West Swindon's
Magazine
No. 98 May 1990 • Circulation 10,500
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10 year birthday this month at Oliver Tomkins School The pupils at Oliver Tomkins School, Toothil spent last term looking back over the ten years since their school opened. Every class in both the infants and the juniors used some aspect of the ten years in the life of the school in their studies. The early part of May will be spent celebrating the birthday. The pupils in Mrs Browns third year class (pictured right) worked with Barbara Cady, a parent from Freshbrook who offered to help them create a banner depicting the school and its activities. The youngsters used different types of fabric in a collage which portrays all the subjects studied under the national curriculum and the close connection the school has with the Church. The school will be filled throughout May with displays of project work completed last term, and an exhibition of information showing the history of the school from when it was being planned. There will be a big fun day on Friday 4 May for the children when there will be a playground party and hopefully a visit from Bishop Oliver Tomkins, the former Bishop of Bristol.
It ASDA get better Following publication of a critical letter last month, a group of residents visited the ASDA store manager. Read about the meeting on page12.
Plans for new village centre on show West Swindon's fourth village centre is now being planned for a site next to Peatmobr Lagoon. Although the centre, to serve Rougmoor and Sparcells, won't be built for some years, the planners at Thamesdown Council want to hear from people with an opinion about their proposals. Turn to pages 26 and 27 for details of a public exhibition. The area's newest building. All the way from Taiwan, but missing it's fop 'knob,' the mini pagoda on the island in Peatmoor Lagoon, opposite the Chinese Experience and the Roughmoor Village Centre site.
Link Magazine does well in big survey This time last year, many readers were returning a survey form published in The Link, in conjunction with Thamesdown Councils Community Development Division. Its taken some time we know, but we will publish the results over the next few editions. Altogether 568 survey forms were returned for analysis. This represents a 6% return rate from the 9,500 households which received The Link. Considering that the form was quite long, and required concentration, this was a very good response. The fact that so many people committed themselves to filling out
the form all the way to the end gives us confidence in the overall picture that the survey provides of West Swindon. The survey asked where readers live now and where they lived before arriving in the area; what they think of the services and facilities available here, and what they think of The Link magazine. In this edition we concentrate on the questions asked about The Link. For us, the results make welcome reading as it indicates that the magazine is providing what the readers want. On page 2 we start to look at how readers see us.
It's Election Time once more Voting takes place on Thursday 3rd May for seats on Thamesdown Council. On pages 4 and 5 we've invited the candidates for the seats in the Toothill and Freshbrook wards to introduce themselves.
Let's link hands for the Telethon PHH at Windmill Hill need West Swindon residents to form a giant circle around their building at Windmill Hill Business Park. Donate a ÂŁ1, Join hands and help raise cash for local charities by going along on Friday 4 May at 5p.m. Lamb racing at Southleaze Sheep Farm for the Telethon. See page 26 for details.
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BRITISH PAPER & BOARD
INDUSTRY
FEDERATION
PHOTOCOPYING from single copies to 80 page bound books
SINGLE COPIES 7p per copy
The
Survey
Our first question asked how you find out what is going on in West Swindon. Of our 568 responses, by far the largest (531) said that The Link provides this information, and 323 said they found out from friends and other people. Newspapers provided this information for 311 people, whilst 195 said they found out fromthe radio and fromposters.
7 never read When we asked whether our 36 somnimes The Link readers read The Link, 525 said read The Link they always do so, 36 read it sometimes and 7 never read it. 'S What is even more interesting is III,,. IIIII/ 'S'S'S'S'S• 'S's'S'S'S'S the time spent reading the magazine. / I I I I I•.• I I I / / / / 'S'S'S'S'S',•., 'S'S'S'S'S'S Ill/Il Il/Il/I 388 of the people who filled in . .. . ..t..'S the form spent between 15 minutes / 525 . o. 568 .e p.n.e 5 and one hour reading it, whilst I always read The Link
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Posters
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How do people find out what's going on in West Swindon?
Friends & Others
'Artwork facilities available -Double sided copying -Collating/stapling
British Paper & Board Industry Federation Papermakers House Rivenhall Road We st lea Tel: 886086
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The Link 0
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Our distribution system seems to stand up under scrutiny. 455 of the households (80%) received the magazine without fail, whilst 111 people said they'd been missed out once in a while. Two people said they rarely or never receive The Link, although they obviously received the survey issue!
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well-organised, and that so few consider these pages boring, narrow minded and uninteresting. We'll have to try harder at being unusual and humourous, although we had better be careful following the upset caused by the April Fool
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another 49 spent more than an hour with it. 455 people said more than one member of the household looked at The Link. We were flattered to learn that 65% of the respondents said they would be willing to pay 20p or more for the magazine, but we don't propose to change the present arrangement where every house in West Swindon receives it free of charge. Then we asked you to describe the magazine and tell us whether it's a useful publication. The replies are illustrated in the bar graph below. We're glad to hear you say The Link is easy to read, welcome and
We were particularly interested to know how we compare with other publications. Locally, only 164 households took the Evening Advertiser on a daily basis, whilst a further 218 sometimes bought it. A total of 382 readers bought the EA, but only 311 ticked 'newspapers' as a source of news about what is going on in West Swindon, compared to 531 turning to The Link for local news. Of course, we don't see The Link as competing with the Adver., rather we try to be a specialised source of local news and information which readers recognised in the survey. In future editions we take a closer look at what readers think of the facilities and services available in West Swindon.
The Link is 600
Full a la carte menu and three course inclusive menu at £8.50. Children welcome. Family lunches on Sundays. Relax before and after in our intimate bar lounge.
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Hotel Ibis, Delta Business Park Great Western Way, West Swindon. Telephone: 514777
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Narrow minded
Come and try the selection o French, English and European dishes in our warm and friendly restaurant. You'll be delighted by the good quality and reasonable prices
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Comprehensive
There's live Dixieland Jazz at the Hotel Ibis with the Pete Allen Jazz Band on the third Sunday of the month. Reserve a ticket, which Includes a buffet lunch, on 514777.
Well-organised
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FRONT PIECE
Our apology
Disabled to tour park
annual April Fool competition should have created such a reaction. The question has to be asked, was the story believable? At first reading, the article was quite convincing. But with a second look, seeing as the poll tax on people has been argued about for the last five years and that there has been no mention of a poll tax on pets on TV, on the radio or in any newspaper, could a 200 word article in The Link be true? As the controversy raged at the beginning of the month we learnt that Christine May's article on a 6,000 year old bejewelled skeleton found in a Freshbrook hedgerow in April 1988 was still doing the rounds. To get back to the last edition, the winner of the writing competition was Sheila Mitchell of Moresby Close, Westlea. She Published by West gets £10 forthe Poll Tax on Pets' Swindon Publications article and for causing aggravation 13 Castle Dore all round. Freshbrook, Swindon The runners up were Rosemary Editorial: Roger Ogle, Evans of Shaw for her exclusive Publisher/Editor on farmers claiming ancient Tel: (0793) 872282 grazing rights on land they once Advertising Sales: owned at Ramleaze, and Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 Freshbrook Church for the report d Apple Macintosh design, on a sculpture presented by a layout and lasersetting by Tibetan Christian. Keystrokes Electronic Design We're thinking about what kind Printed by Western Webb, Bristol of warning might be displayed on the cover of next April's Link Published on the Wednesday closest to the first of the month. magazine. Suggestions from readers welcome. Copy date for the -Pets corner page 26.
The publication last month of an April Fool story entitled Pet Ownersto Pay Poll Taxfrom 1991' upset a number of readers. We received two letters (see page 30) and 6 people telephoned to complain. We understand that a larger number of mainly elderly readers were distressed by the suggestion that pets were to be taxed. Posters were put up in public buildings explaining that the story was untrue and the Evening Advertiser ran an article saying the same. We are sorry to have upset any of our readers and apologise if we have caused unnecessary worry. We were genuinely surprised that the story written as part of our
The Link
June edition: 20th of May.
The June edition will be published on 30 May. "The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It Is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."
Market update The long awaited open air market at the West Swindon Centre should open at the end of May or early June. The delay in opening has been put down to 'technical problems of a legal nature' between Thamesdown Council and the market operators.
LJS(NESS
A unique 'vehicle,' which will allow people in wheelchairs to enjoy the outdoors is to be launched at Lydiard Park on 2 May. Conscious that some people with disabilities cannot get round its parks, Thamesdown Council commissioned and will market a battery powered platform onto which a wheelchair can be pushed and secured. The 'Easirider' is so designed to allow access to 'rougher' areas in parks and avoids having to lay tarmac everywhere. The vehicle is believed to be the first of its kind and is likely to earn the Council revenue from sales.
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Contents 3 Front Piece
Council candidates Toothill Freshbrook & Grange Park Westlea Shaw Recreation 13 For Women 14-15 Arts 16 At Your Library 18 Link Centre 19 Green Tendencies 20-21 Education Matters 22 Day in the Life 23-28 New & Views Home & Garden 29 Letters & Small Ads. 31
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Tony Free
Marilyn Harrison
Rosemary Saunders
Labour Party
Green Party
Conservative Party
When I first chose West Swindon as my home some 13 years ago it was just a collection of houses with no shops, community centres, no adequate pavements or street lighting and no councillors. What we did have was the birth of a community. It was the sense of belonging to this community that encouraged me to help look after the interests of the people of the area. During the 13 years I have worked to represent the views of all sections of the community. Only the Labour Party in our ward holds regular weekly advice sessions, and we are the only party to produce leaflets informing residents of local issues throughout the year - not just at election time. Over the last 12 months as your councillor I have dealt with over 300 individual problems for residents. I have watched with anger as the Tory Poll Tax has been introduced - this will cause more and more financial hardship to those at the lower end of the earnings scale. My depth of feeling for our area is based on the desire to improve thequalityoflifeforallofus - and for our children. I look forward to continuing mypartnershipwith you as residents - whatever your political belief; and Jam confident that given the opportunity, I can continue with the work that has proven so successful for us all.
I have lived in Swindon all my life and Toothill for 5 years, and have therefore experienced changes to Swindonfirst hand. In mywork, as a Special Welfare Assistant, (at Westlea Primary School), and as the mother offour children, I know the problems facing local families. I am a member of the Green Party because I share a view of society in which people and nature are respected, where local communities have control over their own lives, and the local environment. 'Greens' believe that the social, environmental and spiritual costs of pursuing permanent industrial expansion outweigh the advantages. We therefore support sustainable, small-scale local production and consumption which emphasises moderation. We are against the Poll Tax and instead would implement a tax based on the value and use to which land is put. Many of these issues must be addressed by national government, however, here are some priorities: • Relocating Council services to a West Swindon district office. • Supporting after school care schemes for children and providing workplace nurseries. • Improving community facilities in Westlea and Shaw. • Declaring a 'Green Belt' between Swindon and Wootton Bassett. • Ensuring that the environment is respected in any development schemes approved. A vote for the Green Party is a vote for the future. We have just taken control of our first council (Stroud), and you can help safeguard your children's futures by voting for me on May 3rd. The other parties promise the moon, only the Green Party guarantees the earth.
A Conservative controlled Thamesdown Borough Council pledges to maintain services, and at the same time save you money. This may seem impossible to achieve in the light of the current Community Charge controversy, but thefactis that the Thamesdown Community Charge is high because spending by Thamesdown and Wiltshire Councils is too high. Against our advice, Labour and Liberal councillors who control both Councils have deliberately pushed up their spending. The Community Charge will, for the first time, put Thamesdown Borough Council under pressure to provide local services efficiently, and to cut out waste. Look at the results of a decade of Socialism in Swindon. Half the roads are falling to pieces, the other half are badly congested. Shopping facilities in the centre of Swindon have deteriorated. While Conservative Councils use their assets to pay for what the community needs, socialists sit on theirs! Tories don't hang on to shopping Centres like the Brunel, or land which could provide houses and jobs which are badly needed. The Community Charge is based on one fair principle, what you vote for is what you pay for! A Conservative controlled Borough Council and County Council will reduce the Community Charge by £50 a head within two years through making maximum use of assets and providing services in a more business like way. Please give me the chance to be your voice on Thamesdown Borough Council.
NCIL ELECTIONS - MAY 3rd The candidates for Freshbrook Ward (including Grange Park)
Sue Bates
Julie Deacon
Labour Party
Green Party
I have lived in Frcshbrook for 10 years, watching our area grow and mature and have always been actively involved in campaigning for improved facilities. My son Sam attends Oliver Tomkins Infants School,where I've served as a governor for 9 years. Some local campaigns I have been involved in over the years are: the provision of Greendown Community School, securing the site for Windmill School, more adequate footpaths, better street lighting, and last year was successful in securing a fairer booking system for disabled parents wanting to book their children into Lincoln's Camp. I reject the Tory Poll Tax which is unfair and unjust and support a system based on the individuals ability. to pay. Ifully support Labour Thamesdown's 'environmental charter'. Thamesdown is committed to improving and updating its procedures to make them more environmentally friendly. I, together with the local Labour Party believe in full consultation with all residents. We arc the only patty locally which holds regular advice surgeries (52 last year), the only party to produce regular newsletters, keeping you informed on the issues in our area -6 produced in the last 11 months; in fact the only party to keep in touch all year round. We are not fair weather friends, our commitment lasts all throughout the year, not just at election time. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank residents for their messages of support during the campaign, and look forward to serving you all as your local councillor. Use your vote wisely on May 3rd, RE-ELECT LABOUR- a vote for Labour is a vote for the continuation of provision of good facilities and services for us all.
