continued throughout the Second World War. Doug enlisted in the Home Guard with the responsibility for protecting the power station in Moredon. No landgirls graced the farm, but the war did make its mark just at the end when a Dakota aircraft crashed in a field close to the farmhouse, killing all seven airmen on board. In those days, Haydon End Lane provided access to five farms, all producing milk. Since then, one farm has become a plant nursery Grange Farm Garden Centre which many readers will have visited two farms have been demolished and the land acquired for development, and one farmhouse has been converted into a private home.

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Priory Vale needs to be a green community say Friends of the Earth Environmentalist Jean Saunders of Swindon Friends of the Earth is calling upon house developers in North Swindon to think to the future and build environmentally sustainable houses with higher levels of heat insulation, solar panels to reduce energy demands and water recycling systems.

FoE are largely much the same as we responsible for the have seen in the past; improved design of externally different perthe 5,500 home ";\y haps, but still energy and Priory Vale developresource inefficient inDare to , ment which was ofside." ficially launched in Eddie Bedwell from be November. Hayden Wick agrees. different Construction 'There is more to good should have started house design than lookr7 twelve months earing good. A recent report lier but was delayed for the European Policy after FoE successForum states, 'compared or stick fully appealed to the to our EU partners, housA part of the new and updated North Swindon reap to be newly elected Lawith ing in Britain is often ex3~., published by The Link in April. See page 30 to advertise. bour government in pensive, badly built and tradition 1^ 1997 to look again at Development at Abbey Meads often of poor quality of design.' the North Swindon environment. and St Andrews Ridge, to the east "In Priory Vale (or the Front There had been minimal consid- of Lady Lane, was well underway Garden for that matter) will there 0 eration in the early 1990s, after a at the time of the 1997 election, but be any attempt to build to higher HAWKINS ST PERCY ST O planning enquiry into Swindon the Secretary of State for the Envi- than minimum requirements of THE Council's (then Thamesdown) ob- ronment John Prescott took the energy and water use efficiency. F[R ENTRE P R1 CENTRE P. jections to private sector expan- unusual step of reversing an ear- Or even offer buyers these options? DOLPHIN M OUTLET VILLAGE O sion in the north. The Secretary of lier ministerial decision and de- The additional costs of such feaNORTH D PUB 0 CAR PARK State had agreed to the 10,000 home manded a study of the land to the tures could be small and would be development without any assess- west of Lady Lane which has be- paid off in a few years." VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS AT: ment of the impact that such a come Priory Vale. Priory Vale will cover 640 acres, 1 RODBOURNE ROAD, large urban area would have on A statement on highway and en- 390 of which will be used for resiSWINDON SN2 2AG the environment and the town in vironmental issues such as nature dential purposes. Using new govTEL/FAX: (01793) 612288 general. conservation, archaeology, drain- ernment guidelines on urban deage, open space provision and pub- velopment set out in the document lic transport had to be produced Better Places to Live the layout will which influenced the design of the be very different to anything yet seen in Swindon. There will be master plan for the area. As a result open space areas, three character areas: an urban core isolated in earlier plans, were area with higher density town linked to provide wildlife corri- houses with a village centre dedors. More bus routes were desig- signed along the lines of a small nated, and the amount of car park- country town, a formally designed ing in area, and a less densely built semirural part. Priory Vale Liz Lewis for Crest Nicholson, is going to one of the major house builders, be lower than previsaid developers are very keen to Quarter Sesame chicken on toast, ensure environmental protection ous new OR at Priory Vale. "Crest Nicholson aromatic urban destuffed crab claws & have undertaken a variety of key velopcrispy duck sweet & sour spare ribs measures to protect wildlife at their ments to encourage Braydon Mead development at Priory Vale. An important people to Roast pork with ginger Lemon meadow is to be retained and is use public OR & spring onions chicken now designated as Haydon transport. However Jean Saunders, above, Meadow SSSI and they have prois concerned that house builders tected the majority of existing trees Beef with green peppers in black bean sauce could do more. "Whilst the Friends and hedgerows. In addition, tens Deep fried shredded chicken in chill sauce of the Earth intervention may have of thousands of new trees will be Fried rice, prawn crackers, fortune cookies led to a slightly better deal for wild- planted. "Ponds and suitable habitat have life, the development west of Lady Lane is a wasted opportunity to been retained and created throughPlease note: the special menu cannot be changed create a self-contained community out the area to ensure conservathat is not dependent on travelling tion of Great Crested Newts in their b j b out of the area by car. The devel- natural habitats, whilst newt and ;.s II opers could have provided a model badger fencing and tunnels have for housing of the future by build- been provided under Thamesing the most energy and water ef- down Drive." LJ ficient homes, and using designs Several builders will be on site that are more sympathetic to the by the end of the year. Crest have environment. opened a show site and a Priory "I'm afraid the housing will be Vale visitor centre opens in July. C

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

Sikh temple becomes new landmark in the town After a twelve year search for a new worship site, Swindon's Sikh community celebrated the opening of a new Gurdwara or temple in late January. Building project manager Gurdwara is a building of beauty Many of the town's 300 Sikh vulnerability to crime. With a capacity of 800 people, Jaswant Singh Grewal said, "this and elegance of which we are all families with hundreds of friends from around the country took part the temple is the largest in the West is the only place of worship for the very proud." The Mayor of Swindon coun in a procession from the former and is open daily for religious ob- Sikh community in Wiltshire. The David Cox said the temtemple in Old Town to the 1 ple is a landmark buildnew building on Kembrey ing for the town and he Street for a day of prayer congratulated Sikhs in which was attended by the town for achieving members of other faiths, such a magnificent succivic leaders, the police cess. and builders Crampton Sikhism was estabLeighfield. lished by Guru Nanak in Named in honour of the 1469 and is based on the founder of the Sikh reliprinciples of peace, hargion Sri Guru Nanak, the mony, mutual respect temple took 46 weeks to and the belief that all hubuild and cost £1.2 milman beings are children lion, funded entirely by of the same God. the Sikh community, and Mr Grewal said the supporters locally and in Gurdwara management other countries. committee welcomed Dark orange on the outvisitors of all faiths and side topped with a golden also children studying reThe Mayor of Swindon David Cox and the Mayoress Jenni Dean dome, inside on two stooutside the Gurdwara with the management committee ligion at school. reys there is a large prayer hall, a library, classrooms, kitchens and dining area. At the servances and education. As part opening Chief Superintendent Ian of the planning consent, the temic Maidment, Swindon Divisional ple management committee has to Commander, presented the Wilt- build a community centre on an shire Police Secure by Design adjacent site for use by Gorse Hill award in recognition of the effort residents. They expect to do this More commuters are made to minimise the building's within five years.

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which stands as a deteriorating eyesore to the town's heritage. New Mechanics Preservation Trust member Martha Parry said she hoped it would endorse a consultants study commissioned by the trust in 1996 funded by the Architectural Heritage Fund. "Our study showed it was viable to return it to being a cultural, arts and community centre, a modern day version of its original 19th an d 20th Century use by Swindon's railway workers." The Mechanics Institute is a Grade II I building and appears on the English Heritage buildings at risk register, largely due to the campaigning by the New Mechanics Preservation Trust.

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14 The Link Magazine • Marc h 2002

Hreod Parkway turning the corner A team of Her Majesty's Inspectors visited Hreod Parkway School for inspection in November and have identified clear progress which the school is making on its post Ofsted Action Plan. Headteacher Andrew Fleet said has been successful. ough officers on a plan for further ary whether to release £295,000 to the inspectors commented on the The earliest this could open is investment in the buildings and be spent on new doors and winsystematic and thorough way in September 2004. However essen- additional accommodation to pro- dows, improved fire safety and which the school is being moved tial repairs to Hreod are needed in vide a good learning environment, external lighting as well as providforward. "HMI were pleased with the short term. Mr Fleet said the The Swindon Council cabinet ing new security fencing for the the progress which the school has school had worked with the bor- meeting will decide in late Febru- school's extensive sites. made on all the educational issues identified by the Ofsted report last Early Maths celebrations at Hreod Spring. But they expressed con- Twentyseven year r r U their cernabouttheprogressonimprovpupils who entered thei Mathuls who ht ing the school's accommodation." ematics GCSE in November have The government will announce just achieved outstanding results. later in the year if the Swindon Two pupils gained A* grades Council bid for Private Finance 3 ^. and therewere 17grade As, 7grade a-funding for two new secondary Bs and 1 grade C. The group is now schools to serve North Swindon ,► , studying fora further GCSE in Statistics alongside their other subjects to be examined in June. U v.Q`4C. ' co Juliette Baldwin, Mathematics a ^p'n'la%y Faculty Leader, is delighted by the worked extremely hard with the days and putting in extra time at SFgy`GQ' achievement. "As well as the nor- maths staff to achieve these re- home. They truly deserve their i/V4 • mal in-class work the pupils sults,attendingafterschoolonFri- success." Swindon Adult Placement Service are looking for Oxbridge bound Quiz teams wanted people with experience who Eleven New College students The Friends of Brook Field School could offer support and have been offered places at eiare looking for teams to enter a accommodation to people ther Oxford and Cambridge yam, quiz night on 26 April, 7pm to with mental health problems Universities. start at 7.30pm. They include Steve Raw from Ongoing training and The cost is £2 per person, with a Shaw and Gavin Pickett from support given. maximum of 6 people per team. Grange Park, who attended Food and drinks (soft drinks, wine Interested? Then call Braden Forest and Ian Harris and beer) will be available. Nicky or Karen IL who went to Hreod Parkway. Steve, Ian and Gavin on 01793 486210

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Youngsters from Haydon Wick School and Hreod Parkway School have brought life back to a bus shelter at The Brow in Haydon Wick. Working with local artist Susan Carr, children were asked to put forward ideas for mosaic panels. The winning designs of shells, starfish, seabirds, buckets and spades were made by the youngsters and then integrated into two long panels which have been mounted inside the shelter on a painted sea side background. Haydon Wick parish council has responsibility for maintaining the shelter and chairman Richard Hailstone said he was delighted by the results. "This is the third time the shelter has been decorated by local young people in about twenty years. There will be adults around who worked on previous artworks. The latest designs are very good." Susan, who is artist in residence at Hreod Parkway, said the youngsters had enjoyed the project. "The shelter is on the main route which many children walk to school; lots have mentioned the sea side scene. It gives them a sense of ownership; I hope the mosaic will be protected." Sea view, from left, Kirsty Lewis, Danny Mead, Susan Carr, Jodie Bracewell, Paul Squires, Melanie Oborne, Katherine Arrell, Renee-Zimmer McCrea, Nicole Willis. Standing, Rachael Collins, Samantha Peaple, Richard Hailstone

The Link Magazine • March 2002

West secondary crisis avoided as council commits £3m to Greendown expansion The spectre of up to another sixty West Swindon children taking a bus to secondary school from September has been avoided after Swindon Council's cabinet decided on 13 February to spend between £2 and £3 million on more classrooms, an assembly hall and dining area, offices and toilets at Greendown School in Grange Park. ents that the DepartThe council estiment for Education mates that 150 extra I and Skills recogCit,endo5. places are required 1 that Greenfor West Swindo Scharr! . .,,. t ,1(1nln, down should exchildren over the pand, but had made next five years it clear that the counthirty a year. cil would have to Greendown has find the cost from its 1,264 pupils on roll own resources. ,\ and a capacity of Mr Doherty said 1,277, an intake of the council had a 255 children a year. statutory obligation The council is askto provide school ing the school to take places and either 285 children a year. A had to expand This September there is an even greater shortfall of Greendown orbus children all over places for children now in year 6 the town to schools such as Hreod and the intake could be around 300. Parkway and Headlands where The accommodation problem there are places. At the meeting Steve O'Sullivan, has been building up and has been discussed by council officers and above, Greendownheadteacher, said school governors over the last three the school was completely full and years. The decision by the cabinet more children would compromise means most of Swindon Council's safety and the quality of education £4.1 millionbudget for capital works on offer. Andrew Basson, chair of goveris absorbed, leaving schools all over the borough desperate for major re- nors, said the problem was the pairs and refurbishment. Other council's to sort out and welcomed projects will be fighting for what's the decision to allocate the money left, including fitting out the North for new buildings. He added that governors had Swindon library and youth centre, improvements to social services agreed expansion could only take care homes and replacing ice plant place on certain conditions. "In 1998 we agreed to increase the equipment at the Link Centre. At a consultation meeting in school roll by 210 places. The'temmid-January at Greendown, Swin- porary' buildings put up then cost don Council chief executive Paul El.1 million, £250,000 over budget. Doherty, who has taken over the Regrettably they are of substandduties of the chief education of- and quality and are plagued with ficer Mike Lusty who is recovering constant problems. The school now from an accident, explained to par- has an expensive ongoing maintenance programme. "We are committed to working with the council to take another 150 children, but we are not going ' to accept inadequate buildings which drain our resources and create difficulties for our teachers." Kingsdown School He added that the governors will reunions require the council to provide upfront funding for the extra chilPupils who left in July 1978 dren. "Schools only receive money Saturday 13 April, 7.30pm, for the children on roll in April Coleview Community Centre and Greendown does not have the Tickets £3, from Mandy Lister 875100, cash to pay for additional teachers Deborah Miles 771438 or and support staff to educate a furLee Drinkwater 436096 ther 50 to 60 students for the seven Pupils who attended between 1976 months from September to April. and 1981 (1982) If the full council agrees the exSaturday 4 May, 7.30pm - 11.30pm penditure, conversion of science Grange Drive Community Centre labs will take place this summer, Tickets: £5 including buffet & disco. and two mobiles will be installed Proceeds to Prospect Hospice. for one year, whilst building work Call Caroline 'Shirley' on 828813 takes place ready for September or 0790 5834097 2003.

