May 2005 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

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No. 276 May 2005 • Circulation 24,000

and the swindon wide what's on guide

Special Priory Vale site under threat Public meeting to form residents group to ensure sensitive nature area is looked after properly. See page 3

Salt Way School could close, another might follow Future of Toothill, Freshbrook and Windmill Hill uncertain Salt Way parents after hearing the recommendation of the Education Partnership Board on 14 April. See page 14

Can anybody prove that radiation from mobile phone masts does not

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At last, work on building seven new schools gets underway

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Hreod Parkway headteacher Andrew Fleet with Swindon Council's cabinet memberforeducation coun Ga ry Perkins and Sarah Heard of education providers Equiion, in front of the Hreod rebuilding site. See page 13

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2 The Link Magazine • May 2005

Protestors make time to call on governments to Make Poverty History One hundred and fifty people walked into Swindon town centre from all points of the compass to forma ring of humanity around the Jubilee Clockwell on 9 April to express their views that rich countries should make poverty a thing of the past before the 21st Century gets any older. Event organiser Barbara Aftelak People from churches across the from North Swindon MP Michael rally aimed to put more pressure town and members of local Wills and Liberal Democrat elec- on the British Government. said, "we made our point to many "Gordon Brown has asked for as Saturday shoppers, sadly others branches of Oxfam, Amnesty In- tion candidate Mike Evemy. Rev Steven Skinner, vicar of much pressure as possible to be ignored the issue. ternational and the World Devel"In July world leaders gather in opment Movement heard speeches Holy Trinity Chuch, Shaw said the applied so that world leaders can-

Edinburgh to discuss the world not turn away from the issue. "Somebody dies every 3 seconds economy. There will be coaches to as a result of poverty, 11 million a take Swindon people to a large year; the rich countries have it in demonstration." FordetailscallBarbaraon536815. their power to change how poor www.makepoverty history.org countries are treated." The delegation from churches in West Swindon getting the message acre

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The Link Magazine • May 2005 3

Youth needs for discussion at West forum With all the publicity about anti-social behaviour, particularly highlighted by the local media, it is easy to think that all young people are trouble. But the fact is, the vast majority of pre-teens and teenagers are pleasant people trying to make sense of the world around them and grow up as decent citizens. However young people do have provision of youth services. "Councillors need to know what needs for advice, guidance, activ"Last November the forum dis- is going on now and what is needed ity, available in their own time and cussed the reorganisation of pri- in the future." on their own terms, outside school mary schools and the idea of deFellow councillor Gary Perkins, and the family. Do they get it? veloping extended schools which acknowledged that the manageThe question will be discussed provide a range of community fa- ment of Swindon Council's youth at the West Swindon Area Forum cilities. The children who go to service has been poor and this is on Monday 9 May, 7.30pm at the those schools are the youth of to- likely to be reflected in an Ofsted Link Centre. morrow, and the youth of today report. "We have some ver y good West Swindon councillor Nick have needs for sporting and crea- youth workers but leadership has Martin said that local councillors tive activity, as well as advice, in- to be improved. We are looking for want to hear from residents about formation and guidance. a dramatic change and the views Mavis Reed and members of Tooth ill junior Club who were threatened with eviction of the public will be helpful." from Toothill Farmhouse in February but have been given a year's reprieve

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Public meeting to protect Priory Vale special open space A unique field in Oakhurst which is home to the rare green winged orchid Orchis mono - used in the Priory Vale logo - is under threat from housing development and the people living in the area. Now Stephanie and Paul Exell range of animal and insect life to from Southwold Close want other be found. In the Spring it is a mass concerned residents to come to- of wild flowers and throughout gether at a meeting on Wednesday the year you can see deer and in4 May to discuss how the area des- sects flitting about. There are ignated by English Heritage as a masses of birds and thebadgersett Site of Special Scientific Interest is thought to be over 100 years old. can be protected in the future. "The site is not any old field to Stephanie, who moved to Priory walk dogs, play football or exploit. Vale in December 2003, said, "this It is crucial that it is looked after to remarkable area is now being sur- preserve the unique environment." rounded by Swindon. It has never The 4 May meeting, open to anybeen ploughed and because it has body concerned for theHaydenSSSI, been grazed and managed using is at the Priory Vale Visitor Centre, traditional methods, there is a wide Thamesdown Drive, at 7.30pm.

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The Link Magazine • May 2005 ^/ t t()

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School takes on kitchen operations It's not often Government policy is rapidly changed, but Jamie Oliver's TV series on school dinners uncovered a scandal whilst his online petition resulted in an increased amount spent on ingredients to ensure better quality food. But lest people forget, though the Labour Government was forced to commit more money, it was the previous Conservative Government which changed the provision of school catering by bringing in Compulsory Competitive Tendering for contracts, which resulted in cheaper pre-packaged processed food. Before Jamie's programme was screened, governors at six primary schools across the town were faced with a crisis when catering com-

pany AIP gave notice that they were quitting their contract. Several schools started the summer term by serving sandwiches until new arrangements could be made, but governors at Toothill's Oliver Tomkins Church of England School have bitten the bullet and are organising the catering for their own children, as well as the infants next door and

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lunch by kitchen manager Claire Winslow, rear, Westlea School. and Maria Peachey Head teacher Elizabeth Wood said, "it was a shock to be it's great to be given the chance to told that there will be no hot din- make proper school dinners. "The thing that impressed me ners, but the opportunity to improve school catering quickly by the Jamie Oliver programme dawned on us. Obviously it has was the change in children's bebeen a challenge to organise our- haviour when you get them off processed food. It selves in such a Meet the lady behind won't take long for short time, but them to get used to parents like the Jamie's revolution idea and the Former school dinner lady the new menus. "We had a nervkitchen team are Jeanette Orey is credited by Jamie Oliver as making him ous Easter holiday very keen. "The cost of aware of the poor quality of getting ready to do proper cooking — lunch is the same school food. She will be speaking about and we didn't have but we are committed to spend- her book Dinner Lady at the to go to an Army Swindon Festival of Literature ing more on on Tuesday 10 May. 12.30pm, camp like Jamie's dinner ladies." healthy ingredi- in Swindon Arts Centre. ents. As we get more experienced we will be lookNational Vegetarian Week: ing for local suppliers, where we can visit farms to see where food 18-31 May comes from, and also introducing Display in the West Swindon Library. Pick up a free booklet of great reciFair Trade goods." pes or go to www.vegsoc.org School cook Claire Winslow said she had become frustrated about Open day at Eastbrook the quality of food on offer. "We Organic Farm, Bishopstone had been serving more and more Saturday 14 May, 10.30am - 3pm processed reconstituted dishes, so www.helenbrowningorganics.co.uk

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The Link Magazine • May 2005 5

Recycling scheme slow to get up to speed Swindon Council's new waste collection and curbside recycling rounds got off to a shaky start in early April as some of the information booklets were not received by householders, or not read. Vehicle breakdowns meant two weeks of collection chaos. Mike Bawden, leader of Swin- recyclables were collected which don Borough Council said, "on be- is an amazing start. If we continue half of the council I would like to like this Swindon will have no difapologise to residents who have ficulty achieving our 30 per cent experienced problems with our recycling target by next April. collections. West Swindon, Old Town and "We didn't get everything right parts of Haydon Wick now have a but this must be put into context. weekly collection of glass bottles Over 90 per cent of homes in Swin- and jars, food and drink cans, padon were covered - 75,000 infor- per and card (not cardboard), alumation booklets were sent out and minium foil and textiles (bagged 35,000 boxes distributed." separately). Council recycling officer Paper and card is collected in Andrew Cook said people had North Swindon fortnightly. enthusiastically taken to the recyIf problems persist call Swincling scheme. "In the first two don's waste management departweeks over 450 tonnes of ment on 463463.

Community waste group dumped on An important, award winning, community reuse and recycling project could close in August after Swindon Council slashed its grant and upped its rent. For 20 years Swindon Scrapstore munity and in February Scrapstore has linked business and 350 mem- was awarded Investors In People ber organisations such as play- status for its commitment to its groups, nurseries, primary schools volunteers, staff and trainees. and youth groups by collecting Funding is made up of membercompany waste and industrial ship fees, business sponsorship offcuts and making it available for and a grant from Swindon Counselection in a showroom free of cil. In the Autumn Scrapstore apcharge. plied for a £31,000 grant to support a work related training programme, but councillors decided to offer £3,385 to meet the redundancy costs of the project manager. It came as a shock to the management committee said Olivia. "Having been advised to seek support in a particular category, the council have now told us to shut down. To compound this in early April they sent a letter increasing our rent at the Pinehurst People's Centre by £1,500 to £19,500. "It's clear that councillors don't realise that Scrapstore supports the council's recycling targets by diOlivia McCann with volunteers Joyce Chisolm, Leanne Drew, Caroline Harris verting 100 tonnes of material from landfill each year, nor that 40,000 Scrapstore manager Olivia people benefit from the service we McCann said it is amazing what provide. children can do with scrap. "Busi"The council's Agenda 21 denesses see surplus stock or waste partment gave us a £500 grant to for the dump. To our members it's research a book on the twenty years a source of education and creativ- Scrapstore has served the Swinity. In our store you see paper, don community. It would be ironic cardboard tubes, plastic bits and if we had shut down when the pieces, ribbon; you name it, so long book is published." A survival plan has been put as its clean it can be used to stimulate the imagination." into action: membership fees have Scrapstore is mainly run by 30 been increased and staff made revolunteers, but to keep up with dundant. demand, staff are employed and However if the council does not the project has extended into other recognise the value of Scrapstore areas, such as offering work re- it could close later in the year. lated training opportunities. Businesses interested in donatIn 2003 the Lord Lieutenant of ing waste items or cash, or to beWiltshire presented Scrapstore come a member, should call Scrapwith the Queen's Jubilee Award store on 513982 or mail: for recycling services in the com- swss@scrapstore .co.uk

The Link Magazine â€˘ May 2005

No more green field development needed "Â°.fl_I w""

About 150 people from Swindon and surrounding towns and villages marched through the town on 9 April to say to Central Government and Swindon Council that the development of the town has become chaotic and ill considered, and that no new expansion should take place until the northern expansion is completed and available brownfield land is built on. Protesters marching under the should be the region's banner of Swindon Together On principal urban area, Planning (STOP) came from the site for a further groups trying to block develop- 16,000 to 24,000 homes, ment of Coate Water and the Front between 2016 and 2026 Garden, and also the Mechanics' - in addition to 10,000 Institute Trust who want the der- already agreed but still elict building saved from commer- to be built. cial exploitation. Julia Drown, making There were also people from her last public appearWootton Bassett, Chiseldon and ance as MP for SwinPurton concerned about Govern- don South, defended ment proposals that Swindon Coate Water against proposals to build a university campus and 1,800 houses between the country park and the Great Western Hospital. "The develSave Swindon for our futures. STOP march opers, the university organiser Alan Hayward and Kate Brailsford, and Swindon Council secretary of the Swindon Civic Trust, with Sophie are insulting the inteland Paul Hayward, Kieran and Connor Doyle ligence of Swindon people by pursuing a proposal that the turnout. Julia Drown really went out with a bang, she was nobody wants," she said. Richard Pagett from Purton said passionate in her speech. "People should feel personally Swindon should be the vibrant economic hub of the region but not threatened now. By the time the through an uncontrolled, chaotic diggers appear it will be far too late to save the green fields tardash for growth. March organiser Alan Hayward geted for development." www.swindon-stop.org.uk said, "I was really pleased with

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The Link Magazine • May 2005 7

Unwelcome fast food proposal for Ash Brake

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Less than three years after fending off the provision of a McDonalds drive-thru restaurant on a site near their homes, residents of Ash Brake in North Swindon are again battling to stop what they regard as an entirely inappropriate use of the land at the junction of Thamesdown Drive and Lady Lane. This time KFC wants a fast food outlet and a development described as an 'auto centre.' Abbey Meads councillor Justin Tomlinson is co-ordinating much of the opposition. "This is a totally unacceptable development for a residential area and I am vigorously opposing this scheme and I am delighted at the level of support from local residents who are united in their opposition." The last uronosal

McDonalds did not proceed. Residents say the new planning application includes many of the unsatisfactory elements of the original. However it does not inelude breakfast opening. The two parish councils, concerned about the environmental impact, have again objected.

but residents have every right to fight the application every inch of the way. "If development has to take place on this land, it must be take account of the needs of the residents. With the close proximity of the North Swindon Centre, there is no need for additional commercial activity." The KFC application is likely to be put before Swindon's planning committee on 24 May.