The Green Party wants a society in which resources are shared fairly; work is satisfying and creative; nature is respected and conserved; and individuals have control over the own lives. We believe that current policies of endless economic expansion (supported by both the Tories nationally and the Labour Party here in Swindon) have put our society in conflict with the future of the planet itself. The solution lies with our economic strategywhich meets basic needs, rather than promoting economic expansion, using technology which is both beneficial to, and controlled by the community. Since automation is already replacing many jobs and skills, we must develop small-scale production and self-employment which allows maximum personal freedom and creativity. Here are some of the objectives I will work towards as a Green Councillor: • Implementing a programme of energy conservation, improving insulation in Council houses and giving grants to assist private owners to do the same. Improving energy conservation in all public buildings. • Developing a comprehensive recycling service collecting paper, cardboard, glass, plastics, metals and aluminium cans separately with the weekly refuse collection. • Stopping further development and declaring a 'Green Belt' between Swindon and Wootton Bassett. • Providing facilities for Grange Park. • Introducing a rapid transport, light railway system linking West Swindon with the town centre, and other areas of the town. • Ensuring all new development schemes approved give space to wildlife and new planting. • Providing workplace nurseries and after school care for children. • Fitting all Council vehicles with catalytic convertors.
Matthew Pearce
Freda Trougton
SDP
Conservative Party
25 year old Matthew Pearce is a computer technician in Swindon and a part-time religious affairs correspondent for BBC Wiltshire Sound. Matthew prides himself on putting local people and local issues first. "That's why I'm campaigning foranother entrance to the Windmill Hill Business Park, (this time Onto Great Western Way), to be given the go-ahead" says Matthew. "It is the key to alleviating the traffic chaos along Whitehill Way. Stopping the new BMW factory from having an access road onto Hook Street, andfighting for more pavements, are at the top of my agenda too," continues Matthew. "It's these day to day problems the local problems - that for me matter most." Matthew supports the SDP's alternative to the Poll Tax. "The Poll Tax should be scrapped", says Matthew. "It's our view that the amount you pay should be based on income, so that everyone pays, but according to their ability to pay." Matthew Pearce is the popular choice as SDP candidate because of his enthusiastic hardworking style. Local SDP councillor Simon Cordon comments: "Matthew Pearce has my total support. He is articulate, intelligent and determined. I know that he has both the energy and time to make a first class borough councillor for our area." The SDP has won in Freshbrook and Grange Parkfour times before, each time beating Labour with Conservatives a poor third. With your support, on May 3rd, Matthew Pearce and the SDP can win again.
I retired after 40 years in publishing, and have personal knowledge of bringing up a son singlehanded and looking after a widowed mother. I now spend my time in voluntary work in many spheres. My message to Conservatives in Freshbrook is get out and vote on May 3rd. Don't listen to the siren voices which are echoing across Britain - they are purely destructive, perhaps in order to cover up their own deficiencies. This time next year, when the Government has had time to make the necessary adjustments to the Community Charge - as it surely will - we shall be asking ourselves what local government has spent our money on because it will no longer have Central Government to blame! Thamesdown Council employed 40 additional staff to administer the Community Charge - when the latter is up and running, will there be a reduction ofstaffin that section. It is doubtful, NALGO won't allow it! Let's have a few more Conservative councillors to monitor local government finances - and a good many other things which need bringing into the light! The choice of the election is between Conservative Value for Money and Labour and SDP Waste and Extravagance. The choice is yours!
6 Runners for fun
TOOTHILL Work on Youth Centre starts
An outing at Lydiard Park, rear 1. to r., Liam Glockling, Oliver Marshall, Andrew Witchell, Wayne Eggleton, Brian Gardner, Kirsty Arthur, Justin Smith, Duane Maslen. Front, Richard Norriss, Brenden Edwards, Michael Fallows, Anthony Driscoll, Kevin Dunn, Gary Driscoll
Thirteen Toothill School pupils were recently awarded certificates and badges for completing a cross country running programme. The squad trained twice a week during the spring term as part of the Five Star Scheme run by the Amateur Athletics Association and sponsored by Esso. Teacher Brian Gardner, who coached the youngsters, said the main aim was to promote running as an enjoyable way of getting exercise. Points were awarded for attendance, per-formance and achievement in races run within the squad. The pupils took part in an inter-
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school cross country race at Newbury in March. In the girls race Kirsty Arthur, who came eighth last year, took first place against sixty runners. Justin Smith came sixth in a field of 80 boys. Altogether Toothill School had six runners in the top twenty finishers.
Cartoon Time Toothill School's Festival of Story telling at the end of March ended with all the pupils and the staff drawing one giant cartoon together. A piece of paper some 400 yards long was trailed right through the school and everybody drew a scene from their favourite story. Pictured below is one small section of the cartoon being drawn.
3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon - Fri 9a.m. - 1p.m. 2p.m. - 6p.m. Sat. 9a.m. -12 noon Telephone: 512063
Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food Take-Away Menu Tel: 487055 1 I
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
Hours of Business 6- 1130pm Closed all day 5- 1130pm 12-1.45pm 5-11.30pm 12-1.45pm 5-11.30pm 12- 1.45pm 5- 12.00am 5 - 1200am 12 - 2.00pm
Renovating their building, front row Catherine Felton, Zara Porter, Jackie Warren, centre Simon Ford, rear, I. to r. Craig Macintosh, Sean Lea, Darren Stainer
Whilst lease negotiations Work has started on improving a much needed facility for young between owners Thamesdown Council and the West Swindon people living in West Swindon. The old cow shed at Toothill Youth Resource Committee take Farm is having ÂŁ10,000 and a lot of place, a band of young people have voluntary effort spent to make it started work on Sundays to clean more attractive to teenagers. This the building out and prepare for phase of renovation is the fourth specialist contractors to arrive. Simon Ford, of Kirkstall Close, over the last fourteen years, starting when a group of volunteers first Toothill, one of the original users pitched in and forked a few tons of and now a trained youth worker, is manureoutof the near derelict fa rm being employed by the Youth Service to develop the youth centre. building. Since then, volunteers and grants "We're doing some of the work from Thamesdown Council have beforehand so that we can stretch allowed gradual upgrading of the the money available. One of the structure with a wooden floor, a conditions of the contract with new roof, toilets and kitchen being building firms is that they do some added bit by bit. On each occasion of the work on Sundays, so that the youth centre has had to close young people can learn a bit about for months whilst work went on bricklaying, woodwork, plastering which meant users had nowhere to and decorating. "When its completed the go. This time, with a grant of10,000 from the Wilts. County Council building will be used for social get Youth Service, young people hope togethers, band practices, selfthat the building can be finished defence classes and for meetings. once and for all and the centre In the past Toothill Farm youth club has been exclusively for use of opened continuously, The work taking place over the local young people. My brief is to next few months includes adding work on breaking down the TV, darts and meeting rooms to the barriers; hopefully it can become a existing hall, installing a damp youth centre foryoungpeople right across West Swindon." proof course and redecoration. The Westlea Fire crew paid a visit to Dunwich Drive Playgroup in April. Trying the equipment for size are Andrew Lewis and Miles Gardner left, and trying a new kind of water play with Fireman Martin Baldwin, Rebecca Lewis.
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK Road safe kids A group of nine and ten year olds at Windmill Hill School have shown that they know more about Road Safety than any others in Swindon. They were entered following a class test into a one and half hour knock out competition against 16 other primary schools in early April. Answering all fifty questions correctly put them into the Wiltshire Final which took place on 25 April. Although they didn't win, the youngsters had an enjoyable evening representing North East Wiltshire against 19 other schools The team who beat other Swindon schools, I. to r., Parmjeet Dhillon, David Cornforth, from all over the county. Tommy Parson, Sam Hartup people don't trip over it and get hurt. It should have been removed A lighting bollard which has been or fixed months ago." rolling around Freshbrook Village A spokeswoman for ThamesCentre for the last three months has down said she would be looking made a local hairdresser angry. investigate the problem. Sue Collins, looking angry below, runs the Cut 'ii Dry salon. Free drink and biscuit She said that the bollard was Freshbrook Community Centre's knocked out of the ground by a car cafe Cuppas did so well with their but owners of the village centre, free tea offerlast month that in May Thamesdown Council have shown they're offering a free drink and a little interest in repairing it. homemade biscuit to children who 'People use the bollard as a visit with their parents. plaything. It gets rolled round the Welcoming smiles from Cuppas staff, 1. pedestrian walkway outside the to r. Yvonne Wolf, Marie Townsend, shops; it's surprising that more Gillian Lane
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Freshbrook Playgroup held an Easter Concert for parents on 6 April at Freshbrook Community Centre. Pictured below, dressed in their costumes are some of the children and the staff.
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8
WESTLEA Something for Westlea kids Holiday with classmates
Thirty five nine and ten year olds from Westlea School went on holiday in the last week of term, accompanied by three teachers and headteacher Neil Griffiths. Dan-en Midwinter, 9, and Marie Skeffington, 10, (pictured right) got together to write a short account of their trip for us. "On the coach we were a bit sad and a bit excited. We stopped at Salisbury Cathedral for lunch then wenton to Weymouth for the week The hotel was good, so was the food. On the first day we went to the beach, to the harbour, had a look around the shops and went for a long walk On the second day we explored a new beach and then travelled by coach to see a horse and man carved into a hillside. Then we went back to the hotel and played games on the beach. On our third day, we went to the sea life centre and saw sharks and fish in tanks. There was a touch
A Fun Afternoon for children has been arranged to take place on Wednesday 30 May between 2.00p.m. and 4.00p.m. at the George and Ann Tweed Rooms, Westlea School, Lang stone Way, Westlea. The Fun Afternoon is a pilot scheme to raise funds to finance a two day play scheme to take place on Tuesday 31 July and Thursday 2 August and also to get parents interested in the after school activities it is hoped
pool. We picked out things like crabs, jellyfish, then it was back to the hotel for more food. We went swimming on the fourth day and Mr Griffiths swam lots of lengths. It was deeper and a lot colder than the Link Centre. We went to the shops to spend the rest of our £5 spending money on
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presents and then we went back to the hotel and packed all our things. Mr Griffiths bought 38 portions of chips. He didn't have any because he's slimming. Friday, time to go home. We went foryet another long walk then we were on the coach. Dan-en was happy, but Marie was unhappy."
to organize once the new Westlea Community Building has been built. During the course of the afternoon it is hoped that the children will be able to think of a suitable name for the group to identify it from the main Action Group. There will be a prize for the best name. Not only will there be fun activities for the children but there will be some stalls including Tupperware and Handicrafts which it is hoped will be of interest to the parents. Refreshments will be available and also the chance to win one of three pizza vouchers kindly donated by Dominos Pizza, West Swindon Centre. More information can be obtained from Sheila Mitchell, telephone 873062.
Active citizen witholds Poll Tax With the first poll tax payments being made this month, why is it that many people who would describe themselves as 'ordinary' have decided that they are not going to pay the new tax?
One such person is Mary Brooks, a lecturer in Business Computing who lives in Westlea. She says she would be the first to call herself a 'ordinary, good law abiding person.' But as somebody who is not politically involved in any way, who has for waited elections to come round so that she can dutifully makea cross inthe box of her choosing, how is it that she has decided to withhold her financial contribution to local services? She says that she wasn't aroused about the whole poll tax issue until she watched a Government Minister being interviewed on television some months ago. "I can't remember which one it was," said Mary. "But he said words to the effect that the numbers of people paying the Community Charge will demonstrate that this is a fair and popular tax and how happy people are to pay it. At that point I became very angry! "If I simply pay up, the Minister's statistics will registerthatl consider the tax fair! Well, I don't! Any tax which treats the pauper the same as a prince without consideration of ability to pay is immoral." Although her anger her was sparked by a politicians comment, Mary's decision not to pay the poll tax took some thought.
"I'm not political; I'm like everybody else. I pay my income tax and rates; I sit at home and moan and groan and wait for elections to vote. It might seem pathetic, but how can an ordinary person show this Minister what they really think of the tax? "I personally gain from the tax. My Poll Tax bill is less than my rates. But at whose expense? Well, my retired parents for one. Their tax bill is £200 a year more than their old rates; and my son - just starting on the working ladder with a low salary, a large proportion gone in income tax and now another £34 a month to find, and friends, struggling to meet increased mortgage rates on their low rated starter home now paying virtually double their bill." "I never been so angry about a government policy. Deciding not to pay has worried me! I wouldn't even park on a double-yellow line! Talking toTheLinkabout my views just means that at last I have stood up to be counted!" Mary now looks back at that television interview and wonders what she would be doing if she had not heard the ministers comment. But that's past; now she might be considered as an 'active citizen' expressing her viewpoint.