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Children's Information Service Swindon 13 Market Street, Swindon (by the big top) Tel: (01793) 541786

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One 1playgroup celebrates 21st year as another closes down Freshbrook playgroup is looking for young adults and former supervisors who attended or worked in the playgroup in Freshbrook community centre over the last 21 years. The pre-school which owned its Now there are no playgroups in A fete and fun afternoon is being planned for Saturday 6 July, own building off Beaumaris Road Toothill, although the area has two followed by an evening barbeque opened in 1988 and became very free school-based nurseries. The with bar. well supported and popular. Over other is at Toothill primary school. "It was a sad day when we had If you remember your pre-school the last few years its viability came days in Freshbrook, contact Linda under increasing pressure as to tell parents that we could no Jacobs, on 320663 or Amanda Steel schools started to take children longer carry on," said pre-school on 638352. Any photographs of earlier, and a free nursery opened secretary Janet Freeguard. She is now negotiating to displaygroup activities will be wel- in nearby Oliver Tomkins infant pose of the building. comed. school. In December, Kiln Park preschoolinBeaumarisRoad,Toothill Peatmoor Playmates held a party to mark the second anniversary since it had to close because a permanent formed on 7 February. The group meets on Thursday, 9.45am to 11.45am supervisor could notbe appointed. during term time at Ronghmoor Social hall. Newcomers are always welcome. Call Amrabel Grouvel on 879665 for details.

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18 The Link Magazine • March 2002

Be a Pow! woman Brands, logos and labels are so important nowadays, often unconsciously. Companies spend millions developing and protecting them, and even more trying to get us to display them. Yet women wear hidden labels "Pow! will new approach all through their lives: mum, meet 12 times a to women granny, the missus, 'er indoors, year; it will be a working tochief cook and bottle washer. Even social event gether. Call it when positive, they are often per- with a speaker, 'unselfish netceived in a negative way. and in between working' where Now women in Swindon have we'll also be members gain the chance to strip away the labels running workconfidence to and discover different aspects of shops and social discover their themselves by joining 'Pandemo- activities in reabilities and renium of Women' or Pow! for short. sponse to memdiscover those Launched on 20 February, Pow! ber requests." they think they is the brainchild of Ellen Lee from The topics for have lost. Haydon Wick, Linden Ruskin from the first two "If you beChippenham, Merwyn Manson evenings are: lieve 'you're from Bradford-upon-Avon and Tuesday 5 March: Facing New only a housewife,' think again. Geraldine Broadley from Sussex Challenges - a fun, action packed You're an organiser, a planner, a who decided that there is a need evening to get to know others and negotiator and problem solver, it's for a new kind of group which de-stress yourself incredible what women do unconcombines education, social activiWednesday 10 April: Women sciously. Pow! is going to provide ties and a positive recognition that and money - a jargon free practical a positive framework for women women approach life differently insight into why women treat fi- to leave those labels behind." to men. nance differently. The monthly meetings will take "There's no question, over the The first workshop in March is place at The Madison Inn in last fifty years women have be- called 'I want some of what she's Stratton (off the A420). The ancome far less restricted in what we got.' nual cost of joining will be £96 can do, but we are still categorised Linden believes Pow! is going to with a £1 donation going to Swinat work and at home. All four of us be different to other women's don Women's Aid, but attendance run different businesses and we groups and the four founder mem- at meetings is free. know how these labels can limit bers see new clubs springing up To find out more, call Ellen Lee our outlook. So we've decided to across the town and around the on 729176 between midday and deal with it by setting up Pow! as a country. 5pm, or mail: eelee@nascr.net, or not for profit club which appeals "Two of us are from a training go to www.pownetwork.net to women of all ages and back- background and we all run our grounds. own businesses. We're trying a

National Childbirth Trust nearly new sale Sunday 13 April, 11am - 1pm Oasis Leisure Centre

Children's clothes (0-4 years), maternity wear, cots, prams and other nursery equipment, toys and books will be available. To sell items, with a 30% commission to the NCT, send large SAE, to: NCT Seller's Packs, 5 The Mountings, Wroughton SN4 9SD Volunteers are needed forthe sale. Call the helpers co-ordinator on 340691.

March courses The WEA Women's Branch are running three courses next month. Exploring crafts:

6weekly meetings beginning Monday4 March. 7pm to 9pm, atToothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. £27 Reflexology for self-help: 6 weekly meetings beginning Thursday 7 March, 7pm to 9pm, at the Health Hydro, Milton Road. £27 Bicycle maintenance:

Howto maintain yourown bike and complete minor repairs. Saturday 9 March, 10am to 4pm. £14 Reductions for women on benefit. For details, call 618233.

International Women's Day Friday 8 March, 11am to 3pm

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A day of celebration for women organised by the Swindon Women's Coalition at the Broadgreen Centre, Salisbury Street. There will be lots of stalls and information from groups and organisations on a wide variety of subjects of interest to women. Activities going on all day will include taster treatments in aricular acupuncture and massage and a nurse will be available to check blood pressure. Workshops

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West Swindon Womens' World Day of Prayer A service will be held on Friday 1 March at St Peter's Catholic Church, Caronbridge Road, Westlea, 7.30pm with the theme of 'Reconciliation' written by women in Romania.

Race for life at Lydiard now taking bookings Sunday 9 June, 11am

Why not let us handle everything f om start to finish? Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lower Wa n bo r ough. SN4 OAS

A women only run, jog or walk around Lydiard Park in aid of Cancer Research UK, sponsored by Tesco. Pick up a leaflet at a Swindon Council leisure centre, call 08705 134 314 or register online at www.raceforlife.co.uk

The Link Magazine • March 2002

A marathon: I can do that Denise Jones writes of her experiences on the Moonwalk in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Bristol Cancer Help Centre cup of tea. I don't know where our Moonwalk in The Link energy came from, but we magazine, in January felt so proud about cross2001 and a friend asked ing that line. It was not a if I was interested. Yes, race, but it was a feeling of I thought I could manself achievement and doage a few miles, I'm ing it for all those women quite fit with six dogs who through cancer cannot and two horses, so this at the moment do the walk should be no problem, themselves. I shall be walkbut little did I know ing for them again this year. what lay ahead. I raised £750 for BreakTraining walks through from friends and started at the Link Cenrelatives. The 200 Swindon tre on Tuesday eveTwin Peaks walkers last nings. Week one my year raised about £40,000 friend Lindsey and I and £30,000 the year before. were there in old trainSo if you want to take on ers, jogging trousers a challenge, come and join and a windsheeter. Off Some of Twin Peaks 2002 team, who will this year be joined by the Mayor of Swindon us at the Link Centre. we went, Eunice in David Cox, at a planning meeting in the council chamber. Denise is pictured front centre. Alternatively sponsor a front, and as we didn't want to lose the way we tried to part in has been to chase my kids all out to take part for a good cause. Moonwalker by calling Eunice Pasta eaten, photos taken, Salmon on 871606 or keep her in sight. To be honest, the about for 18 years. Walking my speed was such a shock, Lindsey dogs is nothing like walking with Eunice, my friend and I got as close eunice.salmon @ntlworld.com and I arrived back about ten min- Eunice. The next few weeks got a to the starting line as we could, little easier and I looked forward and waited to go. We set off and by utes after the others. Week two: this time I was defi- to Tuesday nights even if the luck managed to get to the front. nitely going to keep up. It was weather always seemed appalling. Walking along the River Thames, The Hilton, Swindon hard not ever having walked at It was nice making new friends over Tower Bridge, it was a lovely this speed before. I really felt I and we all felt part of a team, what- sight. Thousands of women, both ••• Nail extensions would never be able to do this for ever speed we were walking. By sides of the river people cheering :• StTropez tanning 26 miles, as we only did four miles. the time May came my bra was us on, taxi drivers tooting their horns asking us what it was for, it But I sent in my entry form and felt decorate and I was very excited. v Body wraps We travelled by coach to Lon- made me feel very proud. Before I good about doing so. •'• Massage You have to bear in mind I am don and arrived in plenty of time, knew it, it was 5am and we were v VirginVie consultant not a youngster, although not old. the atmosphere was great. Seven passing the Dorchester Hotel. That The only real exercise I've taken thousand women and a few men, was the lowest point, tired and Evening & weekend appointments hungry, but we kept each other Mobile service available Ten in a bar going and before long we only had For a friendly and one more mile to go. Eunice and I Singing Bach to the Beatles and beyond professional service call felt stronger than ever. I think it Immanuel Church, Upham Road 01793 886863 or was the thought that finishing also Proceeds to Breakthrough Breast Cancer Swindon Branch 07720 051013 meant we could sit down with a Tickets £5 (£4 concs) on the door or from Shirley Garman, 538475; Angie, 790325; Ange, 783509 I read about the

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Open gardens for Breakthrough Denise Jones and neighbours in Old Shaw Lane are throwing open their gardens on 15 and 16 June. Could you join them, to show off your garden, sell plants and serve cream teas in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer? The Link will be sponsoring a map showing where all the open gardens are located, but to register call Denise Jones on 778070 or Lesley Dredge on 772869 or mail: rwjonesirons@ukonline.co.uk

The Mayor of Swindon's Charity Ball Saturday 20 April, 7pm to lam Blunsdon House Hotel Black tie • Four course banquet • Tickets £35 Proceeds to the Mayor's charities: Breakthrough Breast Cancer Swindon branc The Rowdy Bunch disabled youth club, Los Hogos De Los Ancianos elderly persons home in Ocotol Councillor David Cox: "This is going to be a sparkling occasion with live local entertainment to suit a variety of tastes. I'd like many people to join me at this great fund raising event." Details from the Ma y or's office, tel: 463002

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20 The Link Magazine • March 2002

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Freshbrook and Grange Park beat officer PC Rob Mortimer is holding a postcode marking session at Freshbrook Community Centre in April and is keen for readers to provide him with lots of business. At a similar session a year ago The postcode sessions take place he and Neighbourhood Watch of- on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 April, ficer Patty Holt engraved post- 10am to 4pm at Freshbrook Corncodes on well over 100 bicycles, munity Centre. scooters and even an ice hockey For home security information ,, t stick. and details of Neighbourhood "This is a family event," said Watch, call Patty Holt at the Crime Patty. "We welcome adults and Prevention Office on 507864. kids to have expensive bikes and • Last year in the Swindon police scooters postcoded which gives us division, 567 freestanding bicycles a chance to return them if stolen." left in the garden, the street or ^^t Patty and Rob will be encourag- outside shops were stolen. The low ing owners to take extra measures point was in February with only ♦ /'f by providing information on how 22 thefts, rising to 69 during Au! to secure bikes and valuable items. gust. ^f; By comparison, 222 were stolen ^/^ from sheds and garages.

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Swindon gets jazzed up: 24 - 28 April

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The second Swindon Arts Jazz Festival embraces an even wider range of jazz - trad, funky, swing - and brings some top names to perform in Old Town, the town centre and the Outlet Village, writes Rosa Matheson. Launched at lunchtime on Thursday 25 April at Sudburys Jaguar Centre, the festival comes alive with funky, retro jazz at O'Neil's Music Rooms and trad jazz at the Kings Arms on Thursday night. Top of the bill is jazz legend Acker Bilk MBE and his Paramount Jazz Men, well-loved and well known for their hit 'Stranger on the shore' with a concert on Friday 26 April in the 600 seat Jazz Cafe Marquee at the Outlet Village. A 'Jolly Brolly Parade' through the town centre on Saturday morning will keep the party spirit going. Bands, clowns, and dancers will mingle amongst the decorated brolly paraders. Join in and you could win prizes. Charities and voluntary organisations are welcome to take part with their own brollies and shake their collection buckets. A full Saturday of the very best of jazz can be found in Old Town with a special visit by 'The Best of British Jazz' featuring Radio 2 and Jazz FM presenter Campbell Burnap at the Kings Arms. Saturday night is festival party

Still going strong and in Swindon Acker Bilk night when New Orleans meets Carnival - cool jazz, hot party. Don't miss out. If you're a fan of swing you must not miss the Ray Gelato Giants, chosen by Robbie Williams to open his show at the Albert Hall, performing Sunday lunchtime in the Jazz Cafe Marquee. And Swindon's own talented musicians are showcased in Old Town, the Brunel

Panto steaming towards us Swindon was the first town in the South West out of the station in February to launch their panto for next Christmas. Dick Whittington will be making his way to the Wyvern Theatre with a quick return visit to the Museum of the Great Western Railway STEAM. After this year's massive success with Cinderella, general manager Ted Doan is hoping for another sell out season. The full cast will be announced later in the year. Ready for a great show, Ted Doan with Jamie Walker and Nicki Western as Dick at STEAM

Arcade and Plaza and in the Marquee with special performances by 'Swindon's Big Six' featuring our own Jamie Cullum who blends Harry Connick and Robbie Williams. To round off, fans of long-time favourite Terry Lightfoot and his band can catch them on Sunday 29 April at the Arts Centre in Old Town. All in all a festival not to be missed. Tickets are available from: Wyvern Box Office, tel. 524481 Arts Centre Box Office, tel. 614837 (Terry Lightfoot band) For full festival details, call Swindon Arts, tel. 463197.

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joe Brown This brand new Joe Brown Special takes the form of an intimate musical journey ... this is one journey you'll definitely want to take!

Friday 22nd March at 8.00pm Tickets £13.00

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Just the mention of Tutankhamun instantly conjures up a picture of his glorious golden mask. The mask – or a precise replica of it - is just one of over 300 amazing treasures of Tutankhamun and other pharaohs of ancient Egypt that will be on show in Bristol from 8 March to 13 April in an exhibition that has delighted some million and a half people in mainland Europe, and nearly 200,000 in the UK.