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8 The Link Magazine • May 2005

Swindon wakes up to the dangers of mobile phone masts Mobile phone transmitter masts have popped up all over the country, but there is widespread uncertainly about the health effects of radiation. Whilst campaign groups in other parts of the country have been vigorous in their opposition to masts - with sites being blocked and in one instance protesters pulling one down - there has been little public debate about them in Swindon, until now. Four years ago, there were 5 sited away from schools, hospitals between 2003 and Karen Kelly, front left, 2007, from £864m million mobile phones in use across and houses. leading the protest Britain. Now there are more than Lisa Oldham, founder of Mast to £1.6 billion. against the 02 mast The UK's Ad50 million. And to connect them Sanity, one of the largest groups on Akers Way and the new generation of video campaigning against masts, says, visory Group on enabled phones, some 50,000 masts "we've found all sorts of cancer Non-Ionising Raand transmitter base stations will clusters around masts - leukaemia, diation, part of Hodgkin's, breast cancer - as well the National Rahave been erected by 2007. We all want to stay in touch, but as reports of dizziness, headaches diological Protecis the price of making calls becom- and nosebleeds. The scientists say tion Board reb ^ ing too high? A war of words rages there is no conclusive evidence but cently produced between campaigners concerned what did they say about asbestos an update to the governmentwith the health and environmen- or smoking?" r..p 1 ^^5=^A^1!F tal effects of radio traffic, and an The communications industry commissioned SERYETHE TRUTH w* .^ Y industry that profits every time a dismisses health fears as irrational U OU QON 'TDESERI!F scaremongering. Given the vast in- mobiles in 2000. call is made. N __ Health Effects The benefits of the cordless revo- vestment in mobile phone techlution are immense, but how safe nologies, including paying the from Radio Fre(r1b TO 02 PEOPLE is the technology? The anti-mast Government £22.5 billion for thi rd- quency ElectroBf:FOR[ tic Fields, campaigners claim that radio fre- generation (3G) licences, such magnetic PRoFrr,g ^ concluded that quency (RF) radiation from trans- scares are bad for business. CANCER. mitters pose a serious threat, espeForecasts see the value of the much of the recially to children, and want masts UK mobile phone market doubling search so far had In Swindon there have been spobeen inadequate. It states: 'The weight of evidence now available radic objections to masts, but the does not suggest that there are loudest so far took place in April adverse health effects from expo- when petitioners against the sudsure to RF fields below guideline den appearance of an 02 mast on levels, but the published research Akers Way protested at the Civic on RF exposures and health has Offices. The company is to conLondon trained mobile hair stylist limitations, and mobile phones sider re-siting it away from houses For a visit call Sue on 07796 432 700 have been in use for only a rela- and a green space where children play. tively short time. or email sue["a thecuttingclub.com Campaigner Karen Kelly from 'The possibility therefore remains open that there could be Manor Crescent, who has set up health effects from exposure to RF Mothers Against the Mast said she fields below guideline SAR (spe- discovered the mast had permission before her family moved into cific absorption rate) levels.' SAR is a measurement of the her house. "I was horrified to see it emissions when a phone is used. go up just 45 metres from our front Put simply: they don't know how door. I'm particularly worried for the health of my daughter and my safe phone masts are. The issue that angers campaign- son Morgan who has alopecia and ers most is the ease with which other complaints. "Until a few weeks ago I knew telecom operators are able to site masts, often close to schools. Masts nothing about the health implicaunder 15 metres only need notifi- tions of radio frequency radiation, cation to the local authority; un- but there are many many concerns less there is objection, it can be about the radiation given off from erected. Masts above 15 metres masts and mobile phones. "In Australia and New Zealand need full planning permission. The Government granted opera- there are directives that mobile tors legal rights to use public-high- phone masts should not be placed Would you way land for telecoms develop- within 500metres of residential ment in 2001 and planning guid- areas. We just do not know the study ance states that the planning sys- long term health effects." tem is not the place for determin- If you have a concern about masts, of ing health safeguards. If a pro- mail: editor Ca' swindonlink.com posed development meets recognised radiation protection guide- Sites to search: If the answer is yes, then you may be suitable lines for public exposure, local Is there one in your area? to take part in a research study with: planners cannot consider the sci- www.sitefinder.radio.gov.uk ence. Mast opposition Dr Ochoa & Partners Many communities, especially www.mastsanity.org Abbey Meads Medical Centre those near schools, feel powerless www.s-c-r-a-m.co.uk to stop the march of the masts. www.mastaction.co.uk Abbey Meads, Swindon Last year the All-Party Parliamentary Mobile Group highlighted a Radiation research 'lack of trust' between communi- www.bma.org: www.mthr.org.uk ties, government, the communica- www.nrpb.org: www.iegmp.org.uk tions industry and local authori- Manufacturers: www.mmfai.org

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Swindon Medical Research Centre is the only GP community based research centre in Swindon needs help with a number of studies. +ss:«^„^Over the last five years the Swin- tice though three other Cl' don Medical Research Centre practices refer patients and k; based at Abbey Meads Medical patients can refer themPractice has conducted a range of selves. Abbey Meads doctor studies into the effect ofnewmedii cation on conditions such as, type and Research Centre Prin2 diabetes, irritable bowel syn- ciple Investigator Dr Juan ,, drome, hypertension, inconti- Ochoa said medicine can h i' 96 ,^ lii nence, osteo-arthritis, sexual dys- only improve through clinical trials of new drugs. dru s. ` ` function and psoriasis. soriasis. ' Most of the patients involved "Pharmaceutical compacome from the Abbey Meads prac- nies have to undertake intensive testing before a licence is granted. As the only community based reThe local specialist Dr Ochoa wit/i senior research nurse project in the SwinVicky King and research centre manager Optimum Mobility search don area, the work we do Caroline Dunn here is unique and distinct. At the same time similar trials are whether their condition is suitable being carried out in other coun- for the particular trial. The researchers currently need tries, sometimes over several years Wheelchairs — all types and all the results are published in people who experience acute musScooters — all types internationally recognised jour- cle sprains and strains to take part • New & Used in a short trial of a new pain killer. nals. Rise/recline chairs "The benefit to the patient is that People should contact the centre Proper service they have a full medical assess- within 72 hours of an injury and Home visits ment prior to entering any study will be asked to fill in a diary about 1 hon rnnm & test area at and are closely monitored. The the effect of the drug, and return a patients receive a lot of attention week later for an interview. Pinkney Park, Sherston For details of how to take part, from doctors and nurses during Malmesbury the trial and are closely involved call 726748 or mail:drug.trials@gp01666 - 40060 in understanding their condition j83035.nhs.uk and the drugs that are being tested. Research shows that patients who take part in clinical trials have bet Free patient ter understanding of their condi tion and better outcomes. consultation *

BLUNSDON ABBEY PHYSIOTHERAPY

Experienced Chartered Physiotherapists offering specialist treatment for: , Back & Neck Pain U Muscle, Joint and Tendon Injuries J`? Sports Injuries BLUNSDON ABBEY Also available: Acupuncture J Massage Therapy i- Pilates Podiatry PHYSIOTHERAPY Injection Therapy Ergonomic Assessments

NEW FOR 2005 61 Osteopathy with James Wilson Abbey Meads Medical Centre Elstree Way SWINDON SN25 4YZ

01793 701333

new

Senior Research Nurse Vicky

King said the centre was looking for patients to take part in studies of new drugs to treat diabetes, asthma, blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. Sufferers are initially interviewed to establish

Free Chirocheck

always available IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM: ) Backache, Leg pain ld 7 ec N k, Sh ou er, Arm Pain

Mind and body in the library North Swindon Library hosts a free Mind and Body Day on Tuesday 26 April, from 11 am to 2pm, where every aspect of caring for yourself or a loved one will be explored. Discover more about compli-

mentary therapies like massage, relaxation and aromatherapy, the benefits of reading. painting, doing the garden or listening to

music as a means of caring for your emotional health. Experts will be on hand to explain and demonstrate different therapies, discuss how you could make lifestyle changes and set you on a new path to living. For details call Frances Mayes

Headache

& Migraine 0 Sciatica 0 Sports Injury 0 Arthritis 0 Whiplash YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

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at the Swindon Primary Care

*Presentation of this advert will entitle you to a free new patient consultation which will include orthopaedic and neurological testing together with a confidential report of findings.

Trust on 708748 or Kathleen Aitken at MIND on 432031.

(Treatment will incur a fee. Offer excludes insurance claims)

The Link Magazine • May 2005 11 HOMEOPATHY

L.J HOMEOPATHY & REIKI Safe and effective Complementary Medicine

Pam Howells LBSH MARH Best of Health. Wootton Bassett

Pippa Nicholas MARH A medicine that promotes recovery from illness and well being by supporting and strengthening the immune system.

Homeopathy An effective treatment for all ages. and a wide range of health issues

Allergy Testing

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Farideh Colthart D.O. Registered Osteopath David Davies D.O Registered Osteopath

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Cricklade Road Practice (Established 20 years) 530 Cricklade Road, Swindon Tel: 01793 722913

Tel: 01793 772883

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R Ridge Green G1 e d i c a l

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dew patients always welcome Surgery hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am - 12.30pm; 2pm - 5.30pm Closed Thursday afternoon www.ridgegreen.com

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Open 7 d ays a w eek. Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm; Sat 9am - 6pm; Sun 10am - 3pm l 1

EDICAL PRA

CTICE

"I have scoliosis and have suffered all my life (almost 60 years), with constant migraine and periods of immobility. Paul Marshall has improved my condition immensely and I am enjoying a better quality of life." A.C.

Taw Hi ll Vi ll age Centre, Aiken Road Swindon SN25 1UH Reception open: Monday to Friday Sam to 6.30pin

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Tel: 01793 709500 • Fax: 01793 723875 E-mail: enquiries@tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk

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12 The Link Magazine â€˘ May 2005

To omer

John

GARDEN & PET CENTRE Everything yo'u need to create the perfect garden this spring.

Families continue to struggle to find a school place North Swindon families trying to find places for their children in local schools are appealing to Swindon Council to provide spaces at neighbourhood primary schools, rather than expect them to travel outside their community. In March the Swindon Education Partnership Board agreed that Bridlewood School should increased its roll by 27 children in September, but there are still not enough places. Eleven families are appealing to an independent panel against the education department offer of places at schools outside North Swindon.

Looking for a local school. Jake Huggins with his mum Mandy holding Ryan

To Great Western Way

^966y Renault

^ dd Mead Way Building o

The Forresters i Arms ^!

ToPurton ,\s

o__ o

The Chinese Experience

Fitness' First

J^ ^P

To Lydiard Milli ce nt

Mandy Huggins from Holliday Close has lived in Abbey Meads for three years and applied to Catherine Wayte Primary for her son Jake. Thirty eight children received offers but Jake was 39th. Although the school is a five minute walk away, and her second choice of Abbey Meads is the same distance in the other direction, Jake, who suffers from asthma, has been offered Penhill Primary, which is 30 minutes on foot. The alternative is Shaw Ridge Primary, but as she does not drive, two bus trips to get there would be impractical. Mandy said, "I have real fears for our personal safety on the walk to Penhill. We moved to this part of Abbey Meads when Jake was 10 months old because it is close to Catherine Wayte. How do I explain to him that he cannot go there with his friends when we walk past it every day. "It doesn't matter what the officials say, league table performance does matter and Penhill does not meet our expectations for our children. It is unfair for the council to offer us such a poor choice."

The Link Magazine • May 2005 13

North schools get underway At last the £98 million contract to build and run 7 new schools in North Swindon and Moredon over the next 27 years has been signed under Private Finance Initiative (PFI) rules between Swindon Council and education contractor Equiion. Without doubt this is good news for the development of the North Swindon community. But anybody who has followed the twists and turns of education provision in the area will know that the schools will open four years later than hoped. Many parents will still feel resentment at the raised ex- Vurning the new Hreod Parkway School coon Gary Perkins and Hreod headteacher Andrew Fleet, with pectations and broken Sarah Heard operations manager for Equiion promises to deliver. In July 2000, under a Labour adWhat's being built: ministration, Swindon Council • Hreod Parkway School - rebuilt next to launched a consultation in advance the present building on the south site - to of a bid to Government for PFI open Easter 2007; funding. The then Director of Edu• a secondary school to open in September cation predicted that a secondary 2007. on the Priory Vale campus site which school in North Swindon could also includes: open in September 2003. a primary school, and The proposals to build the Brimble Hill Special School for schools was deemed inadequate 2 to 11 year olds: by the Department for Education Uplands Special School in December 2000 and the whole for 11 to 19 year olds process to convince Government all opening in September 2006. of the funding case returned to the • a primary school at Haydon End, south of drawing board. A second bid was successful in April 2002 and it has Thamesdown Drive. open September2006; • new combined Moredon Primary School taken since then to prepare a busito replace the infant and junior schools, ness plan and process tenders. Although Equiion was ap- open September 2006. pointed by the council as the pre- was considered so that there are ferred contractor in May 2004, the no surprises during construction, council PFI team were locked in or later in the management and negotiation on the fine detail of the maintenance of the facilities." contract with the company until Lead member for education coun the last moment. Gary Perkins said the North At a project launch on 4 April Schools project would be a model council leader coun Mike Bawden for future provision in Swindon. welcomed the start of the project. "We are committed to developing "Education is a top priority for extended schools across the town Swindon and we are determined and I would hope that every older that our children will strive for school in Swindon will be replaced high levels of achievement. within 10 years to make them even "With a £100 million contract it more the heart of the communities was important that every aspect they serve." Access from Red

• Villa a * r re ""

gse W

k Secondary school

•~. mary p• ss i oot. -Sp ec ial schools v ^;^' ^ ^, aka

C ;

Access from Tadpoley cane, a.