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New Committee elected for Association Outgoing chairperson Mary Case reports on the Annual Meeting of the Shaw Residents' Association held on 2 April.
At the Annual General Meeting of the Shaw Residents' Association, after reviewing matters arising from the previous meeting, four
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new executive officers were elected to see that the business of the Association is carried out. The new officers are Mr Bauld of George Tweed Gardens as chairperson, Mrs Basly, vice-chair, Mrs Stewart, secretary and Mrs Littlewood, treasurer. Following their election the meeting voiced their appreciation to the retiring officers. This was followed by a lengthy discussion about the possibility of handing small sums of accumulated surplus funds to local groups. The constitution of the SRA permits this but the law relating to grants given by the local council to the Association such as ours forbids such a use. A resolution was passed that the retiring chair write to the Thamesdown Borough solicitor for clarification. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support after the past year; in particular Steve Brown, the vicechair. I have enjoyed my three years as an officer of the SRA and will continue to attend meetings. The SRA belongs to the residents of Shaw and will only be effective as long as residents use it. Its activities and its success are determined by this support. It mustn't be allowed to disappear. Please give the new officers your support by attending meetings. The next meeting of the Shaw Residents' Association takes place at 7.45p.m. on 4 June in Shaw Church, Shaw Village Centre.
ents who to know more should ring Helen Drummon on 07.43, Rev. Kieth Soxall on 77O
Antarctic matters Debbie Griffiths reports on the the business at the next meeting of the Shaw Women's Institute
Well, I hope we've all managed to walk off those excess pounds gained from eating too many Easter eggs! With summer evenings just around the corner you might like to jog or stroll along to our next Shaw W.I. meeting - Monday 21st May at Shaw Church. We are discussing our resolutions to be debated at the National Annual Meeting in the Albert Hall in June. One concerns the destruction of the Antarcticwhat we have done to it and what we are going to do about it. My knowledge of the problem extends as far as the report on Blue Peter. So it should be very interesting to find out more. I don't think any of us can be untouched by the publicity to heighten our caring attitude towards our planet. If you care - come along and share your views. I'm off now to secretly eat the last Easter egg. Well, I can't have the children eating too much fat high in polyunsaturates, can I!
Money to make music The pupils at Shaw Ridge School will be making a greater variety of sounds during music class thanks to a grant of ÂŁ250 from the Paul Cooke MemorialTrust, setup following the death of a young Swindon musician. Paul Cooke's sisterJoanne visited Shaw Ridge in April to present the cheque and admire the instruments already purchased. Pictured here with Joanne Cook, back row, from r. to 1, Carrie Hancox, Tania Beagley, Ben Sheppard, Rachel Noone; front, Paul Hancox, Rhydin Williams, Claire McGregor, Rachel Bailey, Kate Adams
RECREATION Good first year for Angling Club
Ian West of Coach Caterers presents the Pizzarama Trophy to Diano Roveri who received it on behalf of the winner Gary Miles. On the left, John Wagner and right, Cohn White
Lee Hogan a fitness instructor from Shaw who runs Bodies by Design writes the first of a series of occasional articles for us.
Exercise,what's it all about? You may be forgiven for thinking 'here we go again, yet another self righteous exercise freak with the same old boring message' Wrong! Well at least I hope so. What I will try and do in this short article is give you some plain facts why we should all take some form of exercise. Regular exercise can improve your strength; everyone uses a certain amount of strength in their normal day to day activities. Flexibility can be maintained and increased with exercise, a benefit which you will appreciate well into your old age. Cycling, running or walking are all activities that require a degree of stamina. LINK Exercises that improve your CENTRE stamina are normally fairly energetic, they need to be, because to get any improvement in the condition of your heart and lungs they have to work harder than they Tuesday 29 May - Friday 1 June would during the course of a 9.30am - 330pm normal day. It is a proven fact that Just ÂŁ2.70 per day regular exercise can reduce the (50p gold Card Holders) incidence of coronary heartdisease. Exercise can help reduce the Hot Link Lunch symptoms of stress and depression. available for ÂŁ1.30 Exercise should form an important part of any weight loss programme Fun holiday activities for 5-12 and certain exercises done on a year olds including ice skating, regular basis can improve your trampolining, basketball, shape and keep you in shape for badminton, swimming, football, longer. arts and crafts. Lee runs Bodies by Design classes at
Lincoln's Spring Holiday Camp
Greendown School on Tuesdays and Sundays 7.30p.m.-8.30p.m., his number is 870691.
in Runs te.$Uflm 'utn
Booking details: Booking for camp will be taken from Monday 14 May, lOam -10.30pm daily. Advanced telephone booking allowed from registered disabled parents/guardians. Further details from Link reception.
West Swindon's Peatmoor Angling Club held its first annual awards evening on 30 March at Toothifi Community Centre. The club, which is open to under 16's, disabled people and pensioners, was launched in early 1989 and started its first fishing at Peatmoor Lagoon, north of Shaw, on 16June. The club now has some 200 young and 50 adults members. For match secretary John Wagner, the season has been excellent. "A year ago a group of people got together with an officer fromThamesdownCounciland we agreed to run the club. We were all new to it then, so the year has been very good from different points of view. The committee has come together well, we havea lot of eager, interested youngsters and older members and the lagoon is becoming the best fishing area in Thamesdown. We've also attracted some good sponsors including Pizzarama who were one of the first when they put up trophies for
11 the winter series of matches." A large number of awards were presented to club members with club captain Ben Grierson picking up at least a dozen shields and trophies. Following the presentations, the fifty people who attended enjoyed a large number of pizzas compliments ofPizzaramaatShaw. Fishing at the Peatmoor Lagoon is now closed until the next season starts in mid-June. Committee members have responsibility for policing the lagoon to stop unauthorised fishingand uses, such as canoeing, jet skis and by sailboards. Under 16s, pensioners and disabled people who want to know more about joining the Angling Club should ring John Wagner on 873013 or Doug Robinson on 881238. The Annual General Meeting for club members takes place on Tuesday 8 May, 7.30p.m., at Greendown School.
Motorcross family from ToothiU A family fromToothill is mad about riding motorbikes but not the ordinary kind. The Greenwood's from OakhamClose are committed to motorcross, with three of them riding in competitions and two thinking about it. Steve Greenwood, or "Griz" to his friends because of the bushy beard he used to have, started riding motorcross about ten years ago. As a member of the Cirencester Club he's progressed up to the 500cc Experts Class in the Amateur Motorcross Association. He admits that at 36 he's getting a bit long in the tooth for competition, but as he's able to keep up with the leaders he's going to keep going. Both of his sons,Tristian, 10, and Simon, 7, started to compete a few weeks ago. "I bought a Honda 50cc with automatic gears about four years ago and they've learnt on that," said Steve. "They ride for the
Mid-Wilts Schoolboys Club, Tristian in the Inter 80cc class and Simon in the 50cc Juniors and have been in two competitions. "They're both really keen. Simon had a bit of a crash last week when he came over a rise and didn't see another rider who had fallen. But he picked up the bike and was off again. Now Sharlene who's three wants to learn. I was going to sell the Honda, but then she started to pat it and say "my bike." So it won't be long till she's riding." Mum Jeanette is beginning to feel a bit left out. "I often think I'd like to have a bike and compete. The races are mixed and we spend most weekends at a meeting; it's exciting. "We're keen to see the boys doing well in the future. Their classmates don't believe that they ride real bikes, so the photograph in The Link should convince them."
The Greenwood line-up, Steve on the left, Tristian, Simon, SharleneandJeanetfe
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Followinga letteraboutAsda published in last month's Link, Laurence Baguena, Temporary Manager, invited a group of local residents to a meeting at the store during April. Elizabeth Wood went along for us. I asked Julia Collard of Westlea, the main instigator of the letter, what she hoped the meeting would achieve. "The complaints about the supermarket go back a long way its not just ASDA's fault. West Swindon people have to shop here and it has got worse with every takeover. With ASDA things have reached a new low and I think its time we got a better deal," she said. The amount of anger the new store has generated was forcibly brought to us while we waited for Mr Baguena to arrive. Mrs Burke of Freshbrook was involved in a furious argument with one of the assistant managers. Mrs Burke said later, "It was eleven o'clock in the morning and there was no fresh milk in the store, I've been a regular shopper here for the last five years and I didn't things could get any worse, but since ASDA took over so many items I used to buy are now unavailable that I am having to do my shopping elsewhere. The manager I spoke to took my phone number but he has never got back to me. I don't think they care." When the meeting got underway Mr Baguena explained that he had only been in the store for two weeks but he hoped to be able to answer
Childcare Project Co-Ordinator In these days of demographic changes, childcare issues are of prime importance to all involved in the job market. We now seek to appoint a Co-Ordinator to undertake a short term project researching the various initiatives and implications of childcare provision in the Swindon area. Funded by the Institute of Personnel Management, the project will commence in May/June 1990 and be of approximately 3 months duration. The ideal person for this important position will be self-motivated, have excellent communication skills and proven ability to research and compile information in report format. Current knowledge or experience of child care provision is essential. Hours of work will be to suit the individual, who will be home based but mobile. Office support can be provided if necessary. Please send letters of application to Andy Goodhead 119 Helmsdale Greenmeadow, Swindon
"This ASDA Get Better" our questions and deal with complaints. Mrs Collard began by listing the problems that had led her to write to store - lack of staff, length of queues, empty spaces on the shelves, no consistency of stock and a generally bad atmosphere. "We need to use this place as our corner shop as well as a supermarket. This is our town centre. At the moment all you get for shopping here is raised blood pressure. With Sainsbury's opening down the road in few months you haven't got long to get things right." Mr Baguena agreed that staff shortages had been a problem. "The staff rotas were the first thing I looked at. We are recruiting as fast we can. ASDA place a strong emphasis on staff training. Every new member of staff gets one day of induction training followed by a full month of basic training in their department. We will also be starting a programme of retraining for existing staff." Mr Baguena outlined the new ordering and stock systems that were being introduced and spoke of some of the problems that the rapid takeover from Gateway had caused. "Once ASDA philosophy is put into this store things will get better. This won't happen overnight, the store is a big animal. All the fixtures need remerchandising. Once the systems are up and running we will start changing the layout - possibly in July or August." Mr Baguena was asked about the trolley system. He said that ASDA has its own system of trolley maintenance. He also commented that he was unhappy with 20p deposit and was hoping to change that in the near future. On the subject of queues at tills and service counters Mr Baguena said "We have a system to measure the length on queues. What we are aiming for is one being served and no more that two waiting at each checkout. The departmental managers are monitoring this and will be reporting any problems to me. The senior managers meet every week and briefing goes right down the line. We have also introduced a system of appraisal for all staff and management and pay awards will be linked to performance." Complaints were made about delivery lorries parked on the outer road and the subsequent danger
for children and other pedestrians. Mr Baguena promised to look at the system of warehouse scheduling to improve this. Another customer wanted to know whether ASDA would be introducing an in-store bakery. Mr Baguena said that is was ASDA policy to have a bakery in every store. "It is a great pity that Gateway removed the bakery. It will cost over £100,000 just to replace the ovens and no decision has been taken yet." he said. Other comments included the dangerous shell-stacking in parts of the store, the over use of the tannoy for staff messages, and prices of some items, notably meat. Mr Baguena made notes of all complaints and promised to look into them. He said "There is nothing in this store that can't be put right. Now ASDA is here we've got to get these new systems in and then you will see benefits. We have to reeducate staff. We believe in providing quality at a fair price. I welcome any opportunity to discuss problems with customers. The old system of logging complaints has to change. We should deal with problems then and there." We also spoke to Jo Towers, NonFood Manager who has worked at the store since the days of Carrefour. She commented "Although ASDA haven'tbeen here long l can already see that improvements are on the way. Their attitude to staff is much better, and individual managers have much more responsibility for their departments. If you have a complaint you should no longer be fobbed off with excuses, its up to us to put things right for you." Mr Baguena ended the meeting by asking for patience. "It was a big job to take over 60 stores and mistakes were made which haven't helped people's confidence in ASDA. We are not yet displaying our full range of products, but I hope that as you shop here weekby week you will notice an improvement." he said. He also suggested that regular meetings with customers would be a good idea. The seven women who were present all felt that it would be helpful to keep monitoring the situation and meet again in two months' time. After the meeting Mrs Collard commented "I was pleased. I thought he listened quite well. I came away with the feeling that things will improve but it will take time." Mr Baguena said "1 felt the meeting was a very good two-way exchange of information. I learnt a lot about the problems you've had here over the last few years. There was a lot of very constructive criticism. We have made promises about the future and now we have to do the work."
13
FOR WOMEN Third Under 5's Festival set to guarantee fun West Swindon's annual festival for parents and pre-school children takes place in June. If the previous two years are anything to go by, the month will be really exciting for children and good fun for parents. There's going to be a disco, an events day at the Link Centre, a Teddy Bears picnic and much more. The festival is organised by the West Swindon Under 5's Forum, a group of people interested in bringing together people involved with under fives, whether they are parents or those working with preschool children. The members of the forum are always interested in meeting parents who would like to take part in their discussions and help with organising different parts of the festival. The next meetings take place in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, 8p.m. on Mondays 14 May and 4 June. Precise details of venues and times will be published in The Link next month.