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And with ancient Egypt a major topic in the national curriculum for primary school children. here's a great opportunity to win family tickets to the fantastic exhibition at the Empire and Commonwealth Museum in Bristol. The exhibits are exquisite and exact replicas of the originals that are on display in the Cairo Museum, in Luxor and other museums around the world. With a replacement value of £3.5 million the items have been crafted in the workshops of the Cairo Museum by skilled artists, often using original techniques, as well as gold leaf and semi-precious stones. Over one hundred exhibits are replicas of the major treasures found in the tomb of Tutankhamun in Egypt's Valley of the Kings by archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922 – including three golden sarcophagi, his throne and his worldrenowned golden death mask - one of the greatest discoveries of all ti me. The treasures of Tutankhamun travelled the world between 1950 and 1981 to popular acclaim until

experts agreed that the priceless items could be damaged. In addition to the Tutankhamun treasures there are replicas of some 200 treasures from Egypt such as the Rosetta stone (the original is in the British Museum) and the bust of Nefertiti (original in the Berlin Museum). Constantly running videos give the historical background to the exhibition. The exhibition is open at the Empire and Commonwealth Museum, Temple Meads, Bristol seven days a week: 1 Oam to 8pm. Tickets can be bought on the day: adults £6.50; children £4; famil y (2 adults. 2 children) £18.50. Exhibition details and group booking information can be found at www.egyptiantreasures.co.uk or by calling 0117 9254980.

Competition We have ten family tickets worth £18.50 each. Write to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD and tell us where Tutankhamun's tomb is located in Egypt. Closing date 14 March.

New premises for Loose Ends Long time Link advertisers, Loose Ends, have moved to a new spacious showroom in a tranquil setting at Priory Place, Hankerton, near Malmesbury, off the B4040.

The range of fabrics is diverse and most are bought in 40m rolls which are usually discontinued or overstock lines. However there are also many current fabrics, from chintzes, printed cottons and linens to the chenilles and textured fabrics which are so popular today. Experienced staff are on hand to guide you with your soft furnishing queries, along with a making up service. We look forward to seeing many of you again and welcome you with a cup of coffee whilst you browse. For further information see the advertisement on page 3 or call 01666 575300.

Swindon Wide Learning about Lydiard's past An exhibition of work by students on a course run jointly by English Heritage and the Oxford University Department for Continuing Education at National Monuments Record Centre (NMRC) can be seen at the West Swindon library until 8 March.

Swindon Society 13 March, 7.30pm Broad Green Centre, Salisbury Street, Swindon Members will talk about their current research activities into Swindon's past and discuss slide and photographic collections.

The eighteen students who enrolled for the Understanding Past Landscapes course focused on the history of the local parishes of Lydiard Tregoze and Lydiard Millicent, using the extensive resources held at the NMRC, including historic and aerial photographs. archaeological and architectural surveys and reports. The exhibition shows changes in the agriculture and land use over time; a survey of the listed buildings and monuments in the area to the south of the M4 formerly known as the Midgehall Tything: an analysis of the historic paths and driveways leading to Lydiard Park. and a survey of Hay Lane which is the parish boundary between Lydiard Tregoze and Wroughton.

Newcomers and visitors are always welcome to join and discover how Swindon's visual heritage is being preserved and made available to a wider audience.

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A 1946 aerial photo of Lydiard Park clearly showing the camp used at different times by American soldiers, as a hospital and for prisoners of war. Later the huts became home for Swindon families during the post war housing shortage. Nowadays the area is used for events and team games. Photo: Sortie 540/1777 Frame F22 0162 Flown 6-9-46 © Crown Copyright 1946

Monument Record Centre

Learning advice service in the library Steps To Learning is expanding its service to offer information and advice about learning and career opportunities to adults at West Swindon Library on Wednesdays, 10am to 12.30pm from 6 March. There's advice available on changing direction, how to apply for jobs, how to write a CV and how to improve skills as well. It's a drop in, no appointment necessary service offering information on all levels of learning and career opportunities, from return to work courses to people finding out postgraduate courses, as well as hobbies and interests such as tap dancing or computing The service is a partnership with Lifetime Careers Wiltshire, Swindon College, New College, Taurus Skills Foundation, the Employment Service, the WEA, the Swindon and Wiltshire Library Services, Swindon Borough Council, Working For Opportunities and Back On Track Third Age Challenge. Steps To Learning advisors can also be found at • PenhillCommunityCentre1Oam to 12pm and Park South Commu-

nity Shop, Cavendish Square 2pm to 4pm, first Tuesday ofthe month;

• Walcot Community Shop Sussex Square - first Thursday of the month, 10am-12noon; • Richard Jefferies Building, New College. Fridays 10am to 12pm • Nythe Learning Centre, Thursdays 7pm to 9pm; • Swindon Job Centre, Monday 9.30am to 11.30am, Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am to 4.30pm (but not on first Tuesday and Thursdays of the month). Careers counselling to give p00pie more in-depth guidance in helping them to change direction is also offered. Normally there is a charge. But until 31 March, this is offered free to those working less than 16 hours aweek, unemployed, or with a disability. For details, ring Alain Lewis on 586142 or mail to alainlewis @steps-to-learning.org.uk

Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth, Swindon Tel: 0 I 79 763939 www.rovesfarm.co.uk Wednesday to Sunday and daily during

school holidays 11 am - Spin

OPENING SATURDAY 9th MARCH • The world's largest living willow maze • Meet and feed the animals • Tractor and trailer rides all season • Huge big bale straw stack & bouncy castle • Adventure play area and giant sandpit • Indoor heated toddlers soft play area • Animal racing • Crafty half hour • Toddler story time during term time Granary tea rooms Barn dances & wedding receptions Children's birthday parties

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Music Friday 1st, 7.30pm Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra featuring works by Weber, Schubert and Paganini. £13.50 £18.50. Wyvern Saturday 2nd, 8pm Jackie Leven. A distinctive guitarist with a memorable vocal style, this uncompromisingly original Scotsman is a haunting performer and one of Britain's great under-recognised songwriters. £7.50. Arts Centre

Venues The Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 The National Monuments Record Centre Kemble Drive. Tel: 414600 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios Regent Circus. Tel: 463210 The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square. Tel: 524481

Sunday 2nd, 7.30pm Abba Gold, Boney M and David Van Day's Bucks Fizz Show. Featuring some of the greatest recording artists ever. £16.50. Wyvern Sunday 3rd, 7.45pm Kentwood Choir singing in aid of furnishings forthe church. £5. Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads. Tickets from 706558 Sunday 3rd, 7pm The UK Unsigned Talent Quest presented by SABA. Heat two of the national search forthe country's best unsigned vocalist. Entry forms to take part from SABA on 0208 696 7003. Tickets £7. Arts Centre Tuesday 51h, 8pm Andy Sheppard, (below) one of the finest tenor and soprano saxophonists around, playing with percussionist Stephane San Juan. £10. Arts Centre

Saturday 9th March, 7.30pm Ashton Keynes Philharmonia 10th Anniversary Concert. Programme to include music by- Elgar, Teleman and Delius. Donations to be made to the Swindon Samaritans. Holy Cross Church, Ashton Keynes. £5 and £2.50, tickets from Beconsfield Stores, Ashton Keynes or on the door Saturday 9th, 8pm Brendan Croker and Kevin Coyne. Two of Britain's most respected blues singer-songwriters come together to promote their first joint album, 'Life's Almost Perfect', £10. Arts Centre Sunday 10th, 3pm Philip Moore and Simon Crawford Philips. A varied programme of piano duets from a pair who have been playing together since 1995, including Debussey, Schubert, Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite and Stravinsky's Firebird. £8. Arts Centre Monday 11th to 23rd The 93rd Annual Swindon Music Festival. 9am, 1.30pm and 6.30pm sessions each day, omitting Sunday, of competitive music classes. Tickets available on the day only. Arts Centre. Details from the box office. Tuesday 12th to Saturday 16th, 7.30pm lolanthe presented by Swindon Gilbert & Sullivan Society. Languid lords and fun-filled fairies battle it out in Parliament. From £6. Wyvern

Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Saturday 16th, 8pm The St John Passion by Bach

performed by Swindon Choral Society, accompanied by Chameleon Arts Ensemble and conducted by David Truslove. £9. Holy Rood Church, Groundwell Road. (Tickets from Arts Centre box office) Saturday 16th, 8pm An Abba Night, presented by Abba Girls who give an entertaining show with dazzling costume changes. Over 18s only. £8, includes ploughmans supper). Commonweal School, The Mall. Organised by PTA, tickets on 612727 Sunday 17th, 2pm & 7pm Swindon Young Musicians Gala featuring all senior groups playing a variety of styles from rock to jazz to classical. £6. Wyvern

DEACONS Visit Deacons China and Gift Shop . . .. for that perfect gift for Mothering Sunday 10th March Oliv riiver _

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Alexander O'Neal at the Wyvern on Sunday 24th March Wednesday 20th & Thursday 21st, 7.30pm; Friday 22nd, 7pm Grease. Westonbirt School's Dance, Drama and Music departments present the popular 50s rock 'n' roll musical. £5. Westonbirt School, tel: 01666 880333

Friday 22nd, 8pm This brand new Joe Brown Special takes the form of an intimate musical journey. £13. Wyvern. Saturday 23rd, 7pm Chedworth Band. Proceeds to the Church Organ/Gen. Fund. £4, tickets on the door or call 693239. St Augustine's Church, Summers Street, Rodbourne Saturday 23rd, 7.30pm The Band of the Brigade of Gurkhas presented by Swindon Male Voice Choir. £10. Wyvern Sunday 24th, 8pm Alexander O'Neal, with his gospel singing style proving he can deliver both tender love ballads and funky up-tempo numbers with equal amounts of strength, confidence and pure emotion. £16.50. Wyvern Monday 25th, 8pm The Blockheads. Much loved classics as well as Ian Duty's final songs from this brilliant live act. £15. Arts Centre Wednesday 27th, 7.30pm Queen's Jubilee Celebrations featuring the Central Band of the Royal Air Force. £12. Wyvern Thursday 28th, 7.30pm Forever In Blue Jeans. Rock n' roll, classic films, musicals, country, pop, new country, line dance, from the 50s to the 90s, all the hits in one great show. £11. Wyvern

Sunday 31st, 7.45pm. Mozart by Candlelight. An evening of entertainment featuring top London musicians The Locrian Ensemble in period costume in an evocative candlelit setting. £11, Wyvern

On in Mcrih Film Wednesday 6th, 7.45pm A One and a Two (18) Edward Yang's engrossing and satisfying film is a universal comment on modern middleclass life and its discontents. Arts Centre. SFS Tuesday 26th, 7.45pm The Pledge (15) A child murder haunts retired cop Jerry Black, whose determination to track down the killer has chilling consequences. Starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Mirren. £3.50. Arts Centre Sunday 24th, 7.45pm In The Mood For Love (PG) A lyrical love story of two neighbours, both betrayed by their spouses, who reluctantly develop a parallel friendship. Arts Centre. SFS Wednesday 27th, 7.45pm La Veuve de St Pierre (15) A beautifully filmed story set on a French island in the Gulf of St Lawrence of a murderer awaiting execution and the passion of the couple trying to save him. Arts Centre. SFS Swindon Film Society (SFS) All films are shown at the Arts Centre; tickets are not sold in advance; Film Society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre; you can join the society when purchasing tickets

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Family events and childrens activities Wednesday 6th to Saturday 9th, 7.30pm & Saturday at 2.30pm Step into Spring with Swindon Gang Show. From £6. Wyvern Saturday 9th Kate Bellingham's Science Challenge. To celebrate National Science week former Tomorrow's World presenter will take a lighthearted look at inventions and inventing, including the role of engineers. Normal admission charges. STEAM Saturdays 9th & 23rd Meet the Railworkers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers to find out about life inside' the Swindon Works. Normal admission charges. STEAM Sunday 10th, 2pm - 5pm Mother's Day Posies. Drop-in event. All mums will be given a free posy with their entrance ticket whilst children can make a card. Normal admission charges. Lydiard House Sunday 10th, 2pm - 5pm Mother's Day Treat. Drop-in event. Free afternoon tea and cakes and children can make Mother's Day cards. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. Saturday 23rd March to Sunday 7th April Easter Egg Cup Hunt. Win an Easter egg by finding all the different egg cups hidden around ° Lydiard House. ' , £1.25 including admission Saturday 23rd March to Sunday 7th April Dino Egg Trail. Dinosaurs have laid more eggs around the museum, find them and win an Easter egg. 50p. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th Day Out with Thomas. Meet Thomas the Tank Engine, Sir Topham Hatt, the Fat Controller and take a ride on a mini Thomas train. Also storytelling, face painting and competitions. Adults £6.60; children £4.20; family ticket £16, under 5s free. STEAM Friday 29th, 1.30pm & 4.30pm Polka Dot Shorts with Polkaroo and his friends Marigold, Humpty Dumpty and Bibble. £7.50. Wyvern Sunday 31st, from 10.30am Swindon's Biggest Junior Easter Egg Hunt. Children up to 12 years old are invited to join in fun and games, face painting, lots of prizes, Free. Forest Cafe, Lydiard Park Sunday 31 March & Monday 1st April, 11am - 4pm Easter Bunny Specials. Steam hauled trains run every 20 - 30 minutes. Swindon & Cricklade Railway. For details call 771615

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Comedy Friday 8th, 8pm Trev and Simon's Circus of Evil (below). Associated with Saturday mornings 'Going Live' and 'Live and Kicking,' Trev and Simon have long maintained an alternative comedy act which mixes buffoonery, slapstick and crazy characterisation. Not suitable for children. £10. Arts Centre

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Wyvern, Lower Foyer to 16 March Photo Accolade by Jennifer Barton Inspired by old darkroom techniques, Jennifer Barton uses these and the latest computer technology to create new qualities in her black and white images. STEAM Swindon Works: Past and present Historic photographs from the museum collection, comparing them with views taken in more recent years. Free admission to exhibition, normal admission charges to museum. Wyvern, Lower Foyer from 19 March Recent Paintings, Drawings and Etchings by Thomas Michael Harrison Still life, portraits and figures in a stunning collection of subtle images using a limited palette to capture li ght and form in an abstract way. from a widely exhibited local artist. Arts Centre to 23 March Lobsters and Fish by Chris Beadle These large-scale realistic life compositions draw out all the complexities of colour and texture from these unusual subjects Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Saxon Sword A remarkable Saxon sword discovered near Swindon. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Tales from the Gallery This exhibition explores the possible stories, myths and legends which are hidden behind the paintings in the Swindon Collection. Wyvern, Harlequin Bar from 5 March I mages by Gary Spencer Markham A series of brightly coloured paintings in which this local artist echoes the Cubist and Expressionistic approaches to portraying the human face.