Open day at new extra' education centre Parents who feel their children need extra help or further challenge in reading, writing, spelling or mathematics are being invited to an open day at Swindon's new Kip McGrath Education Centre. Located at the Basepoint Business Centre, Rivermead Drive (behind the Spectrum! Renault building), the Kip McGrath Centre offers a well established and proven system for boosting mathematics and literacy for 6 to 16 year olds. The centre offers after-school and holiday programmes which have benefited many Swindon children says Andrea Parkinson, who with her husband David, launched the centre in January. "The Kip McGrath system uses computers, audio cassettes and structured worksheets which emphasises a 'back-to-basics' approach to education, so that, with the help of a professional tutor, youngsters grasp the aspects they are weak on, or take on new challenging work. "The feedback has been great. Many parents have seen a new confidence in their children and the children are keen to come back to learn." The open day takes place on Sunday 8 May, 10am to 4pm. Parents are invited to drop in or call 608708 for details.

Professional Tuition 3 For ages 6-16 3 Individual Workplans in English & Maths

Free Assessments Kip McGrath - Swindon Unit 83. Basepoint Business Centre. Rivermead Drive. Westlea SN5 7EX.

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14 The Link Magazine â€˘ May 2005

EPB agrees Salt Way Primary should close at Christmas. Another could shut after more talk Swindon's independent Education Partnership Board (EPB) on 14 April supported a Swindon Council education department proposal that Salt Way Primary School in Middleleaze should be closed and further discussions should take place on the future of Freshbrook, Windmill Hill and Toothill Primary Schools. This means that Westlea, Shaw tion department are concerned Ridge and Brook Field primary with the management and leaderschools are safe, having been in ship of the school, confirmed by an the frame for closure as part of a Ofsted report (see page 18). Lynda Stevens, senior teaching consultation exercise to find ways of removing 650 surplus places assistant at Salt Way, given the predicted across West Swindon chance to address Board, told members that the school had been primary schools in 2009. Tregoze and Peatmoor prima- let down by Swindon. "Staff and ries were not included in the dis- parents cannot believe it has come to this. The quality of leadership cussion. At the public meetings officers has been a concern for years. The and councillors explained they education department have been were taking a pro-active approach well aware of the problems and to the problem by looking at how have done nothing," she said. funding could be redirected towards developing extended schools which i ncorporate

health and social service provi-

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sion, and also more facilities for community activities. The EPB recommendation went to Swindon Council's cabinet on 20 April, after The Link went to press. If r m, 11 April. Salt Way chair of governors agreed there will First day of te Steve Spence hands out letters to parents from Swindon be a formal preCouncil explaining the closure proposal statutory consulBefore the meeting Steve Spence, tation as to the closure of Salt Way Primary and Nursery from 1 Janu- chair of governors at Salt Way School, was highly critical of the ary 2006. The meetings with parents pro- consultation process. "There has duced no clear picture as to been a conspiracy against Salt Way whether Toothill or Freshbrook or or it's been a cock-up. At least, the Windmill Hill should close. The officers and members have acted EPB will consider a report on fur- unprofessionally. "Councillors were saying things ther discussions with parents, govat the Brook Field and Shaw Ridge ernors and staff in September. Councillor Gary Perkins, cabi- parents' meetings which made it net lead member for Education, clear that Salt Way would close. "Then why did the news come said, "the Salt Way roll has been dropping for several years because out during the Easter holiday, parents have been choosing other when officers were away, and we schools. The support at the public couldn't advise staff and parents? "Parents have not known what meeting and written comments is going on, the children are upset made the decision clear cut. "This isn't the case for Toothill, and staff are very angry." Freshbrook or Windmill Hill where How other local schools will abwe want to look at the numbers sorb the 180 Salt Way children will and the needs of the community be revealed after the cabinet deciwith governors, parents and staff. sion. School offices and the LEA "It is essential we come up with admission department have been the best for children in the short flooded with enquiries from anxand medium term and also the ious parents. One headteacher awaiting to be informed of the counrequirements in 10 to 20 years." The EPB heard that, apart from cil's management plan told The Link, Salt Way's falling roll, the educa- 'uncertainty leads to panic.'

:4 MC.1 i i

Sum

FREE TASTER COURSES are being held in Swindon to help you decide whether a career in childcare is the career for you:

â€˘

7th May Ma 2005 Making Choices 9.30am-2pm followed by:

17th and 19th May 2005

An Introduction into General Childcare 9.30am - 2.30pm

Lunch and refreshments are provided Creche facilities could be made available please

let us Know if this would be helpful to

enable you to attend the training. Contact the Childcare Careers and

Training Helpline for further details __ and to book your free place:

0845 602 3209 ^:.-

www.earlyyearschildcare.org

Swindon Sure Start Partnership All staff working or volunteer working with children must undergo an Enhanced Disclosur through the Criminal Records Bureau

16 The Link Magazine • May 2005

Happy Bunnies Nursery

Grans help out toddler group

iiti

•3 ' ^tisicians

North Swindon

Fun Song sessions for

Prices from f2 per hour!

parents/carers with pre-school children and babies

Collection/drop offs to your home or school - any Swindon area Open 7am to 7pm (flexible hours) Monday to Saturday, open all year round,inc. holiday club Fitness classes, drama, singing & dancing sessions. Swimming pool 'No attendence, no charge' Drop-off facility • Mum's club

30* sessions a week, in 9 locations in and around Swindon Call now to find out more and to book your place! Call Cath on 01793 727286 or email saraheminimusicians.co.uk!

Call Maria Taylor: 01793 704089

to find out morel

ATTENTION ALL PA RENTS Music, Singing & Movement For children aged

Jo S tr 9 es 6 months-5 yrs ^s here!

Fun sessions with an ri educational slant

CLASSES IN: ABBEY MEADS (Tua & Fri) WEST SWINDON (Wad & Fri) Call Vi rginia on 01453 839464 www-jojingles.com

Party entertainmen t now available! Call Claire on 07960 153985

•

musics bugs fun & educational music sessions for children aged 6 months to pre-school

Abbey Meads,Wootton Bassett, Old Town now in West Swindon & the Lawns *

free trial sessions available*

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a superb environment nursery and pre-prep school

MEADOWPARK

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Headstarts Day-Nursery School Established 1990

Delta Business Park, Westlea, West Swindon Headstarts is a friendly, 'family' nursery ollering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where ever y child benefits from individual attention.

Conveniently located within afew minutes drive from M4 Junction 16, Town Centre, Westlea and Abbey Meads. J Monday - Friday 8am till 6pm all year J Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds - am, pm, school day, all day. SPECIAL OFFER J Real value for money. From £130 per week full time FREE child care Funded child-care credits available." worth £50 q Government Funded Nursery Sessions" Claim up to £38 worth of Nursery Credits per child I' with this per week - now available for all 3 year olds advert* For further information or to arrange a visit ,; please call Alison on 877779. —. — ' Conditionsapply ** RatesmayvaryJ

L— — — — — — — — —

Win a baby portrait gallery worth £325

Join us for singing, bubbles, puppets, porn pours, animal masks, parachute games and musical instruments!

Well equipped facilities and

When Caroline Bell from Westlea mentioned to her parents that she did not want her parent and toddler group to close, they more than readily volunteered to help her keep it going. Three months on Playmates at Freshbrook Community Centre is thriving and keen to welcome new members to its Thursday morning sessions, 9.30am to 12 noon. For details call Linda Tyson on 536772. "It's great to have mum and dad helping out," said Caroline. "It's good for the mums and the children to have older people taking part in group activities." Caroline Bell, centre, with her mum and dad Ro ,cr and Linda Tuson to the left

The Link has teamed up with Abbey Studios to help launch an exciting new service: mykidspix.com yrF , An experienced ' ,. photographer visits the home to take a large number of pic ' , tures of your baby. r The best 50 images ` `Y` "' are printed on a ` poster measuring 20" x 24." The photo .' package also ineludes a 20" x 16" print and three of the \ , best images measuring 15" by 10." Claire Puschnik from Freshbrook, above, was so delighted with her baby's poster that she has become the local mykidspix booking agent. "We were delighted with the sensitive approach towards children and the finished result. The poster with the multiple images is a unique record of our child: it has thrilled everybody who sees it." Graham Light of Abbey Studios said, "we are excited by this new service which brings a whole new perspective to baby portraiture. We allocate plenty of time to each session so that the baby feels secure and comfortable in their own environment. "We will be extending the service to toddlers, teenagers and families in the near future." The Link and mykidspix are offering a reader the chance to win a complete package worth £325. And everybody who enters the draw will receive a 10 per cent discount should they book one of the free sittings on offer.

;

jjj"

Return the form below to be entered into a draw Parent/Guardian Name ...................................................

Address..........................................................................

Daytime tel ........................................ E-mail:.....................

Child 's name ..................................... Child's age (in months) ........ I agree to mykidspix contacting me with regard to their new service. I also agree to abide by the standard terms and conditions of mykidspix/Abbey Studios and Swindon Link.

Return this form by 12 May to The Link, address on page 4.

The Link Magazine • May 2005 17

Babies get into reading Six Swindon libraries are going for the youngest market segment and have launched a new scheme for children under 4s. Youngsters receive a sticker for every book they read and will get a certificate after reading five. There are five certificates to collect, each designed by a well-known children's illustrator. Discovering the fun to be found in books at the Baby Book Crawl at North Swindon library on 12 April, Maya Kirvar, left, with Lucy and Isabel Dharmasiri, with Jenni Mullorie-Williams in the brtck,,,round

Highworth Pre-School We are an equal opportunities setting

Offering a wide range of sessions covering the Foundation Stage Curriculum to suit the needs of all children, aged 2- 5 Years, in a safe. caring & stimulating environment. ° °

Children's Information Service A one-stop shop for FREE information' s'ORM4 T70

Excellent facilities and large enclosed garden

Qualified, experienced and motivated staff.

SWINDON

Why not pop in and see us? 6 - 7 Theatre Square, Swindon Tel: 01793 541786 Email: into@cisswindon.co.uk www. ci sswi ndo n. co. u k

Excee lesItOTstedReport. Visits welcomed or contact Carol Jessett on (01 ?93J 766646 Newburgh Place, Highworth

.EAR

110

CUPUE

day nursery

A purpose-built nursery on the edge of Wootton Bassett

Nursery committed to its staff Headstarts Nursery in Westlea has received the Investors in People award - at the first attempt. The IIP, which examines how of children and parents. Nursery manager Alison Barrett organisa ti ons manage and develop their staff, states that Headstarts said she was delighted that the IIP has a happy and caring culture was awarded at the first applicaand a strong commitment to learn- tion. "All our systems and coming for staff and children alike. It mitments were closely examined also says that the nursery is well to see if they match the reality of managed in an open manner but how staff are managed. It's wonwith a disciplined approach, and derful and I'm really pleased for there is a strong focus on the needs the team. Investment in staff training and development quickly Ir benefits the children." Headstarts is taki ng bookings for September, though there are a few available now. For details call Alison Barrett on 877779. '_

Charity Day Donations are welcome at the Headstarts parents and children's charity day on 21 May in aid of Cancer and Leukaemia in Children (CLIC). Call 877779. Alison Barrett holds the IIP with help from Heidi Black and Kester Dadzie

THE TIMBER : DECKiNc COMP NY

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18 The Link Magazine • May 2005

Is your PC

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Shaw Ridge Primary School is described by Ofsted as an exciting and successful school that gives pupils a very good standard of education and provides very good value for money. The inspectors say it is a very planning by teachers, marking and the governors work well together happy school which pupils are assessment procedures. as a team and play an active role in proud to attend. They feel cared for Management of the school is school improvement. in a safe and friendly environment highly regarded with the Headteacher Sally Cowell said and their behaviour is very good. headteacher's leadership de- she was delighted that the report Every lesson observed during scribed as dynamic, and provid- reflects the team work which is the inspection was rated as satis- ing a clear sense of direction. Sub- central to the school's success. "It factory and above with 73 per cent ject coordinators play an impor- has given us the stimulus to move being good or better and 30 per tant role in raising standards and the school forward again." cent very good or excellent. The Headteacher Sally Cowell with Year 6 pupils at Shaw Ridge primary curriculum is interesting and stimulating, and imaginative links are made between subjects. Strengths of the school include

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qualify for a grant of up to f 1,000,

People living in Rodbourne Cheney will continue to receive their regular community newsletter from the Rodbourne Cheney Residents Association thanks to a £480 Oxford Swindon & Gloucester Co-op grant The grant will fund the bi-monthfypub//cation of the 1,300 circulation newsletter for the next year Craig White, manager of Rodbourne Cheney Co-op. right, with association members Les White, Patricia Strange. John Hodges and 3anAveries

call 0800 43 5902 for more information

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In January Ofsted inspectors visiting Salt Way School observed well behaved children wanting to do well, and good teaching and achievement in the Foundation Stage and good teaching and learning in Years 5 and 6. However the first paragraph of they have not achieved as well as the parents summary of the report they could have. states: 'Salt Way Primary School is The pupils do not reach high not effective enough. Although it enough standards in English, provides an acceptable standard mathematics and science comof education for its pupils, this pared with those in similar schools. school has serious weaknesses. ImThe leadership of the headportant aspects of the school's lead- teacher is deemed unsatisfactory ership are unsatisfactory and and communication with staff and standards have fallen since the last parents is not effective. inspection. Achievement for puThe governing body does not pils in Years 1 and 2 is unsatisfac- sufficiently hold the school to actory in English and mathematics count and parents do not feel that because of unsatisfactory teaching they know what is going on. and learning. The school does not The inspectors mention the provide satisfactory value for green shoots of recovery are evident following recent intervention money.' The inspectors say pupils are by the Local Education Authority happy in school but comment and a clear improvement plan is many older pupils are aware that being implemented. Children in Suzanne Welch's class played the part of evacuees at an end of Spring term 'street party' to mark the end of their World War II history topic