Dance the night away Rosemary Watson describes the scene at a mid-summers ball Well, it may not seem like it, but in Carriages At Three the Summer Season has arrived. During May, June and July there will be Balls for Charities, Political Parties, Forces, Schools and Colleges and Companies. From mid-April onwards the showroom is very full with ladies (and gentlemen) looking for something wonderful to wear to impress the Boss! Commanding Officer/MP, etc. Well, why not? It is a nice way to spend a long summer evening especially if the Ball in question happens to be at one of our local Manor Houses. Both Avebury Manor and Littlecote House are the often the venue for such occasions. I shall certainly be going to the Save the Children Charity Ball at Littlecote on 23 June. Shall I set the scene for you? Arrive 7.30pm for drinks in the rose garden - dinner is served at 9pm after dancing to live band. A wandering magician visits each table to astound you with his sleight of hand; there's a hot air balloon in the garden to take you for a short trip, an auctioneer to divest you of your money for the many and varied items donated for charity, and there's a train ride around the estate at midnight! Breakfast is served at 130am and then thedisco takes over until 300am. Sounds wonderful doesn't it? Mid-summers night seemsa long way off but I've already taken bookings for that weekend, both ballgowns and dinner suits. There
Thinking of returning to study, training or employment? Local course. A short course will be held in June at the Link Centre forwomen from West Swindon who are consideringreturning to employment, training or study after a break, but don't know where to start. The course, called Women Making Choices, is a collaborative venture between the Adult Guidance Unit and the Community Development Team at the Link Centre. It will be a free course, held over six mornings in June with afree creche. Course tutor Helen Brown comments, 'Tor several months I have been available at the Link Centre on Tuesday mornings to deal with enquiries from the public about education, training and employment. It is obvious
Pause We are a friendly group of women who meet together for demonstrations, activities and informal discussions. We have a free creche at every meeting where children are supervised by Swindon Childcarers. We welcome new faces.
Come and join us Friday 11 May Informal get together and group fundraising Bring and Buy sale. Friday 18 May Reflexology demonstration. This is a form of alternative medicine whereby ailments are treated through massaging the feet. Friday 28 May Informal get together and group fundraising Bring and Buy sale. All meetings are held in Toothill Community Centre, 10a.m. to 12 noon. A nominal charge of 50p is made to cover the cost of refreshments and hiring the hail. We would be very grateful for small donations to the group Bring and Buy sales. are four balls in the Swindon area on that same weekend - it pays to think ahead!
that in West Swindon there are a number of women with young families who are wondering about taking those first steps back into employment, but feel rather overwhelmed and unsure what to do and how to go about it. This course is for them." For further details about the Women Making Choices course, ring Helen Brown at the Adult Guidance Unit on 618866, or Martha Parry in the Community Suite at the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234.
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The White Horse Pacified Love it or hate it Julie Uvesey's larger than life concrete and steel sculpture in Shaw can't fail to get people talking about public art, which confirms one of the points she made when we interviewed her in February 1988. As part of our challenge Dave Evans, a Landscape Architect from Thamesdown Council, Robert Cox and Rachel Martin, both of Shaw, take another look at the White Horse Dave Evans:
The White Horse Pacified was created from steel box sections manufactured by Tristar Engineering based within the old Great Western Railway Works. These steel sections were then assembled on site under the watchful eye of the artist. Once the elaborate framework was erected, a special concrete known as 'gunite' was then sprayed on certain sections.
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The sculpture stands within an area of public open space set in what is believed to be an old clay pit, which is to be developed during this summer. Initial reaction to the White Horse is how large it is. It stands some 5 metres high and towers above you. The steel sections are painted dark grey with flashes of red paint, the purpose of which is not obvious to me. The white sections of concrete appear to symbolise the shapes of chalk which are carved into the Chalk Downs to form the neolithic Uffington White Horse. On the back of the horse is a silhouette of a rider; perhaps this symbolises the pacification of the wild spirit of the White Horse? Discussions with other people vary as to what the sculpture is. Some instantly recognise it as a horse whilst others see it as something totally different. Abstract art in this form often has this effect on the viewer and will no doubt provoke discussion and thought whether positive or negative for quite some time to come.
4TA S T I HULL TRUCK PRODUCTIONS Present
Written & Directed by JOHN GOOBER
'Tuesday 22nd. Saturday 26th May. Weekdays 7.3Opm, Sat 8pm. Sat Mat 430pm at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon Tickets: Tues-Thurs £7.50, £6.50. Fri/Sat £8.50, £7.50 Matinee £4.50 Concs. £1.50 off (including members of The Ski Club of Great Britain). This show is not recommended for children under 15.
\1
\QqazIne (
äblIi% Sculpture Following publication in February of an Arts Council report on public sculpture around Britain, The Link magazine Issued a challenge to residents to express their views on the four pieces of art to be found in our area. Readers who would like to take part should ring the Editor on 872282. Letters of comment are welcomed.
The sculptor and her work, circa. 1988 Rachel Martin lives in Shaw and works at Allied Dunbar:
Before knowing the name of it I wasn't quite sure what this 'out of the way' sculpture was all about, but comparing this horse with chalk white horses around this region was quite helpful. Those horses are flat images, frozen in a gallop or trot. This horse is three dimensional, with more of a feeling of movement in it. With its more curved lines it has the appearance that it could flick its tail and move onto another patch of grass at any moment. The chalk horses never look like they would stop and graze,
and even less like they would enjoy a rider- like the now pacified horse. As I did a course at art college, I can glean something of what the sculptor was trying to say, but as a West Swindon resident I think it does little for the community at large. I don't know anyone who likes it (including me!) and it is generally rather meaningless. Maybe if there was a plaque and an explanation it might be a help, but as it is, most of us are left to wonder what these dowdy bits of metal and concrete are trying to say.
Robert Cox from Shaw works at the Bible Society in Westlea:
Some grass and a stroke from Robert and Rachel
Julie Livesy has caught the quietness of the giant white horse as it grazes, the powerful sweep of the mane, the nervous power in the hind legs - ready to spring the unsure animal away from any danger that threatens. When she came to Swindon I enjoyed reading in the Link of her involvement in the local community such as the workshops she ran. The sculpture sounded promising. When I first saw the finished product though, from Shaw Road travelling towards Cartwright Drive it looked neither an attractive collection of shapes norlikea horse. Iwas disappointed. Looking at it afresh, with my back to Mead Way, I can enjoy it. But the residents of Shaw view of it - from behind and above - is unflattering and does not do justice to this powerful sculpture.
Currently only motorists speeding towards Sparcells and a few office workers can see it to advantage. Webenefitted fmmJulie's time with us: can her sculpture not be moved so that we can enjoy that as well?
15
ARTS SCENE What's On at Link Arts This month's exhibition in the studio foyer is entitled Last of the Herds and concerns itself with the elephant as an endangered species. The work of artist Graham High, consisting of paintings, drawings and sculptures will be on display. On the music front, we have a number of events to suit various tastes. Rock takes the stage on Friday 4th and Saturday 19th courtesy of Swindon Rock Front. Swindon Jazz Front present Jazzfunction on Friday 18th at 800p.m. Tickets are £3.00, £2.00 members and £1.00 concessions. Country fans are in for a treat at The Isla Grant and Allon Young Show on Saturday 5th at 8.00p.m. Formerly known as Dixie and Allon, this top-quality act from Scotland will be accompanied by The Tarragon Band. Tickets are on sale now, from £2.50 to £4.00. Film buffs can see two excellent movies this month: Dangerous
Link Arts administrator Ciarry Bean gives s In store during May a run down on what'
Liaisons (15) an incisive study of sexual politics of the French prerevolutionary upper classes, stars Glenn Close and Michelle Pfeiffer, and plays on Thursday 10th. Two weeks later (24th) we are screening The Accused (18), a harrowing tale of gang-rape and a woman's fight to convict the men who stood by and encouraged the crime. Jodie Foster and Kelly McGillis are superb as the victim and her lawyer. Both films start at 7.45p.m. Admission costs £2.00/C1.50 concessions, with an additional film society membership fee of £1.00. The theme of rape is tackled in a different way by our drama presentation Philomel, which takes as its subject the topical issue of rape within marriage. The play's central focus is on two sisters and their fluctuating relationship, with a wider exploration of domestic violence and the experience and
Mural to brighten things up A mural is being prepared which mural will be a surprise for adults will brighten up a corridor in the and children alike." Before starting work, the five Link Centre. A group of third year students at students visited the site where their GreendownSchool is working with mural will be mounted and were professional muralist Atlanta Duffy given a slide show and whistle stop on a seascape mural which has a mini-bus tour of Swindon's murals distinct Impressionist style. Link by Link Arts coordinator Mel Jones. An exhibition of how the mural Centre Community Activities Officer Martha Parry said that the was made will be mounted in the twenty feet by four feet panel will Link Arts studio when it is unveiled be mounted at a low level along a in June. The exhibition will then be corridor wall in the Community put on display in Southampton in Suite. "It will be an interesting an 'Arts Work Festival.' The mural project is being scene for the l,000 people who use the corridor every week. Tucked sponsored by British Telecom with around a corner at a low level, the support from Television South. Muralists from left to right, Martha Parry, Michelle Hughes, Neil Tracy, Bryn Standrin, Sharon Deacon, Dawn Joyce, Atlanta Duffy, Nichola Eggleton
knowledge of abused women as the overall theme. Entertaining moving and heart felt. Friday 11th at 8.00p.m. Tickets: £4/C3. Finally, our children's event this month is Fitter Patter, a fun-filled bonanza of group participation, lively verse, comic patter and storytelling, word games and rapping. An hour-long extravaganza presented by Simon Pitt and suitable for 6-11 year olds. Tickets are £2.25, and the show is on Saturday 12th at 2.30p.m. For further details on all the above events contact Link Arts, Link Centre on 871212. Tickets are on sale at Link Centre and Town Hall Studios, Regent Circus (Tel: 611181).
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Last month's article was entitled 'New Books and a New Writer' well this month's it's 'New Faces' - my own! Looking back through past Link articles I note that Jacquelyn our Assistant Librarian was fortunate to have Linda introduce her, alas I will have to be my own scribe. Due to Linda's departure I have taken up her position whilst the vacancy is advertised and a permanent librarian appointed. I am delighted to have the opportunity to work in this new and exciting community; West Swindon Library is an entirely different experience for me, despite my varied career. I was born on the Wirral where I spent the first 18 years of my life. I loved books as a child and was a frequent visitor to the local library apart from a brief spell when I kept a book very overdue, incurred a rather large fine and was too frightened to take it back!! From this it only seemed natural that Librarianship be my chosen career- although at that stage I hadn't realized an ability to get on with people as well as books was a requisite for the job. The early years of my career were spent as library assistant and branch librarian in various libraries with Wirral Borough Council and 3 years at Leeds Polytechnic gaining professional examinations. My husband's departmental move to Swindon in 1984 meant that my career continued in Wiltshire. I was fortunate to gain the position as Librarian at Highworth, a post I thoroughly enjoyed because of the dose community feeling in this rural town. However scope was limited and I took up the combined post of Wroughton and Chiseldon in July 1985. By September l987l was on the move again when I became Group Librarian for Swindon's urban branch libraries south of the railway line. This position demanded a lot of work behind the scenes so in many respects I welcome being back in the public eye at West Swindon. Sadly this month we are saying goodbye to our full time assistant Stephen McEntee who is leaving for pastures anew. He joined the West Swindon team last August and has been an invaluable asset to the library contributing enormously to artwork and displays besides being a cheerful, helpful and hardworking colleague. He is staying with the world of books in his new job at Sherratt and Hughes Bookshops. We wish him every success for the future. Our Exhibition for May is a display of paintings by local adult students from Swindon College. This type of artwork always proves very popular with viewers - the paintings will be on display from 2 to 23 May. We hope all our younger readers had the opportunity to enter our Easter colour-in competition. Prizewinners shall be announced in next months edition.
With Carolyn in the book den, Sarah Newcombe from Grange Park, left,and Julie Simpkins from Toothill A Selection of New Books for May Bell, Pamela - the Herald of Joy Second in the Wintercombe trilogy by a local author. An historical novel set around the accession of Charles II and the Battle of Worcester. The setting for this love story is the manor at Great Chalfield, near Melksham. Howard, Audrey-The Mallow Years This author has become immensely popular in the last five years and in 1988 she was awarded Boots Romantic Novel. Her writing is in the same genre as that of Catherine Cookson. The Lancashire Mills provide the backdrop for this story of love and triumph. Kent, Alexander - The Only Victor A new adventure in the Richard Bolitho series. Bolitho must be the most popular hero in current naval historical fiction. This book is well characterised and researched in detail. The period is 1806 and Bolitho has been sent to recapture Cape Town from the Dutch. Koontz, Dean R. - The Bad Place In the traditional Koontz style, 'The Bad Place' waves a plot of torture and revenge. Why does Frank Pollard wake up from his sleep with bloodstained hands and discover strange objects in his pockets much more frightening than blood? A security investigation ensues resulting in events much more frightening than death. Masterson, Graham - Empress Based on true story, this rags-to-riches saga encompasses all the essential ingredients - poverty, inheritance, childhood sweethearts and a set starting in Kansas, passing through England and ending in India in the days of the Raj. Mortimer, John - Titmus Regained The author embarks upon a topical theme in his latest novel, the protection of green countryside against the developer. However, in the true Mortimer vein the quirk is that this time the bulldozers are advancing upon the garden of Leslie Titmus, Secretary of State for Ministry of Housing, Ecological Affairs & Planning (HEAP).