The Dance House High energy ceilidh with

The Woodpecker Band Saturday 16 March, 8pm -11.30pm Ellendune Centre. Wroughton £6. £4 concs, £16 family. under 11 s £1 Call 641107 for tickets booth-howe @ ntlworld .com

Thursday 28th, 8pm Mark Steel (right). Columnist, author and regular radio broadcaster, Mark Steel with his one man show and take on life. £8.50. Arts Centre

Workshops Saturdays 9th & 16th, 10am - 4pm Stained Glass. This two day workshop will develop glass cutting, leading and soldering skills while working on a leaded panel. Materials provided. £40. Arts Centre Sundays 3rd & 24th, 10.45am - 12 noon (beginners), 12.15pm - 1.30pm (improvers) Flamenco with Jose Garcia. Traditional Spanish flamboyant dance. £7/workshop. Swindon Dance, Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus. Tel. 463210 Saturday 23rd, 10am - 4pm Easter Flower Painting. An informal day of still life water-colour painting. Bring materials. £10. Arts Centre Sunday 24th, 10.30am - 12.30pm Egyptian Dance with Jill Osbourne. A graceful style of dance using both undulating and rhythmic movements of the hips and torso. This workshop for women only will give you poise and confidence. £10.25. Swindon Dance, Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus. Tel: 463210

Swindon Scratch Choir Like singing? Come and join us on a Monday night, once a fortnight during termtime at Lower Shaw Farm, West Swindon. No auditions or choir experience necessary. Just be willing to sing anything from pop to African chants. It s friendly, it's uplifting and it's fun. For information call Linda Lee on 875184 (eves)

On in Mckr(.^

Theatre and Dance Tours & talks Thursday 7th, 7.30pm Broken Blossoms presented by Negativequity. Dealing with love, domestic violence and racism, Broken Blossoms is visually striking, occasionally touchingly lyrical and often demanding. £8.50. Arts Centre Friday 15th, 2.30pm & 8pm Edge by the Post Graduate Performance Group at London Contemporary Dance School. £8, matinee £5. Town Hall Studios Tuesday 19th to Thursday 21st A New Kinda Company presented by The Judith Hockaday School of Dance and Drama. £7.50. Wyvern Friday 22nd, 7.30pm Henri Oguike Dance Company with a triple bill accompanied by live music: Front Line set to Shostakovich 9th Quartet in E Flat: In Broken Tendrils set to Bela Bartok's virtuosic 2nd Violin Concerto: lie Aye, a light hearted quintet danced to a medley of popular Brazilian songs . £8. Town Hall Studios

Friday 22nd, 7.30pm Stanley Spencer Angels and Dirt by Tim Hyman. Organised by the Friends of Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. £4 (E3 members). Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

The Swindon Barbershop Harmony Club The Swindon Barbershop Harmony Club (SBHC) was formed afewweeks ago by 6 founding members who wish to bring the special sound of barbershop singing to Swindon. The SBHC is situated in central Swindon and will be working to expand their membership and develop a thriving barbershop chorus over the coming months. For more information contact John Hindmarsh at John.Hindmarsh@btinternet.com

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Monday 18th, 7.30pm Railways of Switzerland with Reg Park. Organised by Friends of the Swindon Railway Museum. Nonmembers £2.50. STEAM

Tootleabrook WI meet monthly at Toothill Community Centre. On Wednesday 20 March, 7.30pm, Nigel Sharp will take'ATrip Down Memory Lane (40s - 70s)'. All welcome, for details call Jean Brock on 539456.

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Haydon Wick WI meet on 11 March, 7.30pm at the Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue. The guest speaker is Jane Catchpole who will talk about "Yesterday's Medicine Today'. Visitors are very welcome.

Golden Lion Quilters The quilters meet fortnightly in the Design and Technology room at Kingsdown School, behind the main building, 7pm to9.30pm. On WednesChildren's Morning Wednesday 6th, 10am - 12.30pm Activities on the farm for young children and their parents and carers. Follow the nature trail, feed the hens and collect the eggs, seasonal art and craft. A midmorning snack is provided, you are welcome to bring a picnic lunch. Call 771080 to book. £5/family Easter Holiday Activity Day for 5 to 12 year olds Tuesday 26th,10.30am - 3.30pm Spring into action around the farm. Dip below the pond's surface, try your hand at making a pop-up card or a miniature garden, follow the Easter egg treasure hunt, bake some hot cross buns. Bring a packed lunch and wear old clothes. Call 771080 to book. £12/child

day 6 March Jane Badger will speak on 'Across the Pond with a Quilter; while on 20 March members will work on their on projects. For further information call Glenys Thomas on 532353. New members are welcome.

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Embroiderers Guild Embroiderers Guild, Swindon & North Wilts banch, holds monthly meetings at Churchfields School, Salcombe Grove. On Monday 4 March, 7.30pm

Lorna Bateman will demonstrate `Flowers and More Flowers'. Non members welcome, admission £3. Dayschool 'Painted Book Covers'

with Janet Hand and Jennifer Thompson will be held on Saturday 9 March, 10am - 4pm, admission £18. For details and to book dayschool call Lynette Hemming on 537481.

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Swindon Wide 'Tony Blair pinched my PM' Prime Minister nearly handbags Festival of Literature

Swindon's Festival of Literature nearly lost its most famous ever speaker in nine years when Tony Blair announced a Golden Jubilee gala dinner on 29 April at No. 10 to be attended by Her Majesty the Queen and her previous Prime Ministers. Unfortunately it was the same date that former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher had been booked to speak in Swindon on her newly published memoir Statecraft. Festival director Matt Holland

said he nearly gave up when the news fig came through on a wet Friday afternoon. "Obviously celebrating the Queen's Golden Jubilee came first and Mrs Thatcher's advisors were very apologetic. But after ten months negotiating with authors and speakers, and with all the worries about cuts in grant funding to the festival and also Mrs Thatcher's recent health scares, to see our star speaker being taken away from the town was really hard to take." But a flurry of pleading e-mails and phone negoti ations with Mrs T's team won her over and a new date has been set - Monday 13 May - extending the festival by two days. "Having Mrs Thatcher to close the festival has Matt Holland, pulling together another excellent Festival of Literature

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worked out well," Dr Steve Jones; comicwriter broadsaid Matt. "Al- casters Arthur Smith and Jenny though the financial Eclair; television art critic Matthew situation is chal- Collings; Orange woman's fiction lenging, I've been prize winner Linda Grant, plus able to bring in au- many more. A late inclusion at a literary lunch thors who wanted to come to Swindon on Sunday 5 May in the De Vere but I could not fit in Hotel is the former chief inspector of schools Chris Woodhead who is this year." Although held up as the cultural about to publish Class War: the highpoint in the town's calendar, State of British Education. Matt thinks his coup in attracting and featuring in Swindon's bid to be a city, the future of the nation- the controversial figure will also ally regarded festival is in the bal- set the festival alight. "With Swinance as Swindon Council consid- don Council struggling to come to grips with the way it runs ers whether to scrap its education after failing its tiny grant of around Ofsted inspection last £5,000 and its commityear, Mr Woodhead's ment to literature decomments will have convelopment of a further troversial resonance for £4,000. the town." People say that SwinAlso taking place: the don does not have nationally-famous Swinmuch to offer, but just John Humphreys, don performance poetry consider some of the names who will be in Radio 4 interviewer slam competition, the of the great, the ever-popular children's town from 1 to 13 May: former Northern Ireland good and the sleazy, day, a topical internato be quizzed on ti onal day and a local secretary Mo Mowlem Wednesday authors' day. on the publication date 8 May, 7pm - an You'll see, hear, exof her first book Momentum; controversial col- evening sponsored perience all these in liby The Link braries, museums, theaumnists and novelists tres, schools, pubs, Will Self and Howard Jacobson; best-selling fantasy parks and woodlands in and around writer Terry Pratchett; writer and Swindon. Book a festival programme, pubBBC broadcaster John Humphreys; academically funny novelist li shed on 21 March, by mailing David Lodge; actress and writer swindonlitfest@lsfarm.globalnet.co.uk Sarah Miles; brain theory supremo or call 771080.

Junction 16 Theatre Group presents the comedy Haywire by Eric Chappell, writer of 'Rising Damp' Purton Village Hall Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd March, 7.30. 'Alec Firth is planning an illicit Easter weekend in Spain with Liz. Everything has been taken care of. However, the unexpected arrival of some of his family puts paid to his plans.' This is Junction 16's ninteenth production. The leading role of Alec is played by Dave Hews who is supported by Junction 16 regulars Anne Wang, Diane Warburton, Sally Kirkup and Rachel Badman and newcomer Lee Timms. Tickets £5 will be available on the door or in advance on 349346. (conc. £4). Ticket includes a glass of wine.

Easter Eggstravaganza 23 March, 1 pm - 4pm, Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Organised by Lydiard Millicent Pre-school Bulb stall, bring and buy, toy stall, cake stall, lucky dip, lucky straws to win an Easter Egg, paint an egg, face painting, refreshments

Wedding planning made easy Over 35 exhibitors will be present at the De Vere Hotel wedding fayre on 3 March which is free and runs from 11 am until 4pm. Services on offer include bridal wear, mens hire, tiaras and accessories, discos, cakes, decorations and balloons, stationery, florists, hat hire, mother of the bride outfits, wedding gift selections, car hire, photographers, make-up, videography, live music - in fact most of what you need to make a perfect wedding day in one place.

S.Wirdccn Wide

Art abounds in the town With the frenzied atmosphere about cuts to arts funding over the last few months, as Swindon Council contemplated cultural hart-kini and the derision that comes from trying to turn a town into a cultural wasteland, it's easy to forget that there are loads of creative things going on in schools, where children are both learning about and doing art.

Independent community artists No Added Sugar have been adding a bit of spice to school life by working with children at Greenmeadow in North Swindon and Brook Field in West Swindon. At Greenmeadow, above, each class studied an artist and made their own sketches using that particular style. Then they transferred the ideas to large panels which have been hung around the school halls.Warhol's Marilyn Munroe has become the modern day icon Bart Simpson, geometric patterns represent Kandinsky, they went totally dotty with Suerat and completely crazy about Jackson Pollock. "It was a great project." said artist Gordon Dickinson. pictured above centre. "The kids love the creativity that this work gives them. There's no holding them back." In a similar project at Brook Field School every class took an artist to study during a creative arts week after half term, 18 to 22 February. This The group brings together people ti me Gordon was commissioned to create an eight foot high statue of of any nationality interested in three figures in sheet metal, based on Giocometti designs given to him Russian language and culture and next meets on Friday 8 March. by children, which will stand by the front door. 8pm in the Crown, Ermin Street, Getting ready for art week at Brook Field. In early February every child Stratton, Swindon. contributed to a giant Klimdt collage hung in the school hall. Pictured Exchange ideas, books, newswith art coordinator Clare Hughes. from left, Laura Usherbastar, Ui papers & contacts and meet some Yoshida, Ryan Martin, Hannah Bassell, Robert Bolt native Russian speakers. For details. call 337113 or 491003 russianconnexion@hotmail.com www.communigate.co.uk/wiltsrussianconnexion/index.phtml

The Russian Connexion

Help Swindon get into jubilee spirit Swindon Museum & Art Gallery is dusting down the bunting and stocking up on red, white and blue for a free exhibition opening on Saturday 20 April, to help the town celebrate the golden jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. The exhibition will show how Swindonians have celebrated the many different royal events in the nation's history over the years. The museum has souvenir mugs. newspapers. photographs of Old Town decorated for Queen Victoria's golden and diamond jubilees. even a 78 year old paper serviette from the 1924 visit by George V and Queen Mary.

From The Link archives. November 1999 Tregoze School children welcome the Queen to Lydiard Park But they need more. If you could lend anything relating to royalty in Swindon. or have any special memories, call 466556. All borrowed memorablia will be treated with utmost care.