Swindon & Cricklade Railway Children's Treasure Hunt Not Sunday 1st May rTi & Monday 2nd May THE LINK MAGAZINE' S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWIND ON Murder Mystery Evening Saturday 14th May

The world and its music in Swindon this summer Boogie down to the Old Town Bowl for a great choice of sounds A fantastic selection of musical styles from across the planet hits the town in June for six gigs which will satisfy any critic that the town is absent of culture. British folk band Whap30 3u/y. A/aap & Mona Singh weasal launches the seTwo generations of Bhangra stars Kicking Eng/Xs/7 ri es on Saturday 4 June will have all-comers rocking the ."( music from with what promises to be a park after the third Swindon Mela whapweasa/ storming outdoor ceilidh. _ earlier in the day. After years of develop^r ! 13 August Caribbean Party with ment and building a repuYakie Famirie tation at village hall cei*►! The Shark Family bring tropical li dhs and in folk festival soundsfromoneofthebestSouth^^ ' tents. the 'Whaps were em Caribbean dancebands. j' voted BBC Radio 2 Folk Tickets are now on sa/e from. ,^ Awards best dance band Tourist Information Centre: 530328 for 2005. Swindon Arts Centre: 614837 If you thought that EngLink Centre: 445566 li shfolkmusicwasoldfashai Oasis Leisure Centre: 445401 ionedfingerintheearstuff. you're in forajolt. The band are at the forefront of contemporary English roots music weaving colourful B strands of folk, rock, and East European sound: a EVENING STANDARD AWARDS a intoawonderfulmeleethat will leave no toe untapped. Prepare for a mass danceathon. 2 3u/y. Jazz Jamaica "YOU3LL A 18 June. Candido Fabre v su Described as the permanent ambassadors tothe United Nations of Groupo One of Cuba's greatest singers Good Times, they blend ska, regand composers. Candido and his gae and jazz to the Motown legacy. stunning 12 piece band perform 16 3u/y. Osibisa the very finest Cuban son and Afro-funk pioneers Osibisa burst salsa; high energy performance onto the music scene in the 1970s full of virtuoso improvisation and with their fusion of soul, hi-life, totally irresistible rhythm featuring reggae and worldbeat. Thirty years some of the island's finest charanga on the explosion of good times musicians. continues.

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committee are getting ready for this summer's events by recruiting performers and booking entertainment. The main attractions take place on the first weekend of July, which includes a Medieval banquet with hog roast on The Lawn on 1 July, traditional procession around Old Town, with festival stalls along Wood Street and The Lawn, with a farmers' market on the Godwin Court car park. The festival focus moves on to Town Gardens on Sunday 3 July for a day of music, attractions and

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radio with a Christian flavour. Brought to you by Swindon Churches Together, the station promises a wide range of programmes catering forall ages and tastes. Fordetails call Barbara Aftelak on 536815 or www.flamefm.co.uk Swindon Community Broadcasting goes on air for a four week trial on 1 May from studios in Queens Drive. Ian Rowe and a team of volunteers have been assisted in setting up the station by well known local radio personality Shirley Ludford. For details call Ian on 520895, or mail: soundsfm@hotmail.com On Swindon106FM. on digital radio or www.swindonfm.co.uk . Swiny Ole do Link p ublisher Roger don g g will be p lain g his music choices on Sunday 8 May. 1 pm to 2pm. It's an eclectic mix, from early childhood memories of Cliff Richard and Elvis, through to the Beatles, Stones and more recently Kula Shaker.

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Lydiard portraits saved Lydiard House is delighted to announce that a group of eleven historically important paintings have been saved for the people of Swindon writes Emma Valentine. The paintings of the St John fam- tion but now their future at Lydiard il y of Lydiard Park were accepted House is secure. The collection in lieu of tax by the Minister for the will now remain on display in SwinArts. Estelle Morris, and given to don, giving visitors a huge amount Swindon Borough Council for per- of pleasure discovering more about manent display at Lydiard House. the lives of the people connected

Emma, right, with Sarah Finch-Crisp. Keeper of Lydiard House, in the state bedroom where the portraits of Henry 1st Viscount St John and his wife Angelica Magdalena 1st Viscountess St John hang This Government scheme exists to save important works of art and other culturally important items for the nation. The group of paintings is very significant as they portray members of the family who lived at a the house and directly contributed to the historical development of Lydiard Park, or those whose lives were closely related. The portraits include two huge canvases in the state bedroom of Henry 1st Viscount St John and his wife Angelica Magdalena 1st Viscountess St John. both depicted wearing glorious coronation robes. The portraits had been on a long loan from The De Morgan Founda-

to this historic estate. Lydiard Park is currently the subject of a major restoration project to bring back the features of the historic landscape, including the lost lake, massive dam wall, the ice house and ornamental fruit and flower garden. In early summer Swindon Borough Council will hear the outcome of its ÂŁ3 million bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund to support the restoration, in particular the dredging and clearing of the lake. The Spring/Summer issue of the Lydiard Park Project Newsletter is out now. It includes information about the exciting activities planned for the summer. There is to be a big tea party on 3 July, and on 1 6 July we take a break from Shakespeare in front of the house with an open air performance of The/mportance of Being Earnest on the lawn, For a copy, please call Lydiard House on 770401. www.lydiardpark.org In the drawing room Henrietta St John. daughterofHenry 1st Viscount St John and Angelica Magda/ena. To the /eft above is the portrait of Henrietta as a young girl Henrietta was such a beauty that when he suspected a da/ience with another man, her husband separatedher from herchi/dren and sent her into exile

Swindon

wide whcAt's Or in MCA4

Dance

Theatre

Music

Tuesday 17th, 7.45pm Essence, a dance opera in two acts performed by an impressive group of artists assembled by Fin Walker and Ben Park of Walker Dance Park Music. £12. Wyvern

Monday 9th to Saturday 14th, 7.30pm, Wednesday & Saturday mats at 2.30pm ART. A hilariously funny, invigorating and poignant exploration of what it means to be a friend. Winner of the Evening Standard and Olivier Best Comedy awards £16/matinees £12 Wyvern Wednesday 11th, 7.30pm Three Men in a Boat with Rodney Bewes who has adapted Jerome K Jerome's well loved comic novel into a charming one-man show. £1250. Arts Centre

Wednesday 4th, 7.30pm Organ Recital to celebrate the installation of a digital organ, performed by Professor Ian Tracey, organist and Master of the Choristers at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. £7.50onthedoor orteC 693652 StAugustine s Church. Summers Street Thursday 5th to Sat 7th, 7.30pm Putting on the Style presented by The Kentwood Show Choir. Musical theatre, pop. jazz, opera, swing, gospel and many more styles of singing. £10. Wyvern

Children and Family Events

Sun 1st & Mon 2nd, 1lam - 4pm Children's Treasure Hunt. Swindon S Cricktade Rai/way Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th, 10am to 5pm Swindon Kite Festival. See the experts at work battling Indian fighting kites or skilfully displaying the tricks of stunt kites and powerful sport kites, or make your own kite and see it take to the air. Trade stands, refreshments and licensed bar. Free. Science SOLICITORS Museum. Wroughton. Friday 13th, 7.30pm Sunday 8th, 10am - 4pm Informal Concert presented by the Tuesday 17th, 7.30pm Condition of the Virgin presented choirs, soloists and ensembles of Children and Families Day - with Carter Read & Dove by Tin Shed Theatre Company. A Westonbirt School. Free. Westonbiit the Swindon Festival of Literature. Writing workshops, author visits. Contact: Commerce House quiet Irish churchyard sometime in Schoo/ te/ 01666 880333 storywalks, riddles, treasure 34/35 Commercial Road the future. The statue of the Virgin Saturday 14th, 7.30pm Swindon SNt 5NS Mary miraculously becomes Concert by Band of the Wiltshire hunt.Lower Shaw Farm. Ofd Shaw pregnant. Comedian Boothby Constabulary and The Janice Lane. Seepage26 for festival details * Property Matters Graffoe's first play is darkly funny, Thompson Singers. f5 on the door Saturday 14th Commercial & Residential but also examines the nature of faith or te/' 693652 StAugustine s Church, Murder Mystery Evening. Ticket Conveyancing only event call 692588 for tickets and superstition. Contains bad Summers Street * Employment Swindon S Cricklade Railway language and scenes of violence. Wednesday 18th, 7.30pm For both the Employer Not suitable for children. £8. Arts Saturday 14th, 2.30pm and 6pm A trip back to the days At The Hop. and Employee Centre when rockwas young, with the music Stig of The Dump. * Wills & Probate Saturday 21st, 7.30pm of Bill Haley. Buddy Holly, Brenda Efficient administration of Inspector Puree presented by New Lee, Connie Francis, Elvis, Little a loved one's estate Youth Theatre. Supermodel Linda Richard and Jerry Lee. £14. Wyvern Lovely is murdered, and Inspector Thursday 19th, 7.30pm Tel: (01793) 617617 Puree is called in to investigate. £5 Syd Lawrence Orchestra. Big band E-mail: info@crd.org.uk tickets only available from 0800 swing orchestra with the traditional Website: www.crd.org.uk 7810515 during office hours. Arts li ne up of trumpets, trombones, Centre saxophones, rhythm section with piano, pass ann drums, male and female vocalists and the harmony group. £14. Wyvern Friday 20th, 7.30pm Dave Kelly & Christine Collister with the Dave Kelly Band. A night of utit dancing soul music - rootsy R&B, with a touch of hillbilly 'n' country. £15 Arts Centre Image Theatre present this adaptFriday 20th, 7.30pm ation of Clive King's famous story in The Real Thing. The UK's No 1 soul the latest of their acclaimed band perform their top ten hits and a participation musicals. with Married couples: If you have children, your spouse medley of classic covers. £14 Wyvern opportunities for some children to may not inherit all of your estate. Saturday 21st, 7.30pm take part and everyone else to sing. Brian Kennedy. Not only a prolific For age 5 and above. £6 children £5, Unmarried couples: Your partner will get nothing . Irish songwriter, but also a master family ticket £18. Arts Centre Your entire estate would pass directly to your children. or interpreter of lyrics and praised for Sunday 29th & Monday 30th, if you had none, shared between your brothers, sisters his exceptional vocal talent, Brian 11am - 4pm and parents. Kennedy's musical magic has won Ivorthe Talking Engine. Swindon& Surviving spouse: You may have to sell your home if him fans of all ages. £14. Wyvern Cricklade Rai/way you go into long term care. Monday 23rd, 8pm Tuesday 31st, 12 noon & 3pm Off the Wall breathe new life into Singing Kettle. Join space Pink Floyd's classic songs and adventurers, Cilia. Artie, Gary and Don't leave it until it's too late!! recreate the spectacle of the biggest Kevin as they launch Blast Off! Lots rock concerts. £16. Wyvern For further free information on this and how to protect of fun and audience participation. yourselves against other estate-related issues, all done in Wed 25th to Saturday 28th, 7.30pm £9. Wyvern the privacy of your own home, call now for a free information Ten in a Bar: Ballads, Bands and Wyvern Theatre Summer Blues. Ten in a Bar with their annual pack 0800 328 2364. Please quote ref: 8291. show. A cocktail of ballads and pop, Youth Project 2005 with a dash of opera and a surprisingly Auditions for this year's youth rocky finish. £7 Arts Centre The National Specialists for: project take place on Sunday 15 May, 9am. If you are aged between 1 ills • Probate • • (.iti • ti mr Storage • Thursday 26th, Fri 27th & Sat 28th, 9 and 19 years and are available Power or Attorney • Living Wills • 7.30pm & Sat mat 2.30pm from 7 to 21 August, contact the Property 'I`rnsts • Personal I.ih' Plan, Mah Nah, Mah Nah. All-new variety Nsawt Wyvern Theatre on 535534 or call show presented by Stage Struck. in for an audition form. £850. Wyvern

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Talks

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Monday 9th,7pm - 9pm Our Secret Defence. Stretching from WWII to the end of the Cold War. the Royal Observer Corps (ROC) safeguarded Britain from nuclear strike.Tony Peach explains about this extraordinary organisation and Wroughton's own observer post. Free. The Science Museum Wednesday 25th, 7.30pm War Artists. Michael Moody from the Imperial War Museum will talk about the work of the official war artists. particularly during the First and Second World Wars. £4.50. Swindon Museum S Art Gallery

Monday 16th & Wednesday 18th, 7.45pm The Merchant of Venice (PG) Al Pacino revels in the contradictions of Shylock as both victim and molwhile ester, director Michael Radford's camera prowls around Venice. in this study of anti-Semitism in a painted city where the rot has set in. Jeremy Irons and Joseph Fiennes also star £4. Arts Centre Tuesday 31 May & Wednesday 1st June, 7.45pm Million Dollar Baby (12A) Director Clint Eastwood puts in an Oscar winning performance as a boxing manager who reluctantly trains a girl boxer (Hilary Swank), while Morgan Freeman is his trusty sidekick. £4. Arts Centre

Venues Arts Centre, Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Science Museum Wroughton. Tel: 846200 Swindon & Cricklade Railway. Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios. Tel: 463210 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Tea Dance Thursdays 12 & 26 May 2pm - 4.30pm Carnival Dance Thursday 19 May, 2pm - 4.30pm Memorial Hall. Wootton Bassett All styles and rhythms: sequence, modern ballroom, old-tyme, line dance. All welcome

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Comedy

Exhibitions

Saturday 7th, 7.30pm Rainer Hersch: Being Victor Borge. Victor Borge was a brilliant pianist and virtuoso comedian. British comedian Rainer Hersch looks at the influence he has had on his own career, and lovingly recreates many of Borge's best loved routines. £10. Arts Centre Sunday 15th, 8pm Funjabis and Friends.