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In the second part of his review, Link Centre Co-Ordinator John Fisher looks back over the 5 years since the centre opened
1
So after all the years of planning, weeks of preparation and days of panic Link Centre was finally open or at least the Ice Rink was. During the first few weeks every night was party night with 800-1,000 skaters on the ice for every session. The remainder of the building was not scheduled to open until July and so we at last had a little time to take stock and make a few more permanent plans for the future. It was fascinating to watch people's reactions to the centre when they first came in. Many were apprehensive and slightly intimidated by the sheer size and look of the place (more of
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that later) and the difficulty most people had finding the way in did not help matters. Bearing in mind that only the ice rink was open the only public entrance was on the ice rink side but most people only managed to find the swimmingpoolrampentry or the library entrance first! We just got everybody trained when we opened the rest of the building and confusion reigned again. Even now, 5 years on, it is still a problem but recently we have abandoned using the old peak time entry to the rink and now only the pool and library entrances are in use. As I mentioned earlier the design of the building was perhaps the most contentious issue. It was described as a 'Piece of Discarded Chewing Gum' and as 'Finished Apart from the Scaffolding' and others too rude to mention here. The reality is that the architects had to achieve two things, firstly a massive space not cluttered by columns or supporting walls (try skating around steel girders), and secondly a fast building programme to get maximum benefit from a fixed project price and raging inflation. The concept was to construct a 'factory' in which the centre could be built in all weathers and with the greatest possible flexibility. In fact the shell was completed before some of the detailed
design work was finished, thus saving more time and money. It's a bit like a circus top completely supported from the outside to give the biggest possible usable space inside. Like or loathe it, it is a successful design and we are still able to modify certain areas like the Community Suite and rink entrance without running into massive structural problems. In hindsight I think the air conditioning equipment on the roof could have been better camouflaged and protected from the elements but at least it is easy to describe it to strangers over the telephone. I heard one of our staff describing it as a 'Part filled Gasometer'. It should also be remembered that 5 years ago Link Centre was, and for that matter still is, one of the most complex and sophisticated Leisure Centres ever built. The high levels of new technology and advanced materials have made life at the same time both easier and more difficult. For example, the heat generated by the compressors that help make the ice, (try feeling the back of your fridge carefully!), is used to pre-heat the water in the swimming pool with an estimated annual fuel saving of £60,000. On the other hand it was difficult under some weather conditions to maintain a comfortable tern-
peraturein the pool and so additional equipment had to be installed. The use of computers to control all the plant equipment is a big bonus except after a power failure when it causes chaos. (Wet ice, freezing pool etc). Another area of concern is the wear and tear on the fixtures and fittings after 5 years and in excess of 5 million customers. We are currently embarking on a re-decoration and upgrading programme throughout the building, but it's a bit like painting the Forth Bridge. The carpet in particular has suffered from the amount of mud carried in from the unfinished areas around the campus but the compleomple tion of the Health Centre Site and the tarmacing of the North Car Park will help. The No Smoking Policy was controversial at the time but at least the carpet isn't pock marked with burns. It is curious how in just five years people's attitude to smoking has changed so dramatically with most customers now expecting it to be a no smoking building in line with our Lifestyle campaigns. The pattern of use and the demand for new and different activities has also changed considerably throughout our short history but more of that in the final part next month. Finally, hands up all of you who five years ago said "1 really must have a go at skating" BUT still have not been! Shame on you its never too late so make a special point of visiting the rink during the next five years! Look out for part 3 next month. -
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Hot times ahead with Mr Ice LINK
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"RHAPSODY on ICE" Sunday 6th May A spectacular and breath-taking display of the new Olympic sport Precision Skating performed by a Canadian troupe of 18 skaters. Rhapsody on Ice will include various show numbers which have been performed throughout their worldwide tour. Special Performances by Link Centre's top skaters. Performance starts 6.00p.m. (Doors open 530p.m.) Ticket Prices: Adults £1.50; Conc. £1.00 For Details Tel: (0793) 871212
The Link Centre ice rink programme was relaunched on Good Friday with new lighting, smoke machine and a booming new sound system. Responsible for getting things organised for the new look attractions is 'Mr Ice' or Howard Taylor, the Entertainment Manager and resident rink DJ (right). He's been brought in to breath new life into the ice skating scene. Howard joined the Link Centre in January with a varied background. For straight jobs, he was once a policeman and also a telephone engineer. However it was his other credentials which qualified him to be a Borough Council officer at the Centre. Most recently he returned from touring Europe with the cult musical 'The Rocky Horror Show' where he was company manager and an understudy. He has been with the show on and off for the last seven years and in the meantime he has worked as a DJ for radio stations and in nightclubs in the USA and this country. For three years he taught at a Circus School in florida teaching youngsters trick rollerskating, juggling, the flying trapeze, high wire balancing and clowning. At the Link Centre Howard has been responsible for revamping the
ice skating sessions and using his radio skills to prepare music for specific sessions disco for youngsters in the evening, easy listening during the day. He's also been devising attractions to give each session its own identity (attend a skate session and find out!). Howard says he's pleased to be based at a centre like the Link. Having moved around different jobs, he's now able to put down roots and see his workdevelop from earlyideas through to reality. Once the new ice rink sessions have become established, he will be looking to other parts of the Centre to see if his background could be put to good use. -
Litter -the shops are trying!
GREEN TENDENCIES
Recent articles on street cleaning in January's Link, letters in February's edition and the Government's proposed regulations on litter in the Environmental Protection Bill have all highlighted the awful state that residents in England leave their locality. It's all very well seeing the Prime MinisterbustlingaroundStJames's Park, London pickingup littercarefully deposited for the TV cameras, but how is it possible to persuade people not just to dump wrappings, packets and cans in public places. Prosecutions for dropping litter are almost unknown except in Cumbria where there were over 100 successful ones last year - most of the guilty thought that the police had better things to do! The proposed law will allow members of the public to take local authorities to court for not keeping their areas clean and allows Councils new right to order landowners to clear up their patch. The penalty for dropping litter is to be raised to ÂŁ1,000, with spot fines of ÂŁ10 being introduced. Councillor Bob Pixton has carried on a campaign over several years to clean up parts of the area, including spending Saturdays fill-
Philip Jones - pointing out a litter bin
ing plastic bags with rubbish in the worst areas. Recently he went down to FreshbrookVfflage Centre to interview Phillip Jones the manager of the JCR general store. Bob Well Philip here we are at the rear of your store looking into the hedgerows, what sort of litter is visible? Philip Plainly some of it is sweet wrappers, crisps packets and drink packets that have been thrown down by residents. Other pieces are plastic wrappingand cardboard boxes that could have been blown out of our skip at the back of the shop.
Bob The Council has improved its performance in cleaning up the front of the store daily, including Sunday, cleaning and providing more litter bins, but what else can be done in your opinion? Philip The shop itself has provided extra litter bins at the front of the store and we have our skip at the rear, emptied three times a week. We have looked at buying a compositor to compress our rubbish but we probably don't produce enough to make it worth while. We have altered the style of skip but any that is 'open' to allow staff to put rubbish in, is also 'open' for rubbish to be blown about. Bob What improvements do you think are possible for the future? Philip Certainly when the Government's regulations come into force a fine of ÂŁ1,000 is proposed - this will stop people from dropping litter in the presence of a policeman! And the public will have a right to get the Council to clean up areas - this will be extremely costly. For our part the JCR chain is looking at new contracts with cleaning firms to see if more of the rubbish we produce can be disposed of in a better way rather than some of it being wind blown around the area.
Re-cycle your Waste Paper tet break a record1 Saturday 19 May gam -4pm & Sunday 20 May 9am- 12pm Toothill Village Centre (rear car park on Stokesay Drive) IMPORTANT: Please remove envelopes, plastic bags and cardboard from paper to be re-cycled. Martin Becker and Brendan Cracknell of the West Swindon Animal Protection & Environmental Society collected 3.16 tons when they manned the skip in March, thanks to Link readers. This time they're looking for more. Have you been saving for them?
Lace - A rare chance to buy something of quality It seems that there are parties held for most things nowadays, kitchen containers, toys, perfumes, clothes, but here's a chance to invite friends and neighbours to a totally unique party. Why unique? Because very few people do them and also some of the items for sale won't be available in a few years? John and Pru Hardie from Highworth (pictured right) have had along association with lace. John's was born and bred near Nottingham where most lace was made in the past and his mother runs a seaside souvenir and gift shop selling it. Pm was christened in a family heirloom made in the 1600's. Although they didn't have much to do with lace until a few years ago, John and Pm now run the only lace party plan business in Britain and have an enormous knowledge about the history of lace and the way it is made. Over the last eight years most of their time has been taken up with running parties on American military bases locally and in East Anglia, and supporting their sales ladies. But with the reduction of military personnel in the country, they are looking to develop the
home market and are looking for another sales person in the Swindon area. "The Americans love the lace we sell mainly because they want to take home something genuinely British," said John. "They often buy lace because their mothers and grandmothers have pieces going back many years." The Hardie's sell Nottingham lace in a wide 'I price range from small pieces for furniture and dolls clothing, to large bed spreads made from highly complex patterns designed in the 18th Century which will become heirlooms. John believes that parties in the home or a community organisation are ideal for selling lace. "You just don't see good displays of lace in shops any longer, unless you go to Harrods or Selfridges. You can't get a good idea of what you're
buying from a picture on a plastic bag. In the old days you'd go to a drapers shop and receive individual attention from the shopkeeper who would display a wide range of lace of different quality. You have touch it to get a feel for the way they are made before you can make a decision." According to John whilst there is an increasing interest in British lace from all over the world, the traditional methods of producing it are disappearing. "The old Nottingham Cluny lace, the type with the raised areas of interwoven thread, is now produced on two machines which are ninety years old. And there are only two operators, or twist hands, with the skills to use the machines. They're close to retirement and once they give up traditional lace wilbe gone. Some of the new computerised production methods produce good
quality lace, but it doesn't have the same body or texture." Anybody booking a party with The Lace Place receives a commission in lace. John and Pm Hardie also take bookings from ladies groups at which they give a talk about the fascinating history of lace with displays of very old pieces. They pay a commission in cash to the group's funds. As their daughter is a keen ice hockey player, they are sponsoring some of the games played by the Swindon Topcats ladies team, and passing on commission donated to the team by party givers. The Hardie's are looking for a salesperson to work in the Swindon area. A pleasant personality, a willingness to learn about lace and a car is required, but there is no financial outlay. A kit is supplied with samples of sizes and patterns. Most goods are purchased on a cash with order basis, but a supply of dressed dolls made by John Hardie's sister is available for sale at the party. To book what will turn out to be a very interesting party, orto apply tobe a Lace Place salesperson, telephone John or Pru Hardie on 762143.
EDUCATION Some parents may not have noticed much difference yet, but primary school pupils are just launching into their third term of grappling with the national curriculum In English, maths and science. We visited three West Swindon primary that reading, writing, maths is what schools to get an idea of how parents should expect from schools when in fact it has been the basis of they are doing. educating children for a long, long time. Coming at a time when schools "But it has made the teaching have been bombarded with change profession reconsider what we on all fronts, there is general ap- teach and how we teach it. The proval, in principle, for the national introduction of new subjects like curriculum. At the same time, there science and changes in teaching is a great deal of irritation amongst practices are stretching both the teachers that somehow the busi- pupil and the teacher. All the subness of teaching children and the jects are still taught within a topic process of learning has just been in- based approach. For example, vented because the government of every class has been usingthe tenth the day has introduced a frame- anniversary of the school in projects, and this has brought forth work for education. The recent publication ofa bright, writing, language, maths and sciwell illustrated leaflet explaining ence work." The requirement to teach science the national curriculum at primary level to parents by the National from the earliest days in schools Curriculum Council is seen as giv- and later this year technology have ing this impression, not for what it presented teachers with the biggest changes and challenge. tries to say, but how it says it. Trish Toogood, head teacher at Whereas science has tended to be Toothill School, says there is an rather piecemeal in its delivery in impression that the national cur- the past, the requirement of the riculum requirements are new to national curriculum forevery child schools. "The national curriculum to reach 'attainment targets' means does not introduce anything which that it is no longer left to chance. goes against oureducation philoso"There's a great deal more conphy. Ninety per cent of what is tent and teachers have had to grasp expected is what you would al- a lot of complex information in a ready see in good primary schools. short time," said Mrs Williams. Mrs Anne Williams, presently "This has meant teachers taking the longest serving headteacher in courses to increase their knowledge West Swindon at the ten year old and to develop their confidence to Oliver Tomkins Infants School, deal with subjects they might not agrees with this view. "Much of have had contact with in the past." what we've been doing under the The introduction of science also National Curriculum for the last has great implications on young two terms is what we're been doing pupils and on school funds accordfor years. It's irritating to be told ing to Mrs Toogood. "The national
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Studying sounds in science Toothill School pupils Alistair Gatrill, HaileyKing and Rachel Montier have been studying the variety of ways sounds are made for the science attainment target. Below, they are pictured writing poems on the how musical sounds are created.