Discover the Sarthe The Anglo-French Club of Swindon presents an audiovisual show on the Sarthe (Loire region) at Croft Sports Centre, Marlborough Lane, Old Town on Monday 4 March, 7.30pm. Admission is ÂŁ2. Regional specialities and cider will be served afterwards. For details of the Anglo-French Club call Grace Wilkins on 706775

Germanic links The German Connection brings together people of any nationality in the Swindon area interested in German language and culture. Friday. 15th March. 8pm. The Crown, Ermin Street. Stratton. Swindon (Please note change of venue). Schau doch einfach mal vorbei urn nette Leute kennenzulernen. zu quatschen and zu kloenen, deutsche Traditionen and Feste zu feiern and Ideen aus-zutauschen. Wir freuen uns immer ueber neue Gesichter! 01793 539808 deutscher_freundeskreis@hotmail.com Besuche auch unsere Web-Seite fuer naehere Informationen: deutscherfreundeskreis. homestead .comi Deutsche Spiel /Krabbelgruppe (German Playgroup) Trifft sich einmal die Woche in and um Swindon and freut sich ueber neue. Bei Interesse bitte anrufen: 496776

30 The Link Maaazine • March 2002

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Things are looking good for the volunteers involved with the Swindon and Cricklade Railway Society who, many years ago, set their hearts on making their steam railway one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The Easter Bunny specials will be running again at the Swindon and Cricklade Railway Society on Sunday 31 March and on Monday 1 April over the mile of track that has been reinstated over the last ten years. But plans are now well in hand to extend the line right into the Swindon urban area. For Easter, volunteers are putting the finishing touches to two converted carriages from Norway which will become new refreshment rooms for visitors and workers at the society's Blunsdon station base. Although donated by the Boness Railway in Scotland, the cost of transporting them to Swindon was £3,500. "The donation of the carriages came just at the right time; it's a very exciting venture," said Jeff Austin, chairman of the society and its chief engineer. "The Norwegian carriages are too wide for use on the railway but are excellent as a refreshment room. We've laid a large patio outside next to the railway line which will be a great place to view the trains." He added that the carriages which will accommodate up to 40 diners can also be hired for private

Where are you if you are not on the new north Swindon map? To be published in April

JeffAustin, "r ht, with volunteer patio layers, from le ' Michael Agtin, Dave Peacey, Dave Pinch

way society is to have steam powered trains running from the Cotswold Water Park in the north past Cricklade, to Sparcells in West Swindon. Jeff said the railway society is Surpluses from the restaurant will provide a useful contribution very appreciative of the considerto the funds required to extend the able assistance given by the North operational track into north and Swindon Development Company. west Swindon. The society hopes They have laid track bed at to start laying track towards Mouldon Hill and are in the procMouldon Hill, across Thames- ess of constructing a cattle underdown Drive from Taw Hill, later in pass just to the north, providing a the year, after environmental and new railway bridge in the process. wildlife protection planning issues They have also made cash donations. have been sorted out. " We would welcome enquires A further planning application will be required to take track from any company wishing to help around into the Mouldon Hill sponsor one of North Wiltshire's country park close to the old Wilts major tourist attractions," said Jeff. "Similarly, we always welcome and Berks canal. The original line carried the Mid- new members willing to help with land and South Western Junction a wide variety of projects on the Railway from Southampton to the railway. All our work is done by Midlands, calling at Swindon Old volunteers." Anyone interested can call Jeff Town station from about 1880 to 1964. The ultimate aim of the rail- on 726807. functions, such as wedding receptions or by businesses. Combined with trips up the railway line, break out sessions will take on a whole new meaning.

How to get to Blunsdon steam railway station The newly erected sign close to Thamesdown Drive pictured below is totally misleading as there are no follow-on signs directing you to the railway from West Swindon, whilst Mouldon Hill is not officially open and there is nowhere to park. The railway society is desperate for donations to pay Swindon Council for signage on approach roads. Call Jeff if you can help. TADPOLE LANE

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

Family research at a local level The launch of a web site featuring the 1901 census in early Janua ry was so successful that it promptly crashed from the demand. But you don't have to go was a tremendous help to on to the web if you live in " people searching out family Wiltshire because all the 1901 roots. "It is proving a popucensus information is availlar resource to regular and l able on microfiche at Swinnew researchers and saves don reference library in the trips to other record offices." town centre. She added that with so The library also has the many resources available, General Register Office init's easy to be put off. "We dex of births, marriages and would advise anybody startdeaths for the whole of Enging out in research to gather land and Wales for the peas much information as posriod 1837 to 1897. Along with sible from other family mema substantial collection of bers before beginning to reference books about famsearch official records. The ily and place names, books next best step is to talk to the of photographs from the past Wiltshire Family History and maps, the information Society who can offer invaluis a goldmine for the family able help and advice." history research beginner, as Use of the microfiche well as the experienced inrecords is free but advance vestigator. booking of the reading maLibrarian Frances Ham- Frances Hainbidge, with afew of the books available chine is advisable. Call the bidge said the introduction at the reference library in Regents Circus reference library on 463240. of the microfiche equipment • Richard Moore of the Swindon branch of the Wiltshire Family History Society described the activities of the group in the Janu-

From the peoplelink pages

www.swindnlink.com From time to time we print some of the messages received at our web site. Do contact the people below if you know them or can help out with information. And visit peoplelink to see if you know anybody there. Looking for descendents Mike Morris would like to hear from any descendants of David and Rachel Jones. who came to Swindon from the Pontypool area around 1 863-6. After a short while in Bath Street they lived in Reading Street. David died in 1888 and Rachel in 1910. They had 4 or 5 children born in Wales and 4 more, including my grandmother. Mary Kathleen, born in Swindon. Mary's brothers and sisters were: David B., Annie Leah, Thomas, John F.. Daniel. Catherine, Hannah and ?William. Mary married Frank Morris who died in 1927. Later, she lived in Bath Road and Broome Manor Lane until her death in 1950. mike@magharl-oxford.co.uk To former members of Lollipops toddler group From Greta Milam in New York I was one of the founder members with "Welsh" Debbie Griffiths in 1988/ 89 ish. Six families started the group in the small Shaw chapel on Old Shaw Lane before moving to the new church at Shaw village centre. Love to hear from anybody who knew us. milli8@juno.com Sandford Street School for boys I' m Barry Cubitt and I attended Sanford Street School between 1960 1 965. In 1969 I emigrated to Australia. I would like to make contact with any ex-students of Sanford School and invite you to join my e-group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/oldsanfordians barrycubitt@yahoo,com.au or abercrombie@jenolancaves.org.au

Grange Drive Junior School, Stratton 1975 My name is Steve Sahota and I am looking for anybody who remembers me from 1975. My best pal was Anthony Pound (Tony). I remember Collin Peak, Gary Merchent, John Taylor, Wendy Towsend, Sahra King... and many more. I lived in Harrow Close, Stratton St.Margaret. steve.sahota@t-oniine.de

Web networkers Swindon based web designer Chris Bulzackl organises pub get-togethers for others doing Internet stuff. To get Into the network, mail: chris@rubberdragon.com www.rubberdragon.com

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32 The Link Magazine • March 2002

International experience for Shaw lads

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Whilst in Canada every member of the England team stayed with local families. When not training or playing we visited Niagara Falls. At night they turn on lights and shine them down on the falls with different colours. I went under ground and looked through caves at the water, at one point the falls were frozen over. In the main tournament in Windsor, Ontario we drew our first game 2-2 in a hard fought battle in which we should have come out on top. Our second game we lost 3-2 and also our third 5-2, which put us out of the tournament. The level of play was extremely high and gave us excellent experience of quality hockey.

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Shane Moore and Mark Richardson were pictured in the December Link preparing for a trip to Canada with the England under 16 ice hockey team after Christmas. Both play for the Swindon Leopards (under 16s) and the Swindon Cougars (under 19s). Shane describes the experience of playing in a country where ice hockey is the premier sport.

.r1 1 S 1J1J JJ`J DD

After the tournament was over we played exhibition games in the local area, winning all of them. It was Mark's last year to play for the England under 16s, but I am looking forward to returning

to Windsor with the team next year. We both travel to Tilburg in Holland to play with the England team again in March. Before going away we trained hard to get to our peak performance and are regulars at Prime Bodies Gym. Playing ice hockey at international level is expensive. If anyone can help us with sponsorship, please contact Duncan Moore on 874722.

Shoot the hoop this Easter Bookings are being taken fora four day basketball camp for boys and girls aged 11 to 15 years at Link Centre from 9 to 12 April. Coached by England Womens national team coach Brani Bazany, Ken Walton, head coach of Swindon Sonics, Malin Andrew, Swindon Sonics Ladies Captain and Swedish International and others, the camp will provide a solid basis for improving individual performance and develop team skills while enjoying the game. The cost is £50 which includes a camp tee shirt. To book pick up an application form at the Link Centre.

EERY SUNDAY. ^1J ^ 1Js\I J ^)J J ^E, J X1221

Children 5pm - 6pm

(li mited spaces)'

Adults 6pm - 7pm Classes also available in Stratton

FAQs to the ALC What are the frequently asked questions or misconceptions about fitness? Staff at the Link Active Lifestyle Centre are happy to provide answers. Here are two which come up regularly. Will lifting weights give me big muscles?

Women especially are concerned not to become bulky through weight training. The truth is that to gain muscle size a person would need to train and eat specifically to do so. Even then some men and virtually all women do not have high enough testosterone levels to get really big muscles. The fact is that resistance training will boost your metabolism (the rate at which your body burns calories), give you more strength and endurance to perform fat burning cardiovascular exercises and tone you up into the bargain. I only want to train my stomach/legs/butt/hips!

People usually say this because there is an area of their body where they are storing excess body fat, but unfortunately you cannot spot reduce. For example, doing hundreds and hundreds of crunches will not reduce the size of your waist if you have an excess of body fat there. What you need to do is reduce the body fat through a combination of sensible eating and aerobic exercise, in addition to doing some conditioning work to the area concerned. Furthermore, overtraining one muscle and neglecting others can upset muscle balance and lead to injuries to muscles and joints. Got a question? Send it to Link ALC, Link Centre, West Swindon. Mail: linkalct@swindon.gov.uk

The Link Magazine • March 2002

Andrew and Tifany aim for world first They were not able to take part in the Winter Olympics because of qualification regulations, but Swindon's ice dance skaters Andrew Seabrook and Tifany Sfikas have high hopes for the World Championships in March, in Japan. In the European Championships at the end of last year, their first major cornpetition outside the UK, they surprised the skating world by coming from nowhere to take tenth position out of 18 skaters. " Many people were astounded at their performance; all of a suddentherewas + a new pair of skaters who had not been seen on the interna- _ tional circuit," said Tifany andAndrew help the Mayor David Cox Link Centre ice skatandMayoress jenni Dean find theirway around ing development ofthe Link rink ficer Alan Seabrook.

At the end of the short pro- Former British junior champion gramme Andrew and Tifany were Andrew teamed up with Tifany in in seventh position. "It was our 2000 and they are coached by first competition against world Lesley Norfolk-Pearce. class skaters and there was a lot of Although not in the Olympics, pressure," explained Tifany. "But Andrew and Tifany featured in it wasexcellentpreparationforthe the BBC promotional video doing world championships." some spectacular ice dance moves.

LOSE WEIGHT FEEL GREAT We have the fastest and most effective weight loss programme available. You can still eat your favourite foods, you'll have incredible energy, and the inches will disappear week after week. Naturally derived products 30 day money back guarantee Full customer follow up Call Brian or Jan on 01793 872659 (In.I, prudent H, rbalif,- di,trilutorl

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Rse aryConley Diet aed Fitness Clubs

Follow Rosemary's new low-fat eating plan which now includes treats & watch the pounds and inches disappear! * Monday: Noremarsh Junior School, Wootton Bassett, 5.30pm & 7pm * Thursday: Saltway School, Middleleaze, 6pm * Thursday: Warneford School, Highworth, 8pm Call Dawn on (01793) 782639 Membership £6.99 Class £4.35 Exercise only £3.35 (no membership) 10

Achieve Success Fitness Consultancy Sports .Massage Therapy Clinic PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINING AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PROGRAMMES

PILATES STRETCH CLASSES Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre Monday: 6pm - 7pm (level I) Wednesday: 7pm - 8pm (level 2); 8pm - 9pm (level I) POWER YOGA CLASSES Thursday: 7pm - 8pm, Dorcan Recreation Centre

SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY

Win your way to a fitter, leaner body Pilates is the big fitness and body conditioning therapy for the 21st Century, although it was conceived by Joseph Pilates over 70 years ago. Nowwellknownfitness instructorCarolan Brown has produced a video FLOWpilates: Breathe, to Achieve - which will help you easily understandthe techniques and philosophy of pilates. It won't be in the shops until later in the year, but you can win one of three copies with The Link. "FLOWpilates lengthens, strengthens and tones the whole body,"

g , • • r, ♦

and enhances everyday body movements. Body conditioning centres on wide and full deep breathing tech-

niques which enable mind and body to work g: to full effect in total synergy. The FLOWpilates workout consists of seven easy to follow sections that flow together commencing with warm up, back mobility,

says Carolan, one of the UK's leading fitness consultants and personal trainers. "Itworksthe

back strengthening, seated abdominal strength, pelvic stability, deep abdominal tone and stretch,

body from the inside out - honing

and cool down, leaving you feeling

the deeper muscles of the torso and improving their function.

balanced, taller, refreshed and totally relaxed. It's the ultimate body

"Eighty per cent of the populati on does not exercise regularly. But most people would like their bodies to be well toned and their mind and body balanced.

conditioning video for home use. FLOWpilates is priced £12.99 plus £1.50 p&p and is obtainable from halo vine video, PO Box 104, Leicester, LE10 2WW, or call 020

FLOWpilates is the easiest and

8 758 0650. www.flowpilates.com

gentlest way to achieve this and more importantly, sustain it."

Harnessing traditional pilates techniques and philosophy. Carolan has created an easy-tofollow flow structure that enables faster learning and quicker results. FLOWpilates aids body definition

^° OMPETITION

To win a copy of FLOWpilates: Breathe, to Achieve, tell us who conceived the pilates method. Send your answers to The Link, Papermakers House, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 13 March.

Wootton Bassett Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Mrs Lesley Catling MCSP

Chartered Physiotherapist Tel: 01 793 848424 Mobile: 07778 553703 60 High Street

CHIROPODIST Advanced Reflexologist & Kinesiologist CLINIC AT 113 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

For an appointment with Mrs Lesley Taylor r MBChA, MSSCh, MIIR, ASE

Call Freephone 0808 108 8545 (01793) 849914 anytime

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YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR For further details contact: SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. SIMON BODLEY BSc. D.C.

Tel: (01793) 887801 Fax: (01793) 882298 Opening times Mon, Tues, Fri: 7.30am - 8.30pm Wed: 8.30am - 8pm Thurs: 8.30am - 7.30pm Sat: 8.30am - I pm Members of BCA • Registered with GCC Members of the College of Chiropractors

34 The Link Magazine • March 2002

A home from home, with a lot more Making the transition from home to adult life is not easy at the best of times and it can be very difficult for some young people. But the Foyer project in Swindon provides a positive opportunity for singles aged 16 to 25 to make their way forward. Situated in a converted building on Bath Road, opposite the museum in Old Town, with a new extension to the rear, the Foyer offers ensuite bedsits for up to sixty young people who are committed to, or already in, training, education or employment.