Arts Centre Until 2nd June Susie Bailey: Shifting Light Susie Bailey uses accumulate( sketches to create paintings an( etchings based on shifting change: and colours in the landscape. Great Western Hospital Hospital Artists Forum: Focus or Flowers Personal interpretations of the beauty of flowers in this mixed media show Wyvern From Wednesday 4th Gordon Burns: In Detail Gordon's photographs draw on hi: training in sculpture. Scale an( monumentality are explored througf high definition large-scale image: retaining remarkable clarity and detai Richard Jefferies Museum Sundays 1st and 15th, 2pm to 5prr Richard Jefferies cottage. the birthplace of the writer, is situate( within the lovely surroundings o Coate Water. and features some o the mementoes of his life. Free. Fe more details call 466556. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery From Saturday 7th Spotlight on Ceramics Part of national Museums & Galleries Month, this is an opportunity to se( more of The Swindon Collection o British Studio Ceramics. Free.

This award-winning Asian comedy group take an incisive and engaging look at the South Asian culture of second and third generation AngloIndians. Also featuring Europe's top Asian comic Jeff Mirza and hilarious deadpan observations from the UK's only female Muslim comic, Shazia Mirza. £t0. Arts Centre Thursday 19th, 8pm Tim Vine: Current Pun Tour 2005. Hold onto the arms of your chair, you're about to get caught in a hail of punchlines. Tim Vine is officially the fastest joke teller that has ever lived! £>2 Arts Centre

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Swiodol Wide ,

A choice selection from the festival diary. Pick up a programme from one of the venues, a Swindon library or the Tourist Information Centre, Regent Street www.swindonfestivalofliterature.co.uk

new light on the relationship between the authors of Glastonbury Festival humans and honey bees. Tckets£5 Tales take us behind the scenes. Tickets £5 from 466454 BARONESS HELENA KENNEDY from 614837 QC — on just law! What is the record Monday 9 May, 7pm Thursday 12 May, 12.30pm of modern governments with regard Community Arts Centre, Devizes Road to fundamental democratic rights? Crossroads, WILLIAM HAGUE — the This and many other questions are Faringdon Road would be 'schoolboy PM addressed. Tickets £6 from 614837 DAVID MARQUAND looks at William Pitt, who made Monday 2 May, 6pm it aged 24. Tickets £5 from on the hollowing-out of Thursday 5 May, 7pm Lydiard House 614837 the citizenship. Is JANE OWEN—on gardens through Arts Centre, Devizes Road ti me. An entertaining and illustrated MAX HASTINGS — on Warriors! exclusivity of professionalism in Friday 13 May, 12.30pm talk in a beautiful setting. T -kets £6 What make the modern fighting man. conflict with the inclusivity of Arts Centre, Devizes Road citizenship resulting in oppression of SURVIVING ARMAGEDDON Tickets £5 from 614837 from 770401 the people? Presented in association solutions for a threatened planet, Friday 6 May, 6pm Tuesday 3 May, 12.30pm with the Swindon Civic Trust. Tickets Professorof Geophysical Hazards Bill Arts Centre, Devizes Road Community Crossroads, McGuire considers catastrophe on DAVID STARKEY — the Monarchy £4 from 466454 Faringdon Road the planet and whether it can be ROGER SCRUTON. Philosopher and of England! How England became a Monday 9 May, 8pm avoided. Tickets £4 from 614837 public commentator, Roger Scruton, nation state. Tickets£6from614837 Arts Centre, Devizes Road MATT HARVEY & JERRI HART recounts his farming experiences near Saturday 7 May, 2pm - 4pm Friday 13 May, 6pm Swindon. Tickets £4 from 466454 Meet at the front of Lydiard House Poetry, wordplay and thought-proking Arts Centre, Devizes Road XINRAN — on Sky Burial, which STORYWALK — with ERIC comedy. Tickets £6 from 614837 Wednesday 4 May, 12.30pm charts Shu Wen's 30-year search MADDERN. Tales from far and wide, Tuesday 10 May, 7pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road CLICK LANGUAGE of/Xenn about the cheeky wren, the North Swindon Library through Tibet for her missing husband. dancing ash, the holy oak, ROBERT GODDARD — thriller-writer A story, which sheds light on all our — the story of a 'los and the icy puddle. Tickets and master plot-maker reveals some lives. Tickets £5 from 614837 culture. Neil Bennun secrets! Tickets £4 from 707120 £3 from 770401 explains how the Sunday 15 May, 12.30pm Wednesday 11 May, 7.30pm Bushmen of the southArts Centre, Devizes Road Monday 9 May, 6pm Community Crossroads, ern African interior were Jon Snow — his personal journey Arts Centre saved from extincBEE WILSON — on the Faringdon Road Channel 4 news presenter talks about tion. Tickets £4 from HIVE. The acclaimed GLASTONBURY in SWINDON. 30 years as a reporter around the 614837 historian and food writer sheds Festival founder Michael Eavis, and globe. Tickets £6 from 614837 Sunday 1 May, 5.30am Lawn Woods, Old Town DAWN CHORUS. As the sun rises over sleeping Swindon, join the earlybirds to launch the festival. Hear a story. sing a song, dance a jig and celebrate spring. Free

Wednesday 4 May, 6pm Arts Centre, Devizes Road

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Swindon Wide Charity ball booking A charity event is to be held in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief and Prospect Hospice at Blunsdon House Hotel on 17 June. 7pm, including athree course meal, auction and disco, plus comedy from Fred Wedlock and live music by This Way Up. For tickets at £48 call Sue Haydock 01 249 891 065 (eves).

Preparing to walk

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Middleleaze mum Nikki Styles is planning a fundraising walk in October along the Great Wall of China with her aunt in aid of Great Ormond Street where her son Brandon is treated for metabolic ^ disorders. To sponsor Nikki, call 07949 997188. }• A car treasure hunt organised by the Nine Elms pub. where Nikki used to work, raised £280 at the end Nikki S Brandon of March for Nikki's appeal.

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28 The Link Magazine • May 2005

Searching out wolves and moose for scientific study A West Swindon woman is following the call of the wild in May, to volunteer for a week at a conservation resort in one of America's most rugged and remote spots. Lynda Thompson from EastThe park is almost completely know through books and TV." Lynda and her fellow volunteers leaze will work with conservation forested, with no permanent resicharity Earthwatch on their preda- dents, and is the only place on the meet the cost of the research, but tor/prey study at the Isle Royale planet where wolves live naturally, also help out by taking part in a seven-day off-trail hike, looking protected from human activity. National Park in Lake Superior. Lynda said, "I love being in the for dead moose killed by wolves, wilderness, our small groups of and taking the remains back for Singing males Swindon's Wessex Male Choir five or six live much as the wolves scientific analysis. She said, "I am just born nosey welcomes new members at its do - looking for moose, working as Tuesday evening rehearsals at Ab- a team and bedding down wher- and being there with all the scientists lets you learn so much and bey Meads Village Church. from ever we stop for the night. "It is a rare and wonderful oppor- share the experience with other 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For details call Dave Marshall tunity to see places that the general people who have the same paspublic never can - and to experience sions." on 848668. Lynda has volunteered for the things first hand that others only www. wessexmalechoir.co.uk project three times previously but always with an August team. Her participation this May will see her dealing with wet weather CHARISMA and low temperatures caused by BLINDS melting snow and ice. She said, "I see a May team as being the ultimate challenge for Putting in the miles. Lynda with me; the Moose and Wolves project Fitness First manager Wayne Pascall ainbow of colours to brigh is generally considered to be the up your home this Spring! toughest assignment with Earth- have given her free membership, allowing her to train safely and watch." Catch the rainbow at Charisma Blinds The trip will be a great physical easily six days a week to make the The factory - the place for quality and value challenge as Lynda will be carry- most of her time in the wilderness. Manufacturers and suppliers of all types of blinds Lynda funds her trips by giving ing a bulging 20kg backpack which Full fitting service or cash and carry will get heavier as she collects talks about her experiences. For more information on these or other Factory showroom open Monday to Thursday 9.30am - 5.30pm bones and samples. To toughen her up Lynda is get- Earthwatch volunteer schemes Friday 9.30am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm ting help from Fitness First who visit www.earthwatch.org BSS House, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., Swindon. Tel: 01793 434584

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30 The Link Magazine • May 20 05

Greenmeadow footballers sweep all before them

Moonwalkers left out Due to massive demand to take part in the annual overnight Moonwalk through London, in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer in June, it is unlikely Swindon will be sending the 200 people it has for the last two years. The 15,000 places were snapped up very quickly, leaving 20,000 people across Britain disappointed. Quite a few Breakthrough Breast Cancer supporters from Swindon are entering Bristol's Sun Walkhalf marathon on 10 July. For details call Eunice Salmon on 871606 or sign up online at: www.walktheN\•alk.org

SIR RICHAR D BRANSON PAYS FOR MY HOLIDAYS

The youngsters at Greenmeadow Primary School have been on a winning streak this year. They won the central primary schools league for the first time ever, won the play-offs in the local round of the Kelloggs Frostie's sixa-side cup, then represented Swindon in the regional finals in Bristol. Teacher and team coach David Thomas said the boys had shown terrific team spirit, as well as skill to get so far this season.

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West walks return I The popular conducted walks around West Swindon have restarted. Spend Wednesday afternoons walking at your own pace around the area with guidance from Link Centre staff. Using maps provided by The Link magazine, there are seven different routes, all on footpaths, crossing as few roads as possible. There's a gentle stroll to Toothill Park or to Lydiard and back, whilst longer routes go to Peatmoor Lagoon or Old Town. No booking is required. Buy a ticket at Link Centre reception and be ready to stride out at 1.15pm. Everyone is welcome, bring a friend or make one en-route.

Wake up to the great outdoors!

rood winners, back from left, Kane Field, James Trott, Michael Diss, Kyle Fullerton, Josh Morse, Shannon Long. Front, Harry Trott, Ben Nash, Carl Merchant, Lewis Petrie

Swing and putt in support of CALM Golfers are wanted to take part in the annual day for Swindon Children's Cancer and Leukaemia charity CALM at the popular Wrag Barn course near Highworth on Thursday 23 June. Different competitions for men mous Belfry course. "We can guarantee entrants a and women will be running throughout the day, to be followed very enjoyable day and a chance to in the evening by a prize draw and provide invaluable help fora popular local charity at the same time." auction. Last year the event raised over CALM chairman Don Macarthur said theorganisationistotallyvol- £5,500 which provided muchunteer run and all money raised is needed convalescent breaks for spent on assisting Swindon fami- families, as well as organizing trips lies who have a child with cancer, and social gatherings, and financduring treatment or afterwards, or ing a family support worker and sadly, after bereavement. "We are social worker. No money is paid very grateful for the support of the for administration costs. Wrag Barn management and staff, To enter the golf day or to dowho always ensure superb golfing nate auction and draw items, call the CALM secretary Helen facilities and excellent catering. "The Swindon De Vere Hotel is Willstead on 01672 841098 or mail: our main sponsor, providing an almpost@hotmail.com or write to: excellent first prize of a round of P 0 Box 1191, Marlborough, SN8 golf for four with lunch at the fa- 1WG.