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most of Curriculum curriculum doesn't recognise that not all infants are equal. Older children in a year group who arrive at school in September have covered a lot more ground compared with those who enter at Easter. "The resources we need are large as well. For a school this size we need a minimum of ÂŁ5,000 to cater for 18 classes. We don't have anything like that available. The local authority have made a one-off contribution, but it means that the rest comes out of school fund, fundraisingevents and moststaff bring in equipment, glue guns, torch bulbs, shaper saws and parents are being asked to save boxes, toilet rolls and any bits of material which may come in handy." At Shaw's Brookfield School headteacher Peter Woodcock is conscious of the speed with which the national curriculum has been introduced and the unrealistic timescale being demanded. "Most of the general principles held within the national curriculum fit with our approach. I'm happy about the English, Maths and Science requirements, but it's worrying that too much is being asked for, too quickly. To maintain quality you need time to work with children. There's a danger that with too many attainment targets, teachers won't be able to make sure that children have sufficient time to consolidate their knowledge. I hope experience will allow flexibility in how the national curriculum develops so as not to overload children or teachers." Mr Woodcock is also concerned
that the cultural shift away from arts subjects could limit the development of children. "There is a danger that arts, music and drama will be regarded as less important by parents. A good primary education should encompass the widest curriculum to allow the child to develop his or her potential. It's also crucial to build relationships between the child, the teacher and the parent. At this level school is about developing the child socially alongside promoting academic achievement." Alltheheadteachers stressed that although primary schools in West Swindon are under some strain in making adjustments to the demands of the national curriculum, all have organised their work load and have established what attainment targets their pupils are working towards. However the testing of children has been lurking in the background ever since the national curriculum was proposed with very little idea of what the tests might look like. The announcement at Easter by the Secretary of State forEducation that the Government didn't want teachers to spend all their time involved with testing has been welcomed as a bit of sense entering the system. Now seven year-olds will be assessed in English, Maths and Science and not the eleven subjects originally envisaged. Education ministers have recently been triying to calm teachers' fears. "Do not try to do everything at once," they said. When you don't know what 'everything' involves and you don't have a great of influence over what is being demanded of you, that's easier said than done. But teachers might be regaining more of a 'say again about how children are educated.
Building bonds between pupil and teacher Brookfield School teacher Fiona Mead shares a book with Harpreet Gill whilst other children try out their ideas for a puppet show in the background. Reading aloud develops an enjoyment of books, language and communication skills, and contact between child and adult.
Technology came to the forefront at Greendown School at the end of last term when two year groups had a chance to show off their achievements. The first years had spent a six week module studying levers and propulsion ending in a competition to see if the machines they had bulitcould accurately shoota pingpong ball into a toy castle. The second year spent a Design Technology module studying gears and applying what they learnt to working machines which had to be displayed at a Toy Fair for parents and visitors to the school. Each student prepared a brochure with information and decorated a stand to 'sell' their machine. The end of the fair was marked by a parade of moving toys which were judged by representatives of Redman Engineering of Swindon. A helicopter created by Andrew Blackford was chosen as the most effective piece of work because he had used gears in two plains to
power the wheels and the helicopter blades. As an incentive when the work module started, the students were told that the company would redesign the winning entry on their computer system and then produce a larger version at their factory. Winner Andrew Blackford and Michael Neal, Director of Production at Redmond Engineering, left, and Steve Onslow, Director of Engineering
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(Music, then fade...) "This is the May 1990 edition of The Link - West Swindon's Community Magazine prepared on tape by the Swindon and District Talking Newspaper." (Bring up music, then fade...) "The Link Magazine is transferred to tape with the kind permission of the publisher and editor, Roger Ogle." So will begin tonight's session in the Swindon Talking Newspaper's studio in Victoria Road. For the past year we've enjoyed the great pleasure of putting The Link on cassette tape each month for the ten or so visually handicapped people in the West Swindon area, who are also regular listeners to our weekly Swindon Newspaper tape. Last night I read through the newly arrived Link, familiarised myself with this month's contents, and decided which features and news items should be recorded - or rather, what had to be left out, since it's unfortunately impossible to include it all on a 90 minute cassette tape. Then, armed with scissors, pen, paper and a stick of glue, I 'edit' it in a suitable fashion for reading on to tape. In the meantime, though, I must spend the day at work - which isn't a hardship either, as it's an advertising agency located in an old manor house, set in beautiful grounds, out in the country to the
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Barbara Naylor from Toothill describes how those who cannot read the magazine have the chance to find out what's going on in West Swindon
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east of Swindon. There I'm part of an Accountcroup,meetingclients, perhaps talking through a brief with the creative team, checking copy and artwork, maybe sourcing marketing information on a particular type of produce, occasionally attending a photographic sesall in all, sion. Making coffee lively and not the least bit boring. I'll leave as soon as I can tonight and get up to the studio early to have everything prepared for the two readers when they arrive at 7p.m. This means recording my introduction to the May edition of the tape, cleaning the heads on the copying machines and, of course, putting the kettle on so that we can start with a cup of tea. (I don't want you to think this is a business venture - it's all entirely voluntary and we're all friends who do it because we enjoy it and have fun!). It'll be Mike and Don reading tonight and they will sit down on either side of the table in the studio, in front of the microphones, each with a pile of stories in front of him. I'll shut the door on them and move to the other side of the glass to do the engineering. I communicate with them now either by waving, or more professionally, by use of the headphones. Mike and Don are old hands at this recording business and I expect we'll have it all on the master tape before 9 o'clock. Then we'll take copies of the master. We have a bank of fast copiers which can copy both sides of a tape at the same time in about four minutes flat! We'll give each one a quick check and them leave them ready for sending out in postal wallets, providing our West Swindon listeners with the independent means of keeping abreast of all the
the controls things that are going on in our own part of Swindon. These wallets will be delivered post-freeby theRoyal Mail,by firstclass post. Listeners return them to the studio, again post-free, where the tapes are wiped clean ready for the next edition. If you know of any blind or visually handicapped person who would like this, entirely free, service (or who would like to join the 170+ who regularly receive our weekly Swindon Talking Newspaper), please do not hesitate to let us know - it is our pleasure to provide it. For more information, contact Stan King on 528560 or Barbara Naylor on 495188. Editor's Note: Hearing The Link read aloud gives the stories a very different perspective. It's always enjoyable listening to the tapes and we're glad to help those helping others.
Car Boot Sale Saturday 12 May 1O.00a.m. Freshbrook School Car Park £4/ES on the day Call 872450
• Car Boot Sale Saturday 19 May Coach Park Link Centre 10.00a.m. start Proceeds to Westlea Guides £5/6 on the day Tel: 617620 to book
NEWS & VIEWS Ready for Parenthood? Is parenthood education good enough? Conference for parents and professionals at Link Centre
A conference which aims to bring parents and professionals together to talk about parenthood takes place over two days at the Link Centre on May 17 and 18. The conference is one of the first of its kind in Great Britain and has been organised as the result of research work into the levels of infant mortality in the Thamesdown area. The study was carried out by Jan Long at the Health Education Unit who discovered that ante-natal parenthood classes are not effective as they should be. A lot of parents see them as too 'medical' and not relevant to the needs of parents. "When I talked to parents during the research into infant mortality, it became clear that the Health Services were not meeting the needs for parent education," said Jan. "In many cases parentcraftclasses meet a demand which is perceived by professionals; these are often dif-
Playgroup vacancies Toothill Farm Playgroup have vacancies for morning and afternoon sessions. Please call in to see the Supervisor Cherry Hobbs or ring Chairperson Tina Lewington on 642678.
Calling all dieters If you have trouble sticking to a slimming plan Western Slimming Services may be able to help you keep to a calorie controlled diet. This method uses medication to lower your appetite and change your eating habits. A spokesman for Western Slimming Services said, "The medication has been used for years and has successfully treated thousands of patients. There is careful medical monitoring throughout the treatment by an experienced doctor." For a fee of £8 per week, clients receive private consultations with a fully qualified doctor, medication, dietary advice and individual support and counselling at each visit. You can attend weekly or monthly as your prefer, orarrangements can be made for home visits. For more information staff of Western Slimming Services are in the Small Meeting Room, Ike Gradwell Community Suite at the Link Centre every Friday from 5.30p.m. to 7.30p.m. and on Saturday from 4p.m. to 6p.m., oryou can telephone 0831 - 118907.
ferent from the needs that parents express, especially young mothers. "This conference will look at how people are prepared to become parents through schools, the information available to them and the help given by health professionals. We're saying to parents that we know there's a problem with parent education and we want their help with changing how it's offered." Sheila Kitzinger, the well known campaigner for improved parent education, will address the conference on whether we have 'A society fit for mothers?', along with others in the medical and parent care field. The afternoon sessions on both days are given over to discussions about whether the education for parenthood in Swindon is good enough. Places are still available for parents to attend the conference. Telephone Jan Long on 694660.
Pizza winners We had dozens of entries in our 'how many pizzas did Dominos Pizza sell during the first six weeks of business (until 31 March). The entries were either too high or too low. In fact, Dominos sold 7,161 during their first 6 weeks and Mrs Polpitiye of Picton Road, Middleleaze came in closest with 9,400. The Dominos birthday offer has really taken off since we mentioned it last month. Let them know and they will deliver a large cheese and tomato pizza to your child's birthday party, before 5.30p.m.,FREE of charge. They'll also donate pizzas to any community groups that are organising a special meeting or event. Give them a call on 877585. Below: G WR Radio's Hungry Howard descended upon Dominos during April to eat a few and to give out pizzas to passers-by with owner Sigud Wilberg.
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NEWS & VIEWS Easter Bonnets cause headache
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West Swindon Centre manager Lionel Dicks had the difficult job of judging the best Easter bonnets at the centre's Good Friday competition. "I don't know why I let myself in for this," he said. "All the entries are so good." All entries received a small prize and he eventually chose the following winners who received big Easter Eggs: Best decorated 1st Nicola Holt, from Toothill 2nd Laura Hillier, Nine Elms 3rd Kate Moon, Ramleaze Funniest Old Town 1St Tracy Bujas, Greenmeadow to the west 2nd Samantha Ledkin, Toothill An eight kilometre run from Swin3rd James Portsmouth, Toothill don Old Town to West Swindon Most Inventive and back takes place on Sunday 20 1st Michelle Forder, Freshbrook May. 2nd Lucy Marion, W/Bassett The run, in aid of Holy Rood 3rd Yasmin Sheikh, Westlea Junior School, starts at 1030a.m. It follows a route along the old railA Reaction to way line from Old Town to Mannnington, then parallel to the Easterti me Great Western Way through the (A poem in the April edition) Blagrove Open Space to by Baker of Toothill Freshbrook, up through Toothill Go to church and wear your best, Park, along Bodiam Drive,Toothill Don't let your mums hopes down, and back along the railway line. Entry costs £3 and forms can be Even though there's homelessness, obtained from most sports shops, And despair in our town. from race orga niser Terry Dixon on If you're good, obey 'your' rules, 874492 or the headteacher on 527679. Life will be good, you're sure. There will also be a fun run of Just never look when misery one and a half miles around the Is passing by your door. Lawns on 20 May which costs £1 to enter. Civilised, you call this, A nice way that we can live? West Swindon And anyway, who cares, when death road race with new Is waiting to forgive.
Holy Rood run
The entrants and their bonnets. Mr Dicks is hiding behind!
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Your New Calor Gas Main Dealer in Swindon Hotline: (0793) 613391 24 hour telephone ordering service Collections from our Depot at Bridgend Road Showroom at 14, The Orbit Centre Ashworth Road Great Western Way, Swindon Displays of Fixed gas fires, mobile cabinet heaters and miscellaneous Calor appliances
Anti-poll tax union formed A meeting on 3 April decided to form an Anti Poll Tax Union in West Swindon to give support to those living in the area who have decided not to pay the Poll Tax. The 50 people who attended heard from Lee English of the Swindon Anti-Poll Tax Federation who said there were a lot of myths about the Poll Tax and reminded the meeting that not paying the tax was a civil disobediance and not a criminal act. He said that a lot of people had decided not to pay for many reasons, but it was important for them to be part of an organisation which provided help and support, especially those who were least able to pay and were the most vulnerable. Telephone John Moore on 480418 to find out about the next meeting of the group.
Sunday 24 June at 11a.m. sees the start of the Swindon Roadrunners annual 10Km race from Lydiard Park, West Swindon. The race, this year principally sponsored by Intergraph who are celebrating 10 years in the UK, will have a modified course from previous years which has become necessary because of the closure and re-routing of Hay Lane. The change has also given the club an opportunity to improve the course for runners, and it hopes to gain BARR grade 11 status this year by taking more of the course along roads rather than across woodland tracks in the park. There is an extensive range of prizes on offer, including travel and sports vouchers for the category winners, tee shirts for the first 40 male and ten female runners, and commemorative mugs for all finishers. Application forms, which should be completed and returned to club secretary Sue Brown at 7 Sywell Road, Lower Stratton, by 15 June, are available from the displays at the Link and Oasis Centres, and from Total Fitness and Terry Warner Sports. The cost of entry is £3.00 for club runners and £3.50 for non-affiliated runners.