Rooms are designed around communal kitchens which residents have to keep clean and tidy and there is a common room, train-

Kelly Hyde in her room with Fiona Dunford, standing

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build up confidence and I'm writing a new CV to apply for jobs. Another good thing is that there are social activities you can join in with if you want. You wouldn't get that if you were living in a block of flats somewhere."

Working in the IT resources room, from left Michael, Mohammed Hussein, Sam, Shaun

Training access worker Fiona Dunford, who is funded by the Learning Skills Council, said her job was to guide residents in their training needs and help them into work. "In the Foyer we run basic skills courses in small groups and we have a suite of computers to learn IT skills and prepare CVs. If a resident plans to take a college course, or start a job, I'll help them work out what they need beforehand and get them going, for example with transport. We also organise life skills groups in-house such as a weekly cooking group. "Our aim is to encourage responsibility and self-confidence, as well as a sense of achievement so that residents are prepared for independent living beyond the Foyer." Young people can live at the Foyer for up to two years. As people are always moving on, there are usually spaces for 16 to 25 year olds with housing needs. To find out more call 531679, or drop into 17 - 21 Bath Road, Old Town.

Workers team up in the west ;rl►^► f

Nowill

10 Year Guarantee

Visitors are always welcome Open 6 days a week Mon to Fri 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday 8.00am - 12.30pm

ing room with computer suite, laundry and garden. Eight bedsits are adapted for people with physical disabilities who can be up to 30 years old. Temporary Foyer manager Moura Feeny said the project helps young people to take charge of their lives, make informed choices and move towards independence. "Potential residents can approach us directly or be referred by housing departments in Swindon and nearby local authorities which support the project. They are interviewed about their housing needs and we explain the conditions of living at the Foyer. They also have to provide references. At a second interview we focus on education, training and employment opportunities and work out a personal development plan together." Residents at the Foyer like the independence of having their own rooms whilst having somebody to turn to if needs be. Wayne Fields, 20, said he had been living on the streets and in hostels when he was seventeen. "I got mixed up with the wrong people a few years ago, but living in the Foyer for the last six months has been good. Having staff who understand and you can talk to privately is helpful; I've been able to get my life together." Lee Bates, 17, said the interview had been quite tough. "They wanted to know a lot before I got a place. Fiona the training worker is helping me get on a Learning Gateway programme." Jenny, 19, said she had left home with nowhere to go. She heard about the Foyer and was interviewed for a place in the Autumn. "You can have independence and live your own life, but there is always somebody around if you need help. I've got GCSEs and GNVQs and worked for the Inland Revenue for a time. Now I'm doing some volunteer work to

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17 •

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•

UNIT 7, BARNFIELD ROAD, GREAT WESTERN WAY, SWINDON SN2 2DJ

western Way

ROdb°^r

WE ARE HERE

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Two new youth workers have joined Swindon Council's community education team based at the Link Centre. Fran Sampson has been a youth ing for volunteers to assist him run worker around the town since 1994, sessions. Sanjay can be contacted most recently at Highworth. She on 465466. has responsibility for street work, Hopes for skate park in March building relationships with young The ramps built in December have people where they meet and pro- been RoSPA inspected as safe, but viding support and information. need a few adjustments. A storage Sanjay Mistry box has been delivarrives from a soered to the Link Cencial inclusion tre coach park. project run by Originally supRaleigh Internaposed to open in tional in LiverJanuary, Linkyouth pool. He has the workers hope to task of opening have them in use by youth clubs in the the end of March. area and is lookLeft, Fran and Sanjay

The Link Magazine • March 2002

Stuart bowls them over A young Swindon bowler is making a name for himself on the international 10 pin bowling circuit Fifteen-year-old Stuart Jones days 10am to 12noon. Youngsters from Woodhall Park, who bowls can start aged eightyears and bowl for England under 16s is the third until they are 18. teenager in ten years from the The cost is just £4 a morning Swindon Young Bowlers Club to which includes coaching from represent his country. The year 11 qualified instructors and three pupil at Hreod Parkway School is games. As members develop their currently ranked in the top six game they are picked for tournabowlers in the country for his age mentteamswhichplayalloverthe group. country. New boys and girls are Stuart began bowling in 1997 always welcomed. Turn up and with the club which meets at the take part or call club secretary Colin Shaw Ridge Megabowl on Satur- Newman on 642464. Katie Brown, Kyle Brooks, Stuart Jones, John Newman, Nicola Inglis. Front, Lh'u Broien, Joe Loz'el^>;

Juniors get their own council

Add MV to your CV

Fifteen North Swindon children have been appointed to a newly formed 'Junior Parish Council' with the intention that they become involved in local government at parish level. The year 6 children, three from each of the primary schools in the Hay don Wick parish area, will gain an understanding of how the council operates, how and why money is raised and spent and how issues affecting the parish are dealt with. Some parish councillors will attend meetings to explain how the system works and also to listen to views expressed by the youngsters so that their points can be discussed at the full parish council. Councillor Phil Eagle, a member of the working party organising the initiative, is confident there will be serious and useful contributions from the children on suitably selected topics. "Hopefully, it will inculcate some idea of how a community works and how we are all collectively responsible for the society we share," he said. The junior councillors and their parents will be invited to an inaugural meeting on Thursday 7 March. Future meeting will be held at the end of the school day in the council offices in Thames Avenue.

West Swindon Millennium Volunteers is looking for people aged 16 to 25 to do good things in their community, build up team work skills and gain valuable experience.

To find out more visit project coordinator Tracy McKeddie any Wednesday, 7.30pm to 9pm, at Freshbrook Community Centre. If you can't make it, call her on 07876 451140 or mail: volunteers@freshbrook.org.uk Above, Tracy, overlooked by work by volunteers at the community centre

How many Mums consider how much of their valuable `shopping time' in the town centre is actually spent shopping?

Just think of the time spent finding somewhere to park, as near to the shops as possible of course, and then returning laden with shopping to find you have a parking ticket. t -

Why do it? At the West Swindon Shopping Centre shopping can be fun for all the family because you can visit all your favourite shops in an all-weather, relaxing atmosphere. Take advantage of our children's creche, places to eat, low priced petrol and free and secure parking - all on one level. • Oh please Mum...

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36 The Link Magazine • March 2002

Two Phils celebrate long service in the community

J.F.K

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

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

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories. -

Tel: 01793 848177 or 770596 ,22 Ravens Walk, Wootton Bassett

Two long time Link advertisers have achieved landmarks in their businesses and would like to thank readers for all their support. W, fir.. by TV makeover programmes and Decorator Philip Stone from Shaw are more ambitious and experiis celebrating 15 years of business mental. Terracotta tones and in West Swindon. Since his first ^^ strong blues are very popular advertisement in the October Link PHILiP STO^E 1 nowadays. 0RII'oR /' W 1986, it's been success all the way &M "arts' Phil added that customers also He has always concentrated on rE1:0179 87515 look for easy maintenance nowaattracting customers from the lodays. "It's a pity, because I like ^fr 7t '7 cal area, which now accounts for putting up wallpaper and fancy ninety five percent of his trade. borders; it makes a room look com"I get a lot of repeat business I plete." =-. o and have visited many customers In due course look out for Stone .. several times over the years. I first & Son as 12 year old Matthew saw some of their children as todFashions have changed since he wants to join his dad in the busidlers and now they are leaving school; perhaps I will pick up their started out. "Tinted colours like ness. In the meantime, Phil can be business in a few years," said rose and apple white were big then, contacted on 07774 208527 or but people have been influenced 870515 in the evenings. Philip. V

Let the doctor come to you Phil Mitchell The Bike Doctor runs another business which has achieved success largely due to adverts in The Link and personal recommendations. "It was a bit nerve racking after I went independent ten years ago, but I've not looked back after those first advertisements," said Phil. Getting a bike to a shop for attention is a tiresome and usually messy business which is where The Bike Doctor comes in. Phil offers free collection and delivery of bikes in need of repair and servicing at times that suit the customer, from home or the work place. He also sells bikes, parts and accessories, often at a discount to shop prices. With 20 years in the bike trade, Phil knows what he is talking about. Over that time many more people have taken to two wheels, to keep fit and to bypass the ever increasing jams in the town. Keeping those wheels in good condition is sensible and The Bike Doctor is here to help out. Call him on 874873 or on 07850 650956.

STRATTON COMMUNITY LEISURE CENTRE MARCH DANCE with JUBILEE Saturday 9th March

SPRING DANCE with FULL CIRCLE Saturday 20th April 7.30pm - midnight Food available, bar discounted to members' prices £5 (members), £5.40 (non-members)

PREMIER HEALT & FITNESS SUIT All the very latest in Life Fitness equipmen Pay per visit or take out a pass for 6 or 12 months. 6 month Off Peak from £79 12 month Off Peak from £1 28 12 month Peak/Off Peak from £1 75 Prior to using the fitness suite you must have completed an induction. Inductions: Peak £8.50; Off Peak £7.70; Lean Time £7.00

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^^r d little' bit oeâ‚Źre. Pizza Hut managers need more than the motivational, people management and customer service skills that most retailers expect from their leaders. Our managers need to be the kind of personalities who can create an environment in which customers can be themselves and enjoy great food in relaxed and stress-free surroundings.

Now recruiting for our brand new restaurant in Abbey Meads and in West Swindon

Creating that kind of atmosphere is not easy, but our training, combined with your ambition, determination and sheer desire to be the best will help even the most inexperienced of managers to succeed.

Competitive rates of pay + flexible hours

You can join Pizza Hut as a manager whether you've got retail management experience or not. Either way, you can expect to benefit from training that's proven it can take people to the top, and from exceptional career opportunities with a company that's part of the Whitbread Group and totally committed to developing talent.

Interested? Call Pete Wainwright: 07789 888 938 or our West Swindon restaurant: 876 212

Deputy Managers Few people want to remain deputies for the rest of their career. Here at Pizza Hut, we realise that, which is why we groom all our number twos to take on the number one role in the future. We'll teach you everything you need to move into senior management. But you'll need to work hard, supporting the General Manager in all areas of the store, organising and planning day to day operations and ensuring our customers and your team enjoy life at Pizza Hut. If you have team leadership and motivational skills, ideally gained in a fast-moving retail environment, call now on one of the numbers shown. Support Managers In this supervisory role you'll be responsible for providing cover across the business. You'll need to drive and motivate others in your team to provide service that exceeds customers' expectations, and strive to ensure all sales opportunities are maximized. Prove yourself and opportunities to develop a career in management are here for you. Team Members Whether you choose to work front or back of house (or both!), your responsibility is providing our customers with the fantastic eating experience that gets them coming back for more. With flexible hours, great rewards and a friendly atmosphere that suits all kinds of people, can you afford to miss this opportunity? Could you bring our great restaurant atmosphere to our customers' doorstep? We also require owner-drivers and delivery riders for our West Swindon restaurant.

1i 'oined as a waitress m JJ anuar y 1999. Less th an

r-Pry---0r" t1--tf-ra,

'd worked my way up to Deputy Manager. When PizzaHut say they within, they mean it. JILL HOLDER, Deputy General Manager, Reading

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38 The Link Magazine • March 2002

Scrapstore means business when it comes to reducing waste. Every day offices and factories generate tons of waste and offcuts that is sent to landfill for disposal but a lot of it can be reused. The Swindon Scrapstore takes material that would otherwise be thrown away and offers it to community groups which can use them for creative play and education. And they will even collect suitable waste from companies free of charge, sort and bag it where appropriate, before making it available to schools and playgroups. Almost anything clean and non-toxic such as paper, fabric, wood and even nails and screws can be put to good use. Some 100 companies across the town supply the Swindon Scrapstore, but there are many more which could make use of their service. If your business can supply reusable waste or if you represent a communi ty group that would like to use these materials, call Swindon Scrapstore on 513982. The Scrapstore is also keen to attract volunteers to prepare stock for selection. They can either help out in their premises at the Pinehurst People's Centre, or have materials delivered to their homes to sort. There are always jigsaws, toys and small items that need sorting and bagging. If you can offer the time, call the Scrapstore.

Constantly shifting ottd sorting or the Swindon Scrapstore, from left Derek Jones, transport manager; Olivia McCann, manager; John Gardner, volunteer; Sue Dunmore, volunteer coordinator, and Santa Claus

Xmas card recycling tops a million

Open your garden for Breakthrough

The Great Western Community Forest team have totted up the Christmas cards recycled in this year's campaign and reckon 1,073,000 were collected at special containers at Sainsbury's and at 87 schools which took part. The money from recycling the cards will be invested in new woodland plan ti ng in and around Swindon. South Swindon MP Julia Drown recycling with Lethbridge School children

Mr ROTAVATOR

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• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc. • Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting, gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas • Contact: 01793 692687 Mobile: 07711 253508 (^

All types of fencing Repairs/refurbishment MADE TO MEASURE GATES Pressure injected timber treatment Help & advice on all fencing

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.0 ^aT&Ni m F(A C^c^^^r^c^ Spring into growth again with us Now is the time to think about your Spring garden

and here at Toomers Garden Centre we have all the products and ideas to help you. All sorts of ideas for

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Abbey

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40 The Link Magazine • March 2002

3Rs on the doorstep

•O

SOLUTION Maintenance free UPVC fascia boards cladding & guttering Expertly fitted at DIY prices

FREE SIJR` EY NO I)EPOSI'I' Work it out for yourself 20 fascia board fitted £ 60 £135 20' fascia & gutter fitted 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £205 20' fascia & soffit £130 (prices correct at time of publication) J

For a free quote

e-mail: rapers@tinyworld.co.uk

Could you be the volunteer?