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The Link Magazine • May 200 5 31

Running New York

Mountain biking for Macmillan

Well known fitness expert and personal trainer Les SIinn from Abbey Meads is planning to run in November's New York marathon in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief and is looking for support. "If I can raise enough to help just one person get through some tough times that's a good enough reason for taking part," said Les. q +h He can be contacted on 0783 3582788. Payments online by credit card is secure, >3 quick, easy and qualifies for an additional 28 per cent contribution under the charity rebate arrangement for donations by UK taxpayers. This can be done via www.justgiving.com/ lesny Les can also be found at www.lspersonal training.com

The ninth Castles Mountain Bike Ride takes place on Sunday 5 June in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief and organisers are aiming to increase last year's total of 300 riders who raised £8,300. There are three fully marshalled the Great Western Hospital. routes covering 10, 15 or 25 miles Macmillan Nurses give vital supstarting at the Croft Sports Centre port to patients who are living with taking in the Ridgeway and Wilt- cancer and their families. Where shire downlands. necessary financial support may Sponsored by Swindon Cycle also be given. Centre and Mitchell Cycles the ride For details call Jill Greenaway is suitable for all over 12 years, but on 521630, mail: jillgreenaway under 16s must be accompanied @ntlworld.com or Bruce Warr on by an adult. 729333, mail: bruceandcherry@ All the monies raised go directly talktalk.net to the Swindon and Marlborough Download an application form Appeal to fund additional posts at from www.castlesbikeride.co.uk

West Swindon woman bids for world underwear domination Ladies, are you fed up by the cost and hassle of buying underwear on the High Street? Looking for a pair of posh pants, a brilliant bra or a cracking corset? Don't get your knickers in a twist! Middleleaze based Wendy Trigg has the answer, writes Kate Williams. Wendy has just launched blackthong.com, an online, mail-order lingerie company that caters for every size, shape, budget and occasion. Describing the stimulatation behind her business venture, Wendy said, "it all started last year at a salsa party on my honeymoon in Cuba. I took part in a limbo competition wearing a completely inappropriate outfit - a short denim skirt and a black thong. "When the photos were devel- "And men can spare their oped, my husband Matt joked that blushes and use the site to buy they should be posted on a website underwear for their partner in the called black thong.com " privacy of their own homes." The name stayed with her and Despite being launched only a six months later when Wendy de- few weeks ago, Wendy is pleased cided to pack in her office job for with the interest that has been something more exciting, she shown in the site and puts the sucthought it would be the perfect cess down to the variety and prititle for her great new business vacy that buying online brings. idea. "We have something for every She said, "web purchase is so size, shape and style on the site, as easy and it's less expensive than well as a cuddly temptations colthe High Street. Because we use lection featuring plus-size lingeUK manufacturers and have small rie. There is some beautiful bridal overheads we can keep the prices underwear and plentyofotherlinlow without sacrificing on quality gerie to take on your honeymoon or style. maybe even to Cuba."

Spring Back Ti p Fitness With The De Vere Swindon! It's the time of year when summer's in sight and you're looking forward to that long awaited holiday. With our help )ou can get into shape for summer and ensure that getting into that bikini isn't too much of a squeeze! New Membership Packages Include: tc Joint Full Membership £70 per month , •, Joint Off Peak membership £55 per month Over 60's & Children's memberships are also available Facilities Include: Heated Indoor Pool, Cardio Vascular Suite, Sauna, Gymnasium, Solarium, Steam Room, Spa Pool, Fitech Lifestyle Room, Health & Beauty Suite, Cafe Pulse

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Women offered business chance The Swindon Businesswomen's Breakfast Club is looking for budding tycoons to enter their ninth annual Make it Happen Award. The winner will benefit from up to £500 for training, top-notch career advice and the help of a mentor from the club. They will also receive a year's free membership where they will have the chance to network, exchange views and listen to speakers on a wide range of topics. The panel is looking for Swindon women with strong career goals and who know how they will achieve their aims. To enter, write in explaining your education, background and current work situation, your aims for the next five and 10 years and how you will achieve them with and without the help of the award. Also detail any previous support you have received. Use no more than two sides of A4, include your name and contact details, and send to Maureen Inwards at Intergraph, Delta Business Park, Great Western Way, Swindon SN5 7XP or mail: maureen.inwards@inter2ravh .com b y the 27 May.

Caroline welcomes Debbie to her team. Debbie is a fully qualified, experienced hair stylist and looks forward to meeting past and new clients. Caroline also has pleasure in introducing her new apprentices who commence their full time training this summer. Peatmoor Village Centre SchwarzksPl VVV

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The Link Magazine â€˘ M ay 200 5

New found confidence for Toothill's greatest loser When the scales tipped over 26 stone, Giles Smith decided that he had to do something to stop his exploding weight problem. Little did he know that with will power and help from the local Slimming World class he would lose an incredible 10 stone in 36 weeks. Giles maintains a rigorous diet LastyearGiles turned to his dad of vegetables and lean meat and for help and he suggested joining has been adopted as a role model him at Sharon Painter's Slimming by club members. World class at Toothill CommuHe's also joined a badminton nity Centre. "I knew I would just club, something he would never keep piling on the weight if I went have contemplated before shedon stuffing myself with junk food; ding the pounds. I can't remember a day when I ' "As you can see from the picture didn't have chips" said Giles. Giles was a very big guy," said V Sharon. "But he really is amazing. son and it was tough going along His determination to lose weight to the class with all those women is an inspiration to all of us and it's n there; it was really hard to keep to -yhc0C atehZte ec fantastic to see the growth in his the diet at first. But losing 15lbs in confidence. the first week gave me the boost Strangers frieneT "Giles set his own goals and o ly and I've just kept it up." we've been there to support him you have Giles , left, beforestartin S^hisdiet. Ri S^ht rueet. with advice on diet and lots of the new Giles Smith with Sharon Paints r t _ gy p encouragement." I wasn't

very

determined

Contact point

per-

An ear to better health

Reiki Master Yasmin Hopkinson wrote about the benefits of Reiki in the April edition but we did not print her phone numbers which are

Continuing our series on complimentary health treatments Laura Campbell, who runs Hands of Thyme, describes Thermal Auricular Therapy or Ear Candling. Ear Candling is a treatment that Hopi' means ;r . has been used for centuries to re- ' peaceful ones' lieve ear problems. Originally used and the company by civilisations such as the Egyp- who produce the tians, Romans, Greeks, and Asians, candles I use in my C` it is better known today for its link treatments, con877780 or with the Native American Hopi tribute a proportion of monies retribe. 07729 228979 ceived back to the Hopi tribe. This is by way of 'payment' for the use of their'recipe' for the candles. PILATES CLASSES The candles are Shaw Village Hall Mon:6pm - 7pm; Wed:7.30pm - 8.30pm hollow tubes Haydon Wick Tues: 8pm - 9pm made from a comPrime Bodies Gym Tues: IOam - I lam bination of herbal extracts such as chamomile and With the client lying on their YOGA CLASSES sage. These are blended in honey side, a protective covering is placed Haydon Wick Mon:7.30pm - 8.30pm (Beginners class) and beeswax, with organically around the ear. The candle is rested Greendown School Tues: 8pm - 9pm; Fri:7.30pm - 8.30pm grown linen, which is rolled into a on the opening of the ear to form a CrickladeTown Hall Mon:7.30pm - 8.30pm: Thurs: I pm - 2pm tube with a small filter inserted at seal and is then lit and allowed to NEW CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS at IYC, Old Shaw Lane burn for about two thirds of its one end. Yoga Wed: 12.30pm - 1.30pm Ear candling can be used to re- length. Pilates Thurs:9.30am - I0.30am; Thurs: 7pm - 8pm The candle is supported lieve a variety of ailments, including migraine and headaches; glue throughout by the therapist, for ear in children - a safe and gentle safety and to maximise the effectreatment; catarrh; sore throats; tiveness of the treatment. You will feel a gentle warming sensation sinusitis; tinnitus and tonsillitis. It is good for those prone to ex- with a feint crackling sound which cessive ear wax, such as ear-plug lasts for about 8 to 12 minutes. wearers like musicians and motorThe herbal vapour circulates in bike riders. People with minor the ear cavity stimulates blood and snoring disorders also benefit. lymph circulation, which can boost It is not a suitable treatment for the immune system and help reguthose with grommets in place, al- late pressure within the sinuses. Monday: 6pm & 7.30pm Even Swindon Community lergies to any of the products or Relief can be immediate with a Centre. Rodbourne. ear infections. Tuesday: lDam, 5pm Kathryn. 871430 release of pressure, freer nasal & 6.30pm Toothill Community Monday: 6.30pm & 8pm The treatment itself lasts about breathing and improved sense of St John's Church. Haydon Wick Centre. Sharon. 527332 45 to 60 minutes and should only smell. The candling is repeated on Rob. 771414 Wednesday: 6.30pm Brookfield School be done by a qualified therapist. It the other ear and the treatment is Tuesday: 6.30pm & 8pm Kathryn. 871430 Abbey Meads School is not one that can be self-adminis- completed with a relaxing facial Paula. 701442 Wednesday: 6.30pm tered. A full consultation is com- massage to aid the movement of St Francis Primary School. Taw Hill Sandra. 07985 914112 pleted prior to treatment and ob- any congestion released. servations from an examination To try out Hopi ear candling, 08700 75 46 66 with an ottoscope are also re- call Laura Campbell on 877447. y

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The Link M agazine • May 200 5 33

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34 The Link Magazine â€˘ May 2005

Twenty years on, Link Centre visionary revisits Continuing our series on the twentieth year since Link Centre opened, we meet one of the key people behind the vision for the town's largest leisure and recreation centre.

Former Thamesdown Council recreation officer Graham Swatton was reluctant to make a return visit to Link Centre for the first time in ten years from his home in Wroughton as he wasn't sure if he wanted to see the changes to the building. Known as an energetic mover the town's new leisure facilities, as sions with Nigel Honor and his and shaker in recreation circles, well as having a practical view on design team to get the building we Graham was given the task of how such a huge building could be wanted within budget." Nigel was drawing up the brief for a major run. "There are 147 rooms in Link interviewed in the February Link. "The council had a vision that recreation centre in 1981, paid for Centre and I had the task of drawby the council's sale of land for the ing up the specification for every the western expansion, being as wall, floor and ceiling. I remember big as Salisbury, should have faWest Swindon shopping centre. Having been manager of the we had some very tense discus- cilities like a swimming pool and a sports hall, community and arts Oasis Leisure Centre between 1976 Return visit for Graham Swatton centre. and 1979, he was well placed to "In the 1970s and 1980s Swincoordinate the range of uses for don was a leader in recreation provision and it had a big commitment to community development. The Oasis was almost unique in Britain and councillors and the officers saw a great opportunity to Suppliers of finely finished granite, marble, do a lot more in West Swindon, by li mestone, slate, sandstone and gypsum having an ice rink and a two and a half court sports hall, plus the liGranite Worktops brary, arts studio and community Enhance your kitchen with the beauty of natural stone. suite. Table tops, bar tops. shop counters, reception desks. "The Link Centre contains a lot Affordable granite worktops from ÂŁ137 per metre. of innovation like using the heat Local supplier and stockists. visit us and see your stone. from the ice freezing equipment to Haydon groups get heat the pool. We had to get buildIt s easy to replace your existing worktops - or we can work alongside your kitchen installer. ing regulations clearance for the price promise steep seating in the rink to provide Call us now on 08702 422 998 Long established user groups of spectators with the best view posthe Haydon Centre received a Showroom: Unit 41 BSS House, Cheney Manor sible. shock in early April when they were hit by a 30 per cent room rent rise. When the centre was managed by the Haydon Wick Community Association, such users benefited C o ns L-Ld from special community rates. But after it disbanded a year ago, SwinLoft Conversion Specialists don Council has taken the opportunity to bring rents in line with its other leisure centres. The Young at Heart group was one that feared the effects of further increases but received assurances of price stability after a meeting between John Short, director of Swindon Services, and parish 24 April 1985, Thamesdown Mayor councillors. "We understood that Harry Garret and his wife gives a civic further increases were in the pipe- initiation to ice skating at the Link Cenline but it's a relief to be told that tre with help from Lincoln the mascot "I'm proud of our commitment there will be no further significant Acenti Designs Ltd specialises in converting all types of loft into quality living space. price rises in the next two or three to wheelchair users. Every door Whether you need more space or wish to expand your house rather than moving, loft years," said long time group mem- was wide enough to get through, conversions are a cost effective way of increasing your living space without losing years before legislation required ber Arthur Shellard. valuable garden area. We convert all types of lofts including modern `W' truss lofts. High charge increases have also it." Graham said it was strange to been imposed on Swindon Card We are a professional engineering company, who make extensive use of computer holders entitled to the largest dis- revisit Link Centre and that it felt aided design (CAD), to optimise the space and the head height within a loft and to accurately design stairs to fit into the complex geometry of a loft causing a minimum count (concession 2). Prices for different to how he remembers it. disruption to existing living space. snooker, short mat bowls and line And whilst he is sorry that the arts dancing and for the old time tea suite had been replaced by a gym If you need more living space for a bedroom, dance have more than doubled. and the sports hall capacity had office, playroom or a place to relax, Some Haydon Wick residents been reduced because of the climbconverted lofts make very attractive also reacted strongly to proposals ing hall, he believes the vision for li ght extra rooms. for big increases in the charge for the building is still there. Designed correctly loft conversions are an He said, "we had a very incluindoor bowls at the Oasis Leisure environmentally friendly, cost effective way sive dream. Our aim as a council in Centre and have negotiated a faof increasing living space. vourable deal with the council by the 70s and 80s was to provide as forming themselves into a group: much as possible to the highest Freephone 0800 9178695 other users may not be able to quality for as many people as poswww.acenti.co.uk sible." achieve such relief.