NEWS & VIEWS Building a church - literally
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* May pal? *
Toothill After-School Club
After much hard work and prayer, the Freshbrook Church congregation will soon have its own building. Although it was used for the first time at Easter, for a full immersion baptism, It won't be in regular use until after the summer. A driving force behind seeing the project through has been Rev. Bernard Welch.
Saturday 5 May, lOam - 5.30pm Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive Pony rides, May Pole Dancing, Side Shows and Stalls, Pipe Band, Cream Teas
Calling Kings & Queens
"Happy Anniversary" Jean Welch exclaimed to her husband on Sunday 18 March. "Anniversary, of what?" he asked. It was ten years to the day since Bernard Welch was rushed into hospital in the early hours of the Bernard Welch, hard at work on morning having suffered a se- Freshbrook Church vere heart attack. Recovery was slow but today he is overseeing the building of the new church at Freshbrook due to be open for regular public worship in early July. Bernard Welch was born in China, his parents having served as missionaries for twenty years. As a family they were interned in a concentration camp during the last war. He was in the same camp as Eric Liddell the Olympic runner whose early life story is portrayed in the film 'Chariots of Fire'. Prior to his heart attack Bernard had served as a minister for twenty years first at Brentwood in Essex before coming to Swindon with his wife Jean and three children in 1974. Following the heart attack a change in occupation became necessary and he worked at the Christian Bookshop in Farringdon Road. It was last September when he left the shop to oversee the new building in Freshbrook. When asked about the new church building Bernard says "All that has happened is a testimony to what God is doing. The church is not a building but the people and since 1982 God has been at work in Freshbrook raising up a company of people to worship and serveHim. Today the Church consists of people from twelve different denominational backgrounds. For the past eighteen months the Rev. Peter Grainger has served as the full time minister. The building is being paid for entirely by contributions from individuals and churches from many parts of the country. Hudson Taylor the first missionary to inland China once said: "God's work done in God's way Ak will never lack God's supply". The church at Freshbrookis proving this to be true.
The Dunwich Drive Playgroup are organising a May King & Queen Competition at the May Fair and invite playgroups and parents to enter children. Entry costs 25p and judging for the best costume takes place at 2p.m. after a parade. The winners will then tour the Fair in a horse and carriage.
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Wes Swindon's fourth Roughmoor Village Centre, the fourth local village centre to be built in the area, is in the early stage of planning. Although the centre is unlikely to be built for some time yet, consulting people who live close-by and other residents who use the existing village centres and may have an opinion on how a The Borough Council wishes to provide local shopping and community facilities within each of West Swindon's Urban Villages. Roughmoor Village Centre will serve the Peatmoor and Sparcells areas of West Swindon and will follow on from existing centres at Toothill, Freshbrook and Shaw. A 5.5 acre site has already been reserved for the Village Centre. The site is conveniently and attractively located on the north side of Peatmoor Lake, immediately to the west of the 'Chinese Experience restauraunt. On completion of housing development at Roughmoor. the Village Centrewill serve approximately 4,000 local residents. The Borough Council's aim is to provide facilities that are needed at a local level in a built form that is convenient to visitors who come by car or on foot. It is proposed to provide sites for the following uses; Shops A 'one-stop' convenience store which will provide a wide range of goods including newspapers, confectionery, food and general household products. It is hoped to persuade the Post Office to locate a sub-post office within the store. A number of smaller shops units to provide for uses such as a chemist, hairdresser, hot food 'takeaway and cafe. 'Commercial' The introduction of such uses as
a Building Society/Estate Agency and Veterinary Surgery have been welcomed at Shaw Village Centre. It is hoped to attract similar uses here. Doctor's Surgery The Borough Council has been asked to provide a site fora Surgery by the Family Practioners Committee. Public House/Restaurant It is proposed to complementthenew'Chinese Experience' with a traditional English Inn/Restaurant. Community Centre A site is reserved for a permanent Community Centre which the Borough Council currently proposes to build when financial resources permit. Reserve Site This site could be developed fora number of uses. To date, no decisions have been taken. In total, about 200 car parking spaces will be provided to serve the Village Centre and the emerging network of footpath/cycleways in Peatmoor and Sparcells will be completed to provide safe access for pedestrians and cyclists. The Borough Council wishes to follow up the success of Shaw Village Centre with a centre at Roughmoor that achieves a pleasing environment and a coherent overall design. It is thus intended to require individual developers to use high quality traditional materials and to build to a common theme. Above all, the aim is to provide an attractive focal point for community
Join in the Telethon at the sheep farm Plans are well ahead foran exciting Telethon Day at Southleaze Sheep Farm at the end of May. Farmer Stuart Bell has just added a herd of 40 goats his three flocks of sheep. This means he's working non-stop every afternoon to milk them all and visitors are welcome to watch him. He's also acquired three donkeys for the pets corner. Altogether Southleaze Farm received 3,000 visitors during March when itre-opened compared to a total of 7,500 for the whole of last season. Sheep shearing will be taking place every weekend during May and June and Stuart will arrange a shearing demonstration for any group that would like to visit during the week. Southleaze Farm has become a popular venue for birthday parties this year. Children can seethe sheep being milked, feed the lambs and then have a birthday tea at picnic tables set out in a field, or in a barn if it's raining. Sunday 27 May is the day the Telethon comes to Southleaze. Topping the attractions is lamb racing. Sheep shearing, milking and feeding will take place, and there's going to be a sponsored wool spin. There will be stalls,a giant car boot sale, a bouncy castle and refreshments.
new one should be built is part of the process of bringing the plans into reality. We asked Martin Trewhella, a Principal Planner with Thamesdown Borough Council's Town Planning Department to describe the different aspects of the proposed centre. life for everybody who will live in Roughmoor. When Will the Centre be Built? A definite date for commencing work on the Village Centre cannot be given at the moment because the Borough Council has limited finan cial resources with which to fund a wide range of important projects it wishes to see implemple mented across the Borough. However, subject mented to considering the views expressed at the Exhibition and the availability of financial resources, the Borough Council intends to proceed as quickly as possible.
YOUR VIEWS ARE INVITED As already mentioned, the Borough Council wishes to receive any comments you may care to make beforeany financial decisions are taken. Please come along to the Exhibition of the Council's proposals for Roughmoor Village Centre which is to be held at the Sparcells Community Centre on 15, 16, 17 and 18 May. Details are given opposite. A comments sheet will be available at the Exhibition or alternatively you may write direct to the Borough Planning Officer before 6 June. Martin Trewhella will be pleased to discuss the draft proposals and, hopefully, be able to ann swer any questions you may want to ask. He can be contacted on Swindon 493280.
National Pet Week 5 -13 May Veterinary surgeon Nicholas Hartley of the Thames wood Vet Clinic draws attention to the positive aspects of pet keeping.
Stuart with some of the new attractions at Southleaze Farm
Any playgroup or school wanting to hold a FREE stall or enter a car boot should call Stuart on 523134. All proceeds of the event at Southleaze Farm go to Telethon 90 with all monies raised going to good causes in the I-ITV region. It takes place between lOa.mand 4p.m. and admission is FREE. The sheep farm is open from 2.30p.m. to 5.30p.m. every day except Tuesday and Wednesday. Southleaze is located under the railway bridge next to Texas DIY at the Mannington roundabout.
Weare knownas a nation of animal lovers, but do we take our responsibility as pet owners seriously? Properly cared for, animals make happy contented pets which are a pleasure to own and can even benefit our health. National Pet Week was launched in the spring of 1989 to promote responsible pet ownership; to make people aware of the benefits of pets to people; and to increase awareness of professional services and organisations involved with pet animals. One in two homes have a pet, providing varying degrees of companionship and protection. They are also used in prisons, hospitals and homes for the old and handicapped to help in personal interaction, to raise morale and increase feelings of cheerfulness. Working dogs can be used to help the blind, the deaf, to rescue and to protect. Organisations such as the U.K. Society for Companion Animal Studies are continually researching the nature and implications of the human-pet bond. The caring pet owner will come into contact with many different individuals and organisations in order to maintain the health and well being of their pet. These can
range from the pet shop, the trainer, the groomer and kennels, the RSPCA, to vet and animal psychiatrist. To see these and a variety of other local services come to an exhibition in the Link during National Pet Week. It is always distressing for both owner and veterinary surgeon alike to be limited in what they can do for a pet. Hence another service which more responsible pet owners are taking out is pet insurance, this provides you with the security that in cases of illness or accident you will not need to ask yourself, .can I afford treatment?" Veterinary treatment can be preventative with dietary and behaviour advice plus routine worming and vaccination. Medical care can range from treating a mild cough or upset tummy to managing a patient with heart failure or hormone problem. Surgery extends from routine neutering to complicated spinal surgery. Veterinary clinics are staffed by qualified veterinary nurses and managers in addition to the surgeons. These professionals provide a valuable help, directly caring for patients, liaising with clients and giving advice.
v age cen re on v ew Community Centre Reserve site Shops
Doctors Public House Surgery /Restaurant
The Chinese Experience
parcells
PUBLIC NOTICE
ROUGHMOOR VILLAGE CENTRE An exhibition of Thamesdown Borough Council's draft proposals for Rougbmoor Village Centre will be displayed at Sparcells Community Centre, Sparcells Drive at the following times: Tuesday 15 May Wednesday 16 May Thursday 17 May Friday 18 May
2.00p.m.-6.00p.m. 10.00a.m.-6.00p.m. 2.00p.m.-7.30p.m. 2.00p.m.-7.30p.m.
Please come and see the proposals for the Village Centre and let us know your views before any final decisions are taken. A comments sheet will be available at the exhibition or, alternatively, you may write to the Borough Planning Officer, Wat Tyler House, Beckhampton Street, Swindon. Replies must be received by 6 June 1 990. If you wish to discuss the Village Centre proposals please contact Martin Trewhella of the Borough Council's Town Planning Department on Swindon 493280. N H DAVIES Borough Planning Officer THAMESDOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL Town Planning Wat Tyler House BOROUGH OF Beckhampton Street Swindon THAMESDOWN
iV
NEWS & VIEWS LOSE WEIGHT Calling community organisers
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Large numbers of people living in West Swindon give up their time and energy voluntarily to local community groups. There are over 100 community organisations in the area, each with volunteers organising activities and events for group members, with of course fundraising always going on in the background. That's why a meeting is being organised on 10 May to see what all those people need. The meeting is also aimed at people who would like to take part in a community group but don't quite know how to become involved, according to Community Development Officer Laurence Yeoman. "Many people want to take the plunge and become involved but sometimes they need a bit of help and encouragement. Those already involved often feel that they'd like to talk to others to work out problems or pick up new ideas." The first meeting will concentrate on pinpointing the needs of those who attend which will set the scene for further discussions. It takes place atToothill Community Centre, between 10a.m. and 11 .30a.m. Childcare can be arranged. For more information, ring Laurence Yeoman or Lucie Hartley on 526161 ext. 4830/1.
Sell out raffle for special needs children heads for £2,000 A grand raffle which will raise £1,500 for children with special needs has been completely sold out and a bid to add a further £500 is being made. The raffle, which is sponsored by local insurance brokers Mansfield Begbie Associates, was launched in January in association with Westlea School to raise extra funds for special equipment to be used by children who have learning difficulties. Although the draw is not due to
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take place until June all tickets have been sold and a further 200 books are being printed so that the total raised can reach £2,000. Mansfield Begbie Associates have put up £250 worth of vouchers to be spent at the Early Learning Centre, with a first prize of £150. Ring Mike Rees of Mansfield Begbie Associates on 873369, or Neil Griffiths, headteacherat Westlea School on 870469, to buy a raffle ticket or to offer to sell more books.
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VISIT YOU LOCAL GARDEN CENTRE THIS WEEKEND Large selection of • Trees Shrubs • Alpines. Heathers • Conifers • Roses • Herbaceous Perennials • Bedding Plants, Geraniums DAI) (~P p & Fuschias. Hanging Baskets • Rockery and walling stone • Discounts on all composts ...
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The youngsters and sponsors who gave and received at Oliver Tomkins Junior School There were three presentations tuck shop. £25 was raise for Cancer made at a special assembly in the Research. last weekof term at OliverTomkins The school has had a link with Junior School, two to good causes Barclays Bank since a local branch and one to the children themselves. opened in the area last year. A A sponsored event was organ- school bank is run where pupils ised as part of the school's Lent can open a Barclays Supersaver collection and £560 was raised for account. This year the bank put up the National Society for the Pre- prizes for entries into an egg decovention of Cruelty for Children. rating competition; these were In Mrs Bridgett Brown's third draw on paper. Jackie Cough from year class, pupils raised money by Barclays visited the school to presselling birthday cards and cakes, ent the prizes of £5 contributions to and by donating the change at the the winner's bank accounts.