New College has launched a twice a week free session for people living in North Swindon with the aim of boosting basic English and Swindon Independent Visitors is always seeking people of any genMaths skills. der, age and background, interThere's always a warm welcome ested in children's welfare and at the new learning centre at willing to commit to visit a young Pinehurst People's Centre run by person on a regular basis. Tony Hillier and the number of At the moment the organisation people coming keeps on growing. is looking for men and women of "People just appear at the door all ages, backgrounds and ethnic asking if we can help them to read groups throughout the Swindon the newspaper or work out their area in order to match specific chilwages. We invite them in for a cup dren who have been referred to of tea and a chat, and we can look the scheme, sharing their interests at how we can help improve readand hobbies. ing and number work. Applications from men, espe"Some people feel more conficially black Jamaican, West AfriTony Hillier, ready to help dent coming with a friend or relacan or dual heritage, are particutive, and that's fine by me. GraduDrop-in at The Clivey larly sought. ally they build up confidence and The children, aged up to 18 years, join a few others to learn together. A new project for young people Learning is so much more interest- in North Swindon is launched on currently have little or no contact ing when you can draw on the 5 March when the Mayor of Swin- with their parents or natural famrichness of other people's lives." don David Cox officially cuts the ily, and will have experienced many changes within their lives. Tony is at the Pinehurst Learn- ribbon at 'The Clivey.' A training course for volunteer Located in Clive Parade, at the ing Centre on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Drop in and Moonrakers end of Cricklade support workers is being planned talk to him. If you know anyone Road, opposite Headlands School, for March. To help them carry out who finds Maths or English diffi- the project will offer free advice, their role as a befriender, ongoing cult, suggest they talk to Tony on support and information to 13 to training and support is given, and agreed out of pocket expenses are 512446 or 611470 or come along 16 year olds. A cafe is open Monday to Fri- reimbursed. with them. If you feel that you could offer You can easily get to Pinehurst day, 5pm to 7pm, serving drinks assistance, or want to know more, People's Centre from Whitworth and packaged snacks, and offers a Road or Beech Avenue, and there's safe place to watch TV, play games call Spurgeon's Child Care project office on 615049. and meet others. free parking if you need it.

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The Link Magazine • March 2002

Big dog for big show Well known Haydon Wick resident Blue, the rescued Bouvier des Flandres, has qualified to appear in the traditional show ring at Crufts from 7 to 10 March at Earls Court. • Having already appeared there last November as part of the Kennel Club Good Citizen Gold Teams, Blue has been picked again as one of nine dogs for further demonstrations. But as Crufts is the big show, he still had to go through an even more demanding selection process. Proud owner Janet Garrett said she was delighted that Blue had qualified to appear on three of the four days at Crufts, and especially pleased that he again will be showing off his abilities for the Kennel Club amongst clever and quick collies or collie Blue, ready to perform types.

HYDROTHERAPY S WIM

CENTRE

Calling for caterers Wootton Bassett Lions Club is looking for catering help for their May Fayre at Lydiard Park on Monday 6 May. Anyone interested in offering catering services should send their menu and prices to Mr A Punnett, 22 Gainsborough Avenue, Wootton Bassett, Wilts SN4 8JN or mail: wblions@clubinternational.fsnet.co.uk Cause a stir for charity The WRVS (Women's Royal Voluntary Service) wants people to organise tea parties during Mad Hatters Week, 1 to 7 March. To take part in the big brew, call 01235 442925 for an information pack.

Dog hotel wanted Juan and Cynthia Cobian from Abbey Meads are looking for a genuine dog lover who could take Buck, their friendly German Sheppard, into their home while they are away from late April to the end of June. They will provide food for Buck and also pay £ 30 a week board and lodging. To discuss the possibilities and to get to know Buck, call 638350 (home) or 0788 7643311 (mobile).

PETS AT HOME

POOL FOR DOGS

Swimming is suitable for all types of dogs and is especially helpful for the following conditions:

ATTENTION ALL PET OWNERS 111tPHT, are now in your area

Arthritis Spinal Injuries Hip/Elbow Dysplasia and Recovery from Surgery, Maintaining Fitness & Weight Loss

Let II PHY; do it for you - we will save you money!

FOR A FREE PRICE LIST CONTACT PAUL OR PAM ON 01793 728510

Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

Why struggle home from the shop with heavy cans & bags?

THE DROVE VETERINARY

Abbeymeads Veterinary Surgery For all your pets needs when healthy or ill I

Elstree Way AbbeVmeads Swindon

Tel: (01793) 728728

I I

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HOSPITAL

Unit 5

Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only.

We offer FREE DELIVERY of pet foods to your door every week/month

Telephone Gill on 01793 706224 for details

Abbeymeads Village Centre

v, ^ Crnr( L

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

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.3opm

Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm

Saturday l2noon - 3pm Consulting hours: By appointment Mon - Fri: 9am- 10.30am;

Saturday

3.30pm - 5pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Saturday

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

12noon - 3pm

9.00am - 4.00pm

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hosp it al - Telephone (01793) 522483

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

Tham e swood Small Animal Hospital Helping you care more for your pet

Swindon's most modern small animal hospital, situated in North West Swindon, offering high quality surgical and medical care at competitive prices within a caring,riendly and professional environment.

MOBILE DOG WASH 8 The mobile Salon that comes to you. "Top to toe" grooming service for your dog. Qualified, kind & friendly staff. Most breeds catered for. Reasonable prices. To make an appointment call 01793 731829 Mobil e 0798 4647744

CONSULTATIONS BY APPOINTMENT Monday to F riday gam - 10am, 2pm - 3pm, 5pm - 6.30pnz Saturday 9am - 11 mn

42 The Link Magazine • March 2002 ,% Reiki could be the healing answer for you Call Danny Small, Reiki Master Tel: (01793) 554763 Mobile: 07092 207103 www.reiki-practitioner.co.uk

JUST THE JOB

PC SERVICES

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

For business and home Repairs, spares & upgrades

Ironing a chore? Not any more!

DECOTEX

Ironing done in a smoke free environment at sensible rates Call Jackie on 721878 or Donna on 721719

Specialist Artexing

Phil on t: 01793 531162 m: 07747 74700O Contact

Contact Mrs G Bush CT ABRSM Swindon 873012

Would you like to improve your GCSE or A-Level grades in French? Native French teacher: £12/hour

Tel: (01793) 791388

Teacher of piano & theory in West Swindon All ages, beginners & elementary players welcome

Set-up & training

Painter & Decorator

NEW CREATIVE PASTIME?

CLASSICAL/SUZUKI,, VIOLIN LESSONS Ring Rhonda on 07789 175076 www.mab.tgis.co.uk

Mobile: 07880570294 Play the Piano

PROOFREADING

Auto Climate Control MOBILE AUTO AIR CONDITIONING

Service and repair at home or work on cars, coaches, trucks & tractors Call 01793 82 22 20 or 0794 603 6307 for free advice and estimates CITB Registered • INSTVAC Member

Need help to make sure those i mportant documents are accurate? Yes - then call me to proofread them. Reasonable rates. Linda Street: 01793 346356

Call OVEN U 5 today for a free quote (01793) 831 944 www.ovenu.co.uk

J \H11 /MID

rI!T w!'

For Sale

Bike trailer, fits 2 children, waterproof, easy to pull, £100 ono. Tel: 877918 Mamas & Papas Pliko pushchair, navy and white, hardly used, includes cosytoes, raincover. £125 ono. Tel: 882783 Rapido buggy, blue/yellow, cosytoes, shopping tray, raincover plus spares, excellent condition. £70. Tel: 874768 3 in 1 highchair, pine wood frame, converts easily into a low chair and table, £30. Tel: 876384 Britax Ranger car seat, two part, converts into a booster seat, from 9 months to 11 years, £10. Tel: 876384 Maclaren 2 in 1 pram/pushchair complete with apron raincover, cosy toes and sun canopy, £50. Tel: 876384 Cotbed ELC. Burford, antique pine, mattress and bedding incl. low end bed/ barred cot, £140. Tel: 639800 Boys clothes, age 11 - 13, many as new, brand names, from £1 each. Tel: 349068 Black serapets, Mad Kow, worn once, age 10+ approx, £10. Ski jacket, 164 cm, £10. Tel: 870792 Wedding dress, ivory with some shell pinkfloral embroidery detail, long sleeves, train, size 12- 14. £200. Tel: 887112 Wicker picnic case, new, £15. Tel: 536532 Kitchen table, round, £10. Sleepercouch, £10. Small bicycle, £10. Tel: 870774 Ikea wooden futon and mattress. in cream, hardly used, £50 ono. Tel: 724016

Kitchen table, 3' x 2' £15. Singer hand sewing machine, £10. Double electric blanket, dual controls, £25. Tel: 887795 Pine dining table, 120cm x 74cm, £15. Tel: 704169 Occasional table with four side tables. £15. Double radiator. 1100mm x 750mm. £15. Tel: 724493 Single bed & mattress, excellent condition, £40. Portable colour TV, excellent condition, £30. Tel: 881746 Single bed, brand new, £99. Travel cot, £20. Pine corner TV unit, £50. Tel:343422 2 pale yellow Laura Ashley lampshades. £3 each. Pine bathroom cabinet with mirror, £10. Tel: 704169 3 piece suite (2 seater sofa), pale green removable covers, comfortable, 5 years old, £50. Tel: 638419 2 and 3 seater settee, pastel coloured pattern, £150. Tel: 337060 Futon bed, steel frame with pine slats and large heavy mattress, used twice, cost £185, for sale at £75. Tel: 637258 Shrieiber 5 drawer chest, mahogany finish, £45. Creda Hallmark electric cooker, £30. Pine bookcase, £30. Tel: 617910 Ice Master stainless steel knife, never used, £10. House Martin interlocking draughts, never used, £10. Single bed, thick mattress, new. £45. Tel: 612500 Shower screen, 50" x 26" with fittings, good condition, £10. Tel: 72912

Mahogany TV & video cabinet with enclosed doors & drawer storage space. vgc. £50. Tel: 704149 Internal doors half glazed, from Homebase, height 78", width 27", still wrapped. £25 each. Tel: 637258 House clearance, no time wasters. New fridge freezer, frost free, £150. Parkinson cooker £150. Wardrobes, £30. Wall unit, £25. Shed, 7' x 7' x 6'. £75. Tel: 879481 Creda Halogen cooker, fan oven, ceramic top, colour brown. excellent condition, £140 ono. Tel: 638092 Microwave £20. Wardrobes £30. Wall unit £25. Tel: 879481 Microwave, grill, conventional oven. 1000w, Daewoo, one month old, cost £250, sell for £100. Tel: 639536 Electric fire, flame effect, hardly used. £40. Tel: 637234 Cooker Newhome 600S10/Fl 998. green, 3 year Coverplan warranty valid until 31/ 10/02, vgc, £170. Tel: 07951 712727 Electric till, almost new, suit small business. £45. Tel: 511267 Body sculpture rowing machine with computer, hardly used, unwanted gift, good condition, £40. Tel: 725350 Delta deluxe rowing machine, as new. £25 ono. Tel: 704149 Mobile phone, unwanted gift, Samsung SGH-R200S, still boxed, with aim card, £80. Tel: 875938 Trium Mars mobile with extra cover and case. Vodaphone network, £40. Tel: 727593 Drum machine, new. still boxed, unwanted gift, £50. Tel: 872541 Leitz projection cassettes for 50 colour slides each, boxed in pairs, £1 per box. Tel: 702976 Playstation One, vgc, £50. Exercise bike, £15. Tel: 874138 Brother AX110 electronic typewriters, little used, £25 ea. Tel: 0776 9808 732 Voice fax modem 56K, 6 months old. never used, as new condition, £15. Hahnel MCL103 lithium ion battery charger 3.6V/7.2V, 6 months old, as new condition £20. Tel: 320402

iMac 400mhz DVD, Tangarine, zip 100. Epson stylus 740 printer and Epson Perfection 610 scanner, hardly used. excellent condition, £800 ono. Tel: 07796136912 Sony 4 mini separates, still boxed, brand new. guaranteed, £200. Tel: 876398 Barometer/thermometer, Victorian antique, £50 ono. Tel: 349814 Large indoor multilevel rabbit cage, £45. Tel: 637258 Rabbit hutch. 4ft long, extra run underneath, never used. hand made, with 1 inch wood. £40. Tel: 724512 R reg 50cc moped vgc, tax & MOT until end Sept, Piaggia Typhoon, £450 ono. Tel: 345605 Renault 19RTI 5 door, saloon. M reg. 1400cc. MOT July 02, electric windows, good condition, £1,600 ovno. Tel: 346541 Suzuki DRZ400S Enduro style motorcycle. less than 50 miles from new, taxed & ready to ride away, £4,000. Tel: 528992 Yamaha scooter, CWS 50 1997 derestricted, data tagged. red and black, 5900 miles. Weise padded trousers, Terreno Sidi jacket, Orina7 leather gloves, Bi-2 helmet, waterproof shoe covers. all good nick & all weather, £795. Tel: 634142

Freeprivate for Sate & Wanted ads p Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea,

Name & Address (not for publication)

am to Sing Phone Swindon 340437 for further information

L-------------------j

Exchange 3 bed semi in rural Hereford, d/g, driveway, for same in Swindon or area. Tel: 873249

To let Weymouth 3 bed caravan, all mod cons, clubs and pool on site. Tel: 639774 Naish Holiday Park, nr Bournemouth, 3 bedroom caravan, good site facilities. Tel: 533387

To rent Large single fully furnished room to rent, family home in Grange Park, £70/week, inclusive. Tel: 872531

Wanted Extension ladders in good condition. Tel: 422852 Outdoor baby swing and stairgate. Tel: 432664

The Link Magazine â€˘ March 2002

Sainsbury's silence throws up smoke screen to obscure inaction Sainsbury's has been accused of laying a 'smoke screen' to cover up the reasons behind its smoking policy. For over a year Stephen Walker from Grange Park has been trying to persuade the supermarket to make the restaurant at its Bridgemead store smoke free. The Link first published his complaint this time last year, 12 months after an article in the January 2000 Link encouraged Asda to do a U turn

and ban smoking from the whole of the West Swindon Centre. As a former GP Stephen is very familiar with the ill effects of smoking. "Cigarette smoke kills. No one doubts that," he said. "You don't even have to smoke the cigarette yourself - breathing someone else's smoke can be just as dangerous. So why do Sainsbury's continue to expose customers and staff to a known health hazard?" After discussing his complaints with the local store manager, Stephen took his campaign to Sainsbury's head office who authorised a customer opinion survey on smoking last summer and a decision on smoking policy was to be made at board level. His attempts to find out the result have been met with a wall of silence. "They have ignored my enquiries on the outcome of last year's survey. Head office no longer responds to letters or my phone calls, not that they gave much away before clamming up. Head office says it is a decision for local management. Robin Ireland,

and accessories With 230 bikes on ShOW PartsRepairs workshop Open: Mon to Sat THE choice is great 9am to 5.30pm THE price is right Closed Sundays THE forecourt parking is free T9 C^EfICF37OA

sacnamI

Bridgemead store ni anager, says it is up to head office to decide policy. Stalemate, as well as stale air. They could not or would not explain how they justified their smoking policy, when I first complained, despite being 'aware of the health risks'. So what is the problem Sainsbury's? Why the smokescreen, what are you afraid

1 WE A HERE

Toni ,,u NNA

60a Beechcroft Road (ex car showroom) Between Stratton Crossroads and Kingsdown

of?