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. z1 Ii I 1J

The Link Magazine • May 2005 3 5

New base for lifeline on wheels An essential service for the housebound and people with disabilities has moved to larger, more functional premises on the Hawksworth Estate which were officially opened by North Swindon MP Michael Wills at the end of March. Thamesdown Community groups. "Our new office is well to maintain the vehicles to a high people with disabilities and other Transport started in the late 1970s located to cover all parts of the standard. socially excluded people are able and theThamesdownDial-A-Ride townwhilstthegarageallowsstaff "Some people can feel their to get about and access services service, which was house is a prison and our service most of us take for granted. It's so launched in 1986, — ___, gives the chance to do what others important to reduce isolation, supnow operates over • find normal. It's humbling when port people's independence and twenty mini somebody is so pleased by a drive enable participation in society." buses and cars. around the town or says a day trip Thamesdown Dial-A-Ride and Chairwoman has been their annual holiday." Community Transport are always Kaye Franklin Michael Wills, handing over the in need of volunteer drivers to help said the organisa'. { keys to a brand new mini-bus, said community organisations take t tion aims to pro he had been a long time supporter their members on trips. For details vide fully accessi^= — ^ of the service. "It's wonderful that call 617828. IVEi EEDED n r bletransporttoindividuals who cannot use public transport and to ' cal not-for-profit I

PARKING

CENTRAL SWINDON

Brian Freeman tries out the new mini-bus with Michael Wills and Kaye Franklin

Annual long stay parking from only £63.00 per month

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience (No VAT to pay) CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

Providing friendly & efficient * servicing to any make of car ANYMA * engine & gearbox rebuilds * electrical repairs * brake and clutch repairs * cam belt replacement * MOT repairs * sales

< OF VEHICLE SER I E VC

D_ ^ ,,, ,` I

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667 39b Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Est. 1981

Your local garage door specialist • Up and over, roller and sectional garage doors • Remote operation doors • 2 years guarantee • Maintenance free doors • Superb security locking facilities • Stockists of the largest range of spare parts in the South West of England Telephone 01793 513796 Maxwell House, Maxwell Street, Swindon email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

Contact Christine Jenkins Tel: 01793 - 690600

Don't let annoying cosmetic damage ruin the look & value of your car A fully mobile service: we visit your home or premises for a convenient, high quality repair • Paintwork scu ff s and scratches • Interior trim repairs • Bumper repairs • Alloy wheel repairs

Call 07050 266325 for a free, no obligation quote your partner in business

www.trimlineswindon.co.uk

36 The Link Magazine â€˘ May 2005

VACANCIES Self-employed Business Administrator required for growing business, to work based at home. Good telephone and PC skills essential. Self-employed part-time IT technician to cover day shift. Network server, Microsoft skills essential For further information

contact 01793 887883

Help to run local shop on offer

Making the best of pets

Following the suggestion in the March Link that residents of St Andrew's Ridge could band together to run the former Tesco convenience store, Julie Allen of Cooperative Futures has offered her help to anybody who wants to talk about the possibilities. The sudden decision in Febru- don. Taking on another store servary by Tesco to close the store ing a limited market is a big risk. shocked the community. ApparHoweveracommunitycooperaently too many people from St tive could be an option says Julie, Andrew's Ridge were using the who helped Blunsdon villagers similar store at Abbey Meads Vii- start their own local shop. "From lage Centre and were not helping my experience of working with their local store contribute to corn- people in Blunsdon I would be pany profitability, happy to discuss how a cooperaAnother retailer commented to tive could be formed." The Link that, despite local needs, Julie Allen can be contacted on the pressure on retailers was enor- 848899 or mail: Julie.Allen@co-opmous, particularl y in North Swin- erative futures.coop

Best of Friends - Best of Health is the theme of National Pet Week between 30 April and 3 May and the staff from Thameswood Vet will be in the Brunel Centre on Tuesday 3 May, 10am to 5pm. The team of vets, nurses and receptionists will discuss pet dilemmas, ranging from squirming parasites to badly behaved dogs. Thameswood Ted will be putting in an appearance to hand out goodies. The staff will also be giving away vouchers for free health checks and discounts on vaccinations and identichip insertions.

plans drawn for extensions change of use

for a professional & friendly service call sandra wisenian on

Drawings for: 0I-Tome Extensions O Conservatories O Garages Please contact:

01793 539274

(01285) 713936

wise plan

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

fora free no obligation consultation

Mob: 07779 247888

Help older people make more of life Age Concern Swindon is on the look out for people living in West and North Swindon with time to brighten up the lives of some local older people. Although the organisation has nearly 200 volunteers it always needs more, in particular people who can offer an hour or two a week to visit someone regularly in their own home. "Our volunteer visiting service supports over 100 people, but demand is enormous and we always have a waiting list," said coordinator Sarah Jefferies. "We're looking for no special skills - just warmth and humanity and, of course, time. We provide both induction training and support to make sure the volunteers are able to do the job." If you have an hour or two to spare you could help brighten up someone's life. There are a few formalities to cover, but these are essential to safeguard everyone concerned. To find out more, contact Mel Richards at Age Concern Swindon on 692166 or mail: volunteering@ageconcernswindon.org.uk

^HO1C AN[^ MORE PKers

nin^1 Bathroom Warehouse UNIT 2 LYNTON ROAD, CHENEY MANOR IND EST SWINDON, WILTS SN22QJ 01793 619708

F] e^

day Manor Gardens Lynton Road

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SPECIAL OFFERS ON EX-DISPLAY SUITES UP TO 40% OFF

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4. ALL TRADE EN WE OIV E R UMBERS AIND ASSC)CIATED 3 -r T RADE SQUIRED

I NSTALLATION LEAPS AND WEB SITE REFERRALS AVAILABLE NOW!

OPEN 8:30-6PM WEEKDAYS SATURDAY 10-4PM

The Link Magazine • May 2005 37

Animals in need of caring homes The North Wiltshire Branch of the

RSPCA are making an appeal for people willing to adopt rescued

animals. These can be dogs, cats, rabbits or other more exotic pets which have been saved from poor treatment. All adoptions are subject to home

visits and a donation towards maintaining the fostering service will be requested. Call Anna Mills, the branch fostering co-ordinator, for details on 829630 or mail: anna@mills999 .freeserve.co.uk

,vets,?. " rrnr ft

Relieve aches, pains & discomfort with a magnet

I provide a friendly caring and professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals.

Many pet > owners see dramatic changes in

cats and dogs with stiff joints.

Would you like your pets looked after in the comfort of their home?

.4?

Humans benefit as well.

For a full colour brochure, call 608840

Whether you're away on holiday or just out at work all day, I can feed, walk and care for your pets. Service tailored to suit your needs. For more details phone Carole on 01793 702098

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE

Saturday 9.00am - 4.00pm 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only. Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

VETERINARY SURGERY

Abbeymeads Village Centre, Elstree Way, Abbeymeads, Swindon. Tel: 01793 728728

A friendly, caring service for you and your pet Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm

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

sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk ^

AV E

Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

David Warnes BVSc MRCVS

v _

PETS AT HOME

Opening hours: Mon-Fri: gam-6.30pm Saturday: 12 noon-3pm Consulting hours by appointment: Mon-Fri: 9am-10.30am; 3.30pm-5pm: 5.30pm-6.30pm; Saturday: 12 noon-3pm 24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: 01793 522483

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

Paradise Pets Ltd

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

We offer the largest selection of cage and avairy birds, rabbits and guinea pigs. Small select range of reptiles Food for all your pets

. ne Walist ►►^an

lavoestsp pet stove. Hand reared parrots in stock

►Viv►tus

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 1 Oam - 5pm; Sun: 10.30am - 4pm

Tel: 01793 512400

38 The Link Magazine • May 2005

EDEN LANDSCAPES eu

FENCE ERECTION. STAINING & MAINTENANCE

O Paving, Walling O Fencing, Patios O Gravel drives "No job too small'!

Give your garden a makeover

For reliable service and quality work

LAWN & HEDGE CUTTING PATIO & TURF LAYING GENERAL GARDEN TIDY

Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 8430556 e-mail: davidsmith@garden-groomers.com www.garden-groomers.com

Tel: 01367 710772 Mob: 0775 4245160

LIP\I ID4CIt\Pll IG LANDSCAPE SERVICES www.horticare.co.uk

* Ponds * Patios * Turfing * Fencing * Garden maintenance * Garden design * Decking * Pergolas ALL WORK GUARANTEED

GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc. • Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas Contact: 01793 692687 > 0771 1 253508

Exotic sights to see A enormous moth has started to hatch at the Studley Grange Butterfly Centre, close to M4 junction 16. Attacus Atlas or the Atlas Moth can have a wingspan of twelve inches and the centre has about 40 puppae expected to open during May and June. Look out also for the incredible Glass Wing butterfly, so named because you can see right though its wing. Many children believe fruit only comes from the supermarket and have no idea that they grow on trees. In the tropical greenhouses at Studley Grange, not only can you see large butterflies fluttering about, there are large bunches of bananas growing as in the wild, as Studley Grange manager Luke Browrr well as grapefruit, orshowing off the scale of the Atlas Moth anges and lemons.

D.A. DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS LTD EJ Block Paving 71 Landscaping 0 Fencing Decorative Stone 71 General Maintenance For a professional and affordable service. free consultation and written quotation

Tel: 01793 878062 or 07866 523898

LAWN HOPPERS grasscutting

A grasscutting service for both large and small gardens

Weekly, fortnightly or monthly visits All machinery supplied to keep your garden neat and tidy All rubbish removed Full garden maintenance service available

Tel: 704204

4a[-1e t0L.50 Garden & Maintenance

• Fencing repaired/replaced. • Patios & paths. Decking & pergolas. • General garden maintenance. • Paving cleaned. • Laminate flooring laid, internal and external painting undertaken, tiling. etc. Quality work at reasonable rates.

Customer references available.

Contact Russell Pratt on 01793 706026 or 07834 402606

LANDSERVE Garden Maintenance & Landscaping

IfU>! .

Ott¢ rr! % Professional care r, for your garden Grass Cutting -regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning

DAVID HAWKINS

TREE SURGEON All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Fencing Fruit tree pruning

Hedge Cutting C Pruning

Fully insured

No Job Too Small. All works insured.

Free estimates 11 years experience

Call Martin Emer y MI Hort. for free quotation on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294

01793 823257 07050 383060

STEVE JEANS

11W GARl)E1T

Lawn & Garden Maintenance

SER • ICES

• Lawn cutting * General gardening * Hedge cutting * Fencing * Turfing * Gravelling * One-off or regular customers welcome For regular reliable and friendly service call Steve Tel: 01793 536713 Mobile: 0794 1022 461

Garden Maintenance, Planning & Design A personal, friendly service to enable you to fully appreciate your garden 6 46 Planting 0 Pruning ±. Landscaping J. Grass Cutting/Lawn Care A Garden Clearance/Tidy-ups A Hedge Trimming +6 Fence Repairs/Painting 06 Garden sitting whilst you are away Fully public liability insurance Call for a free estimate or guide to costs Tel/Fax: 01793 850595 Mobile: 07919 543733

Chelworth Landscapes hcuring & GardenMabuenance • Fencing and gates Cfoseboard trellis, panels. picket. chainlink. security etc • Landscaping Shingle. paving, water features. turfing and planting • Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc For free quotation phone (01793) 750390 4 , v v w.chelworthluaulrcu 1rs.ro.uk

ACER PAVING Specialist paving & landscaping contractors • Driveways • Patios • Fencing • Decking • Pergolas • Walling Quality work and innovative ideas 01793 752373 or 07802 752576 isittour comprehensive website www.acerpaving.co . 0

The Link Magazine • May 2005 39

Bidding for better bogs Throughout the winter children from schools across the town were asked to write to outgoing South Swindon MP Julia Drown explaining how their school toilets could be improved as part of the national Better Bogs campaign. Four entries from .:a_ Shaw Ridge Primary School and two from Wroughton Infants were selected to win £100 for their schools donated by Cannon Hygiene based at Groundwell. Julia said, "I was really impressed by the effort the youngsters made to tell me how their school toilets could be made better, and there were some fantastic illusNo boys allowed in the ladies. Julia Drown with Ann trations, which included Snelgrove, rear right, with Shaw Ridge headteacher scent machines and boy Sally Cowell, and winners Neil Ash, James Waddell, alarms. Hannah Hewson and Laura Wall "The fun of the campaign has made the serious point formance in class. that children deserve good qual- "Ensuring better toilets is a step ity, clean facilities. There are some to tackling the issues behind why who won't go to the toilet at school children are reluctant to use the and it causes a great deal of dis- loos at school." tress. It effects their mental wellThe winning entries will be being, their health and also per- judged in a national competition.

Tops for holiday care Trio Coolkids Holiday Club at Tregoze Primary School provides high quality care, and that's officially recognised by Aiming High, the organisation that monitors the delivery of children's care for 6 to 16 year olds.

W. BEVAN Complete Landscape Services From survey to completion - make your dream garden a reality • Patios designed, laid and repaired • Fencing and fence repairs • Decking, gazebos, etc. • Turf supplied and laid • Water features installed • Trees pruned & pollarded, hedges cut, roots removed etc. • Low maintenance garden a speciality Call for a free no obligation quote,

,ob amity Busing All types of fencing installed +w Full patio/decking service Made to measure gates All pressure treated timbers Help/advice on all fencing & landscape matters

01793 813603

References or 078997 41804 available

Free estimates on 01793 855800 PERFECTION IS OUR FINISH

THE TIMBER DECKING, COMPANY

LTD

Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Graydon, Swindon

www.limberdeckingco.co.uk The complete TIMBER DECKING Specialist

O Easy Assemble Customised Kits O Tanalised Timber O Pergolas, Arbours & Gazebos O Decorative Aggregates O Ornamental Fencing 6 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon. Tel: 01793 488899 Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm;

® I-

Saturday 9am - 5pm

Elaine Johnson, centre, with staff and children of Trio at Tregoze The ten year old club was the first in Wiltshire to achieve Level 2 and are again the first to reach the coveted Level 3. A portfolio of work was assessed and a visit made to meet children, parents and staff. The Level 3 recommendation also had to go before a panel to confirm whether the club qualified. Club manager Elaine Johnson

said, "it's nice that our effort to strive for excellence in child care is recognised." To book a place for half term or the summer holiday, call Trio on 849621.

Gardens wanted Show off your talents in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer on 25 and/or 26 June For details call Lesley Dredge on 772869.

EE" _AVERY

MP TIT E ICES `EN

Annual Plant Sale Saturday 14 May 1 Oam - 12 noon Swindon Fuchsia and Pelargonium Society Western Community Centre Somerset Road, Cheney Manor Details from Mr Bloor on 873426

7 DAYS BUI:bING MATERIALS

a sp`'

Side of Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Ind Est, Swindon. Tel: 484455

S Property Seruites SERVICES

Nome & Garden Improvements

DESIGN & INSTALLATION TO THE HIGHEST SPECIFICATIONS FULLY FITTED BATHROOMS FULLY FITTED KITCHENS

GARAGE CONVERSIONS ELECTRICS / LIGHTING PLASTERING / DRY LINING CERAMIC WALL! FLOOR TILING GENERAI. MAINTENANCE

Tel/Fax: 01793 527420 Mobile: 07767 471008 E-mai I: bat hroornsys@aol.com Visit our n ebsite on:

www.bathroomandheatingse rv ices.com In association with Quality

Building

Solutions

General carpentry Fitted kitchens/bedrooms Laminate flooring Wall/floor tiling Block paving • Patios Fencing • Turfing Decking Guttering/fascia 49 Twineham Road, Redhouse, Swind

Office: 01793 704309 Mobile: 07775 948833

Dave Rogers

ADRIAN AMOS LTD General Domestic Contractor

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL

FR1:1? SURVEY NO 1)1:POSIrI'

For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393

Work it out for yourself

BASSETI SKIPS LTD If all that clutter is getting you down call Bassett Skips for the best prices in town.

For a free quote

e-mail: rapers&tlnyworla.co.

Come and see us

• Kitchens/ Bathrooms • Tiling • Plumbing Minor Electrics

• Carpentry

Call Adrian on 07775 646299 or 01793 700025 or email: info@AAmos.co.uk

NE^f (

MR. ELECTRIC

LOCAL

4 No call out or ove rt ime charges :• 24 Hour Emergency Service 4 Electrical Repairs & Upgrades • Inspection & Testing 4 / Rewiring & Ex tr a points •:• Outdoor Lighting & Sockets IOY4 AR

i Elec tr ic Showers & Heating GUARANTEE v ADT Approved Dis tr ibutors 1 4 Free quotations & advice >• Friendly dependable service v Major credit cards accepted • 4 National Compa ns

Tel: 01793 729247 0800 7311606 (24hr) www.nn • -elect ric.co.uk 'lie have the poser

Mobile: 07811 383747 or 07900 584175

Office: 01793 877883 ........he bG2_ / _ " _

„Inwe^ar„;

d FENSA

Li WILSON BRICKWORK Specialising in smaller works

NOW

mul,r thittg, better..

Bray do n

Plumbing & Heating -- Bathroom installation Heating systems Boilers repaired & serviced

O 2, 4 and 6 tonne with drop down doors for easy loading

Radiators moved and replaced

O No hidden costs or charges

Appliance installation

01793 84 89 51

= at West Swindon _ ri ik i • a Shopping Centre to ^ ^, n - 1 202o2Ma 20thh to 23rd Ma 31 May & 1 June

No job too small, whatever your requirement. Ring for no obligation quote

•

• Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance

20' fascia board fitted £ 60 20' fascia & gutter fitted £135 20 fascia, soffit & gutter £205 20' fascia & soffit £130 (prices correct at time of publication)

Your caring family business No Obligation • No Pressure • No Gimmicks!

• Decorating

€c aced Deeo'rom

Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including:

Windows, Doors & Conservatories

• Brickwork • Plastering

And all other,o/umbing works

For a free estimate or advice call Jamie: 07748 195677 Office: 01793 849452

• General property maintenance • Brickwork/maintenance • Blockwork • Extensions/parches • Garden walls/patios • Interior 6 exterior decoration • Tiling - walls 6. floors • Free no obligation quotation • Other works arranged • Insured • No job too small

Tel/Fax: 01793 729269 Mobile: 07764 936419 Email: brickwork@fsmail.net

D & L Blinds Rollers • Verticals • Venetians Pleated Blinds • VELUX® Conservatory Blinds QUALITY BLINDS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES Fast and reliable service Evenings & weekends no problem All blinds fitted free Choose from a wide range of fabrics front the comfort of your own home Contact Paul on 01793 619428 FREE QUOTES NO OBLIGATION

Unique Services • CARPETS • WOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL • UNDERLAY • ACCESSORIES No gimmicks, no sales, no promotions

UST THE RIGHT PRICE AND THE TRUE VALUE from the start Personal estimating service - no obligation or charge Fitting service by qualified & professional fitters

01793 480777 or 07834 685871 6 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon SN1 4AB

Complete Kitchens, Bedrooms, Bathrooms Plumbing & Heating Specialists Peter Foyle Tim Harris Mobile: 07736 740267 Mobile: 07788 776000

Telephone: (0 1793) 825456

a Ashdown Electrical & Plumbing Services

KLASS

CONSTRUCTION

01793 349468 07979 267757

^iijj

From complete house renovation to replacing tap washers. no job too small

EXTENSIONS CONSERVATORIES PORCHES WINDOWS & DOORS ROOFING FASCIA, SOFFIT AND GUTTERING

FOIl THE FINAL TOUCH OF KLASS CALL: 01793 613388

•

Property Maintenance

♦ Kitchens and Bathrooms fitted

• Electrical - extra sockets, rewires, fuse boards, security lighting, showers

• Plumbing - bathroom suites, showers garden taps, appliance installation

• Floors and Walls - ceramic tiling and laminates Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote

PLUMBING & HEATING Professional & Reliable

PREMIER BUILDERS

• Specialists in full heating systems and heating conversions • Boiler replacements • Gas and oil-fired appliances • Cylinders, showers, tanks • Full bathroom suites, tiling & electrics • No job too small

Brickwork & Roofing Specialists

• Free quotations

Call Craig Gavin 01793 321326 or 07880 735405

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories

(SWINDON LTD) est. 1989

Walling • Extensions • Alterations • Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work. Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. No job too small'.

Tel: 01793-871032 Mobile: 0795 0017584 Unit 14a, Turnpike. Blunsdon

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

PLASTERING & PLUMBING SERVICES Small patches to whole houses - internal & external All plumbing work undertaken For free no obligation quotes, contact Paul or Ian 01793 828925

Mob. 07966 314276 or 01793 879190

Mob. 07961 432508

PH L PLUMBING & DIY KITCHEN, BATHROOMS

TILING, DRIPPING TAPS TO LAMINATE FLOORING HOME: 01193 615321 MOBILE: 07715 842241

Classic Kitchens

A/)Pi HOME I MPROVEMENTS All your needs in one number Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics, Painting, Decorating, Carpentry, Extensions/Renovations and

much more

Call Dave for further details or a free quotation Mobile: 07778 207977

COMPLETE PROPERTY SERVICES

(Formerly Merlin Property Services)

+ Bathrooms Kitchens Renovations Jr Alterations + Industrial maintenance

Plumbing : Electrical • UPVC Doors & Windows Carpentry • Floor & wall tiling Painting & decorating

Mobile: 07785 522377 Tel: 01793 616170

Large variety of kitchen styles designed especially for you Call James on 872343 or 07766 863431

Steve George

House Medic

for Bathrooms and Kitchens Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364 Complete bathrooms fitted

Howdens kitchens fitted

• Building work

• Free survery

• Plastering

• Building work

• Tiling

• Plastering

• Electrics

Tiling & Worktops

• Plumbing

Electrics & Plumbing

• Furniture

Wooden flooring

28 years experienced tradesman

APPROVED

Building, • Electric showers • Power showers • Replacementtaps • Exchange suites • En-suites • Tiling • Towel rails • Shower Trays And Cubicles • Complete Bathroom Makeovers • Insurance Work Undertaken

Maintenance &Repairs

• GARAGE CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS • INTERNAL ALTERATIONS • REFURBISHMENTS

• MAINTENANCE WORK • INSURANCE WORK

Tel: 01793 770088 Mobile: 07710 150

644,1

THE RIGHT PRESCRIPTION FORA HEALTHIER HOME

fr' 1

FF1:

BATHROOMS

ire

bathrooms

general plumbing Complete Bathroom Installation • PLUMBING • TILING • ELECTRICS • EN SUITES

FREE QUOTATIONS

01793 431211 or 07771 998924 em ail: shirebathrooms@aol.com

DECORATO R

Paul Comer Professional interior/exterior

painter and decorator Personal one-to-one service Clean, reliable, quality work - no job too small For free quote call Paul on

0777 5840236

T l

M.D. ELECTRICAL SERVICES SOCKETS AND Lr6HTIN6 TO SHOWERS AND RE- WIRES. FOR FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE, TEL

01793 495365 MOBILE 077438 74621

HOME MAINTENANCE G R SERVICES Tiling Interior and exterior painting and decorating Kitchen and bathroom installations Gardening/fencing/patios Roof repairs Fascias & guttering Friendly, reliable and competitive Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

BATHROOMS

Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics,

_ ^ ^

Free estimates

Tiling Walls & Floors

Also bathroom and kitchen installations Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361

01793 725232 07748 964433

DECORATOR

JAMES O'SULLIVAN Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating

For a professional finish telephone 07971347345 (nzob) or 616933

ELECTRICIAN

Painting & Decorating Interior & Exterior FOR FREE QUOTATIONS

CALL 01793

725699 OR 07734 779736

FLOORING 11

Contact Pat McHugh

Tel: 01793 521300 Mobile: 07802 500183

+r9c MASTER FITTER :::

Interior/Exterior Painting, wallpapering coving, dado rails and tiling No job too big or too small For a professional and friendly service call

F 01793 701394

or 07917 061717

HEATING & PLUMBII

.J.

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation

3 All gas appliances serviced, repaired & installed Warm air unit service, repair & installation > Landlord/moving house safety inspections O Bathroom suites installed and all other plumbing work undertaken O Central heating systems flushed (powerflush) Hot water systems descaled 3 Quote on request O 24 hour call out J Natural gas & LPG qualified

FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION

HOUSE/GARDEN

Specialists in high quality brickwork Domestic & commercial Extensions & renovations Property maintenance

GK DECORATORS

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet

MOBILE 07769 883717 TEL: 01 793 876029

- CITE REGISTERED

WHELAN KEVIN High Quality

ELECTRICAL â EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS a- SECURITY LIGHTING / FIRE ALARMS â GARDEN LIGHTING / OUTDOOR SOCKETS SHOWER AND COOKER INSTALLATION FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT COMPLETE RE-WIRING

BRICKLAYING CONTRACTORS

DECORATOR

SAFE & SHAW

SERVICES

Ps HUG H

DECORATOR

Wallpapering, Coving, Artexing Established 22 years

BRICKLA

Bathrooms & Kitchens

flooring all taken care of

All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed

}

BATHROOMS

Plumbing

or 321981 E LECTRICIA N

07970 865883 25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

I MAINTENANCE

O British Gas trained

Tel: 7224 49

Rug. 202t15

• Mob: 07956 410982

MAINTENANCE

D & G HOUSE & GARDEN MAINTENANCE

P^ GENERAL MAINTENANCE G^r SERVICES l

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 All garden work Concreting paths

Building Guttering and

Patio repairs Patio jet wash

fascia All carpentry

Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

Plumbing repairs

Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced ALL WORK GUARANTEED, FULLY INSURED

Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Handymen Call Andrew on 01793 820991 or 08456 444170 (calls charged at local rate)

• Reliable • Trustworthy • Affordable

All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved

• Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Quality service guaranteed Fully insured Special rates for senior citizens Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393 www.generalmaintenanceservices.co.u k Our rt'pu tation is huilt on I/our satis(nction

t!.

BUILDING SERVICES

Paul J hind Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing 8t building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807

DECORATOR '

CAR PENTRY

CARPENTRY

DFI Carpentry

CAEP1:IWTWI Fitted kitchens & bedrooms Wood and laminate flooring Loft conversions Doors & windows Stairs Specialising in shop fitting All carpentry work undertaken

Free no obligation 24 hour quotations

Contact Andy: 01793 729354 /07900 835116

I NSTALLED OR REPAIRED

YOUR LOCAL CHOICE

07968 757860

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

All aspects of