HOME & GARDEN Let Chris help you prepare for the big jobs One of the problems of a major DIY project in the house or garden is the amount of preparation and clearing up required before you actually get down to the interesting bits. It can make you think twice about starting at all. That's where Chris Cosway of C&S Clearance Contractors of Freshbrook comes in handy. He specialises in doing the heavy work for you and removing all the rubbish so that you can start the job properly. The bad weather at the beginning of the year saw him cutting up and removing a lot of fallen trees and fencing panels, but he'll take on anything from remov-
ing waste and materials from garages and factories to clearing houses and gardens. He also takes on lighter work, for example where a garden needs sorting out and tidying up, with grass cutting and hedge trimming. With his own tipper truck Chris, removes rubbish immediately. This means there's no need to hire a skip and have it cluttering up the road outside your house. So If it's a tree you want removed or cut back, the base for a shed put down or you've decided to change yourgarden round completely, ring Chris on 480527 (evenings), or 823343, for a free estimate.
Gardens to visit It is always interesting to see how other gardens have fared. The National Garden Scheme organises a number of village garden open days where a mixture of gardening styles can be enjoyed. There are 4 gardens open on 20 May at Southrop which is I W miles north ofLechlade, west of the A36l. Open 2p.m. to 6p.m., admission £1.50, children/OAPs 70p. Two of the gardens are manor houses, another has been more recently planted and the fourth is a water garden on the River Leach.
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French Marigold seeds, or Lavatera 'Silver Cup,' will be filled with plants ready for planting out early in June. The plants will not look as mature as some brought from the garden centre, but they will grow on without any check and flower only slightly later than the greenhouse grown specimens. If you want a bet on a fine summer, zinnias are better grown this way than germinated, pricked out and potted out. All these plants can be left outside in a sheltered spot to harden off ready for planting out. It is only the frosty nights (and slugs) that needed to be guarded against. Don't forget to give Tender Loving Care to shrubs that were badly hit by frosts in March. Prune back the badly damaged shoots, make sure they do not go short of water and be understanding if June flowering shrubs do not give much of a display this year. Looking at the young shoot on my roses, there were a number of withered buds
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It's time to get readyfor West Swin don 's Annual Gardening Competition, the second sponsoredby the West Swindon Centre. Judging takes place in mid July. Look out for the official entry form next month. Gardens which are under 4 years old and over 4 years old will be judged for trophies with cash prizes sponsored by the West Swindon Centre. Other categories will be announced.
May is when the gardener's window shopping can begin in earnest. The garden centres are full of bedding plants and hanging baskets. Each weekend more gardens are opening their gates to the public and including a stall for plant sales near the exit. The impulse is always to buy more plants to take home. Some heed should be taken of warnings that early May is too soon to buy half hardy bedding plants for immediate bedding out. We were all exclaiming on how mild a winter we had and how early the daffodils and magnolias were and then, ZAP, a week of hard March frost crisped lots of flowers and young leaves to brown ash. Do not be put off from buying any plants at all, though. You can take advantage of those sort-of cheap strips if you take them home and pot them on into 3 inch pots. Left in the strip the plants will stay small, starved and drawn; unlikely to do well when they can be planted out at the end of the month. Potted on, they should should grow in to strong bushy plants; the sort you may be paying £1.50 plus for later. Another advantage of buying these plants in strips is that the garden centres offer single colours as well as mixtures. Imagine planting a scheme of yellow snapdragons with an edging of white petunias mixed with silver helichrysum. The cool glitter would brighten your view every time you look out of the window. It is not too late to sow your own seeds for flowering in July. Yoghurt pots each sown with I or 2
-I.
ENISE' DRAPES
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Letters to the Link
Letters with full name and address should be sent to The Link, • 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by the 20th of the month
Youth Issue
Unfair to pets and owners
Asda
by Robena Winslow, Chepstow Close, Toothill (fol- From Mrs D Witts,Westminister Road, Toothill I was absolutely disgusted to read the so called lowing the comments by young people last issue) It was with interest that I read the letter regardreport on Dog Poll Tax in The Link April edition. There has always been conflict between young- ing ASDA (in the April Link). My husband had From P J Meares of Grange Park
Who thought up this sick April Fool's Day story? They definitely need treatment. This story was in very bad taste. Do you at The Link realise how many old (and not so old) people live alone, with just their dog for company? They must have been very worried, to say the least. People I have spoken to about your article are, like me, surprised and disappointed at The Link having their little laugh at pet owners in West Swindon. We do not think it funny at all. From Peter Keeble, Cavie Close, Nine Elms, Shaw
Either your 'Whitehall correspondent' has inside information likely to bring down Her Majesty's Government oryour otherwise very useful newspaper is the perpetrator of a very unkind 'April Fool' spoof. I refer to your column from Sheila Mitchell stating that a Poll Tax on pets will be instigated in 1991. If it is true, there are many elderly people who will be heartbroken at no longer being able to afford the companionship of their trusted animal friends, not to mention those of us who at present have two dogs, a cat and seven goldfish in our backyards (yes, I really do have them, and estimate that they will cost me a cool £900 at this year's Community Charge for Thamesdown if you are being truthful!). Come along now, don't be so unkind to your readers. I think the least you can do is publish a very prominent apology as soon as possible to put people's minds at rest. If however you are publishing exclusive news of a brand new tax about to be foisted upon the British animalloving public, then I think you may be heralding the biggest revolution this country has seen since the Civil War!
sters and adults. This is nothing new; ideas on behaviour, dress, morals are all issues that the generation gap can't resolve and this is normal. However having worked at Toothill Community Centre for 5 years I do feel qualified to say that a minority of the youngsters of Toothill do cause real problems. Vandalism is rife and the cost to the Centre is not imagined. The Centre cleaners bear the brunt of cleaning up the mess that is left behind and as this is done early in the morning the evidence is removed before a lot of us see it. The Community Centre Management Committee did arrange for the youngsters to use one of the rooms free of charge. They wanted to organise and run the group themselves with support from Youth Workers. This was not successful, attendance was low and it died a death. It seemed they preferred to sit outside and consume cans of beer etc. Could I please reply to Simon (article in last edition) who raised the point about respect, this must be earned by all whatever their age; it is certainly not given as a right. I would love to see a thriving Youth Club and having seen and read the article about all the help Marie Crane gives to Freshbrook Youth and the respect that is reciprocated between them I feel envious that Toothill can't have the same relationship with its youth. To the future, I hope things improve, that the new Youth Club planned for Toothill Farm will find a good Committee, the right Youth Workers and create a successful Club that is long overdue.
Six other wonders
From Sidney the Shetland Pony
From Andrew Capel of Shelfinch, Toothill
Hello, it's me Sidney. I wrote a 'Day in my Life' for you last month. If it's true that we pets have to pay a tax, me an my side kick Tiddlywinkle will have to work even harder to bring home the hay. If you'd like us to teach you how to drive a pony and trap or hire us to give rides at your fete, please give Katie Griffin on 872785 a ring. We're kind, gentle and love a good pat. We'd be only too pleased to meet you.
Firstly I would like to say how much I enjoy reading your magazine. I like the layout and find it easy to read. It is also very informative. In response to Bob Pixton's article 'Its Springtime' (Link 96), I would like to suggest 6 other wonders: Town Gardens; Old Town cycle track; the mural at Iffley roundabout in Rodbourne; the leisure facilities in Thamesdown; Magic Roundabout; the concept of a light railway for the town.
gone shopping that same day and came home complaining about the length of time he had waited. I had sent him for straws, dishcloths, a large drum of washing up liquid, but all were no longer available. He was told these items were Gateway products. He only came home with the bread. We decided to travel to the Gateway at Wroughton and enjoyed the choice of everything we needed. If Asda doesn't improve I think many people will decide to travel further afield for their wants. I know we are thinking of it. From Audrey Hutchinson, Castle Dore, Freshbrook
We moved to Swindon recently and were delighted that the local superstore was ASDA. Having shopped at ASDA for 5 years in Harrogate, near their headquarters, I have come to rely on their high quality products, well laid out stores and keen prices. ASDA have been pioneers in improving food quality - removing diazo dyes from their own brands from jellies to fishfingers, juice to tinned peas. They were providing phosphate free washing liquids, recycled toilet rolls and no bleach nappies before 'green' was quite so fashionable. They have made big advances in nonanimal tested toiletries, toothpaste and shampoo. Their fresh produce, from vegetables to bakery, is excellent. Added to this they make good, practical, well-designed clothes, especially for children. Their housewares department offers a wide range of up to date items. I amamazed at local criticism and allI can say is that when the teething problems are overcome - it ASDA be WORTH IT! From Mr Walter Hodder of Stamford Close, Toothill
Just a few comments re our West Swindon supermarket (Asda). I should say they must be the dearest store in and around Swindon. My home help bought me a portion of fresh chicken 5Y.oz for £1.16, making a whole one £4.64. I could buy a complete chicken for much less than their price, also several articles of various foods previously stocked such as Crest butter, cakes-various, biscuits, have been replaced with their own choice which are dearer and certainly not so good in many instances. At times check outs are not staffed and God help Lineage ads in The Link cost 15p per word. Boxes cost £3.50 per single column centimetre. Inclusive customers when they start selling their own of VAT. Lost and found are free. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon, bread, for how much a loaf? Let's hope Sainsbury's open up soon.
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Share a veg. patch Large Studio at Costa Tequise, Lanzarote. Sleeps 4, large pool, close to shops, pubs and From Christine Hamilton-Kelly, Foxwood, Westlea beach. Maid service, reasonable prices. Flights Would you like to share a vegetable patch? & insurance can be arranged. Tel for details I have a fairly large vegetable garden which I find too much to maintain and would be willing and brochure 881714 after 5.30p.m. to share the produce with someone who could Bonisa, Costa Bianca. Studio apartment for 2, across courtyard from owners farmhouse. Pool, look after it for me, maybe a Senior Citizen who superb views, secluded. £70-1 50. Tel: 850842 lives in the Westlea area. Please ring Christine on 870170 after Span. .Vacancy Oliver Tomkins Playgroup Part-time playgroup assistant, 3 afternoons a week, required as soon as possible. Please ring Liz Mann on 872081
Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook
END PIECES
New man in charge A policeman who started in Swindon as a beat bobby seventeen years ago has been promoted to be the divisional commander of the Swindon North sub-Division which includes West Swindon. Superintendent Bill Pryke, right, took up his post on 8 January as part of a management reorganisation within the Wiltshire Constabulary and is now beginfling to feel comfortable in his new role. His career in the police has taken him through the ranks of both the uniformed branch and the C.I.D., and following a course at the Police Staff College he was awarded a scholarship to spend a year at Exeter University taking an M.A. in Police Studies and Criminal Justice which he completed last September. He says the university course broadened his view of his work and the position of the police in society. He is presently reviewing the effectiveness of policing West Swindon and is keen to promote closer contact with residents. With the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, the Northern Development and planning for the new police station near Westlea within
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eAfr(rc4wn& wt Evening Advertiser and Wiltshire Police
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SWINDON (0793)
512123 HELP US TO HELP YOU
his responsibilities he is concerned that the limited resources available are used to the best effect. This means working looking at ways his staff can work with local people to reduce crime through Neighbourhood Watch Schemes, Pub Watch and other initiatives which involve the community. The Link is working with Supt. Pryke to arrange a public meeting so that he can meet residents and explain police operations in the area.
Crimeline - only a call away The Swindon Evening Advertiser launched Crimeline earlier this year to provide the public with a way of helping the Wiltshire Constabulary beat crime. We asked the Advertiser's crime reporter Steve Hunt, to tell readers more about the scheme. The Evening Advertiser Crime- onymous caller to give more inforline is proving to be a major villain- mation has resulted in a further call beating initiative. to Crimeline. Wiltshire's Chief Constable, More than 50 calls have been received in its first month of opera- Walter Girven, has given the tion. Information has been given scheme his full support and police about drug dealing, attacks on cars now bear Crimeline stickers women, robberies, thefts and vio- 15,000 of which have been distributed in Thamesdown. lence at football matches. And already it has resulted in Police officers carry Crimeline arrests, with alleged offenders now cards to give out at scenes of crime. Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinaawaiting court hearings. Crimeline is an important co- tors have also been sent stickers as operative effort between the Eve- a further method of drawing attenning Advertiser and Wiltshire po- tion to the scheme. British Telecom donated the telelice. It enables callers to dial Swindon 512123 and leave information phone answering machine free of in absolute confidence on an an- charge and has agreed to display Crimeline stickers in all telephone swerphone. Offenders who are named are boxes in Swindon. A Swindon taxi often already known to the police firm recommends Crimeline in its and the information often ties in advertising: "If you see an attack with facts already know about on a taxi driver, phone Crimeline them. almost all the calls are genu- on 512123 now." ine and non-malicious, with many We say from The Link, if you see a callers leaving their names and crime taking place or you're aware of information which might solve a crime, addresses. And several times an appeal in give Crimeline a call. Make West the Evening Advertiser for an an- Swindon a safer place.
EKE'S A GOOD REASON roRDVi1ssNBtuJHEU aUuMPO
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