"If you are planning to follow the advice of the World Health Organisation and ban smoking in public places, say so. If not, come clean and tell us why not." Following the decision to ban smoking at the West Swindon Centre, including the Asda Red Balloon restaurant, no reduction in business was reported. Indeed customers commented favourably about the move. The Link invited Sainsbury's to make a statement about their smoking policy but they did not reply.

CL?a^ ^ iz Gi niww D1PEii Windows, Doors & Conservatories PVCu, Hardwood,

Aluminium Primary & Secondary Glazing

Letters to The Link

April 2002 Document L Compliant

Where does all the money go? From Ramnik Mehta, Ramleaze

I was interested to read the explanations for proposed council tax increases by well over three times the inflation rate from the leaders of the three political parties in the February Link. Mike Bowden is blaming the government for giving less grant for the next financial year but does not give comparative value for the current year. Money value is more meaningful and understandable than a percentage figure. Perhaps you can give this so your readers can understand. The council want to plough an additional ÂŁ1.55 million into education. What will we be getting in return? More of the same? How can the state or county council i mprove education by giving more money to the same professional people? Does more money make them give more value? From where? Perhaps your readers could have some comparative figures to understand how education sector

Tel: SWINDON [011981100105

( New thermal insulation legislation) salaries compares with all tax payers salaries. Do not forget we have many service industries paying rock bottom salaries in Swindon. The new housing developments in Swindon represent more rateable properties and more income. I am sure after accounting for extra provision of services to the new areas there would be an economy of scale benefit accruing to the

council and the tax payers. Without going too much into detail, I believe it would be simple to explain:

1. What the council spends in the current year for what services. 2. What the council will be spending in the next financial year for identical services? 3. What we will be getting for the additional rates we are asked to fork out? Simplified unadulterated information without political propaganda please.

SERVICE

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CARPENTRY/JOIN

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Sigma Computer Solutions v Manufacture & fitting, or v Supply & fitting of standard joinery items to suit your individual requirements :• Fitted wardrobes & kitchens :• Doors, architectural mouldings, skirtings, dodo, panelling Please feel free to ask for items not listed. Free no oblieation quotations

^^,

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Conservatories Quality double glazed windows, doors and conservatories For a free, no obligation quote at your convenience, call 01793 873424 or 07968 355557

ELECTRICIAN

ELECTRICAL / PLUMBING

ELECTRICAL SERVIC ES

Dave Ody

SHAW Electrical & Plumbing Ltd

,F ?4e Seu ee4

For all your domestic & commercial requirements New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards Free quotes 24hr call out facility

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294 Ramleaze, Swindon

Domestic, commercial & industrial installations lighting rewiring fuse boxes upgraded

installations tested

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power & electric showers * heating * bathroom installation security lighting

Tel: (01793) 874480 • Mobile: 07860 760364 N

ER¢ National Inspection Council o..o o •.R^ for Electrical Installation Contracting

MORTGAGES & LOANS) I PLUMBING & HEATIN

Need a mortgage or loan?

SPARES • REPAIRS • SERVICE

Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers ; • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations

Reg

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YOUR FIRST STOP FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT From a 13 amp fuse or cleaner bag to fridges or vacuum cleaners we offer an efficient & personal service. DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTRE II The Arcade, High Street Wootton Bassett Tel: 01793 854378 REMOVALS & STORAGE I ,^^R ,[WICf W^ J IMI

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1 2896fi

Free mortgage guide from website W W W.MMBFINANCE.CO.UK Adverse credit loans up to 95% Ltv

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

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Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loans secured on it. W ri tten quotations available on request

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

Tel: 01793 886947 Mob: 0780 3432312

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REMOVALS +^yp

• 'W.•.. blgs. r /!h..,rr rrund

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Tel: 01793 772888

THE MAN WITH A VAN (Est 1993) • 24hrs - 7 days a week • Single Items to a Full House • 8 Different Size Vehicles • Disposal of Unwanted Items

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444 EMail: ashobbs@theashgroup.freeserve.co.uk

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Repairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners

John Phillips Servicing 25 years experience. All work guaranteed

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Same day, local service wherever possible

• Most leading

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SERVICES

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No call out charge • No VAT

A SUDS

Hall & Son Ltd A reputation built on quality Traditional carpentry & building services Kitchens, loft conversions, stairs, doors, building work, bedroom fitments, domestic & commercial works undertaken Free, no obligation quotations

Call 01793 644313 or 07768 271994

DECORATOR CeteWtiay 15 yeaks p6tKt *4

4Kb becowiKc

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Offering a high standard of work with references available. Telephone for a free estimate:

DECORATOR

D ECOR ATOR

Highly experienced painter and decorator All interior and exterior work undertaken

For free estimatf call Paul on

07774 - 208527 days',

or 870515 eves.

GARDEN SERVICES

Grass cutting Hedge trimming • Regular, occasional or one-off • Long grass no problem • Clean, tidy work • Sensible prices • Odd jobs, fencing repairs, etc. Friendly, 7 day service Chris Reed Swindon 538839 Mobile: 07702 285865

REMOVAL S/S T O RAGE

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46 The Link Magazine • March 2002

Caravansari congregation inducts vicar in three way service Ruth, who has the title of Anglican Priest-Missioner said, "the induction was very moving - both literally and spirtually. It was such a great beginning to a ministry, to be welcomed by so many people from different traditions and to be working with them to convey the message of Christ into this new community." To contact the North Swindon Ecumenical Partnership team: Rev Brian Sweetman, Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads, tel: 706558; Fr Liam Slattery, St Mary's Church, Tovey Road, tel: 535089 Rev Ruth Cram, tel: 701353 (For baptisms & weddings, tel: 523168)

A bus and car loads of church members, ministers and friends toured North Swindon on 26 January to welcome new Church of England vicar Rev Ruth Cram to the area. After starting at the brand new worship centre attached to the Taw Hill Medical Centre, the caravan then took in a more traditional service at St Andrew's, off Tadpole Lane and ended at Christ the Servant at Abbey Meads village centre where Ruth was welcomed by all the denominations involved with the North Swindon ecumenical Project. Rev Cram, with from left, coun Stan Pajak, deputy mayor of Swindon, team members Father Liam Slattery, Rev Brian Sweetman, minister at Christ the Servant, the Bishop of Szc'indon Rev Michael Doe

Fairtrade: check it out for a good deal all round

vangelc I

Worsley Road

budding with people

Come and join us

Sunday at I Oam & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050, call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org Jesus said: "I hair come that YOU might have LIFE aunt hi r e it in its fulness"

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH SUNDAYS 10.30AM THE WINNERS LOUNGE SWINDON TOWN F.C. PINEHURST PEOPLE S CENTREI NOW... WE ARE BACK ON THE FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT LINK CENTRE

For more information. inclu. midweek activities, call Brian on 849731 in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Wiltshire Agenda 21 is looking for community groups, schools and churches to organise events during Fairtrade Fortnight 3 to 16 March and also individuals to think and buy Fairtrade. Products branded with the Fairtrade logo ensure or school, introducing Fairtrade products at a staff that the farmers who produce the goods receive fair canteen, persuading your local shop to stock their wages and work in decent conditions. It also enables products, or organising a food and drink tasting the farmers to use practices that respect the local and session. Call Wiltshire Agenda 21 on 01380 729218 for an global environment. Fairtrade products include coffee, tea, chocolate, action pack and information, or checkout fruit juices and dried fruit, which are packaged in an www.fairtrade.org.uk environmentally friendly way too. Events can be Fairtrade coffee morning, Thursday 14 March, large or small such as putting a display in a church 10am -12 noon, Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Centre

Still a lot to play for Aerobics, hockey, football, dance, badminton, as well as table-tennis, skateboarding, board-games, giant Jenga, remote-controlled cars and a quiz were just a few of the activities which 17 children from the partnership churches in West Swindon and the Lydiards took part in during a 12 hour sponsored workout on 9 February at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw village centre, writes Claire Camm. The sports and activity challenge A Game of Two Halves raised money for third world development agency Tearfund which is promoting sporting activity in poor countries. According to Sally Gatei, a community worker in Kenya, young people won't attend sessions about HIV/ AIDS, drugs and health, but if you start a sports programme they horde in; then you can teach them about these vital issues. In other areas, sports clubs are a valuable means of drawing vulnerable homeless children and young people off the streets - providing them with a safe place to play and make friends and receive some care and advice from adults about training and employment possibilities. We were ready to drop by 9pm, but felt we had achieved something really worthwhile in giving up our time and energies and raising £250 to this very Some of the youngsters rc ho took par! important project.

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (for the Village & Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw - 10:30am: (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre): 874221 St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 10:00am Revd Ann Mackenzie: 870244 Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Mark Roper: 692620 (also Free Church minister for the parish) Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Knight: 772417 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

We are

(:reenmeadow Primar

School ^I

r here! ye 0

go. °' z °iv -

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

Thames Aye•

¢mac

To Safeway

North Swindon Baptist Church

• Sunday Worship 10.30am - Sunday Scho ol & Creche Pastor Dennis Weaver

Web: http://nsbc.org.uk TEL: (01793) 345051

The Link Magazine • March 2002

Bola's business booms with divine assistance The response to a feature about Bola Clemo's multi-cultural catering service in the November 1999 Link was so good that she and her husband Hedley, who live in Freshbrook, decided it was time to turn their hobby into a serious business project. Since then Bola's Kitchen has really taken off and has featured in Swindon Business News and both local and national Business Link magazines. "The Link story was very effective over two years ago and people still refer to it," said Bola. "We had lots of calls to book our Afro-Caribbean meals. This, and more importantly the guidance of God, encouraged us to seek advice from Business Link and to take their business start-up course." Bola has always loved cooking and finds catering for 250 people just as easy as cooking for ten. "My father was a village chief in Nigeria and the house was often full of people and food was always being served. I did not cook when

Several different packages are

Fantastic reader response Link magazine readers have broken all records for joining the lottery

run by Swindon's Prospect Hospice. The number of application forms returned from the February edition has been described as 'absolutely fantastic' by the lottery coordinator Jenny Evans. A delighted Jenny ing one for the top prize said that in the three of £1,000. There is no weeks after The Li nk apneed to claim. peared, twenty one The odds are good forms had been retoo, one in thirty memturned. bers wins. But if you "This is the best don't, Prospect does newspaper response you always know exwe've had since the lotactly where your money tery was launched in is going. November 1999. We're If you missed the all thrilled to bits that chance to join the lotyour readers have Over the moon ... Jenny tery last month, here is joined the Prospect Lot- Evans (who denies all the form again. tery and I'm happy to resemblance to the Let's try and break report that two have Vicar of Dibley) another record. already won prizes." Complete and return The lottery provides the hospice the form to the Prospect Hospice with a regular sustainable income lottery office. Winning cheques are to provide a high standard of care posted and the winning numbers for patients and their families. Each are printed every night in the week seventy nine people receive Evening Advertiser and announced a cheque through the post includ- on BBC Wiltshire Sound.

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available, from a served meal or buffet, to dishes prepared and delivered for self-service. "The Lord is our inspiration in this project; you could say this is ministry through business," said Hedley, "We're not preaching to our customers, but we do take the time to understand their requirements, out of that comes friendship. Several members of the church now work with us in preparing, cooking and serving the food, and our children also help make each event a success." Profits from Bola's Kitchen support the family's church Wroughton Assemblies of God and raise funds for bible clubs at Tregoze primary in Grange Park, where it has run for nearly ten years, and Greendown where Bola and Hedley's children attend. Whether you want to organise a dinner party with a difference, a 40th birthday party, a business lunch, wedding or celebration meal with unusual touches, call Bola's Kitchen on 345395, mobile: 0771 8890299, bola@bolaskitchen.co.uk or visit bolaskitchen.co.uk

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For details on the Prospect Hospice Lottery call Jenny or Joan on 615870 Return to: Prospect Hospice Lottery Office. 12 Havelock Square, Swindon SN1 1LE L— — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

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younger, yet when I came to England to train as a nurse, I discovered I had a talent for catering for large numbers." As committed Christians Bola and Hedley became well known for their cooking at church gatherings, dinner parties and also events at their children's school. Bola's Kitchen now offers catering and crockery hire for up to two hundred and a menu that has extended beyond Afro-Caribbean dishes to take in Thai, Mexican, Italian, Chi-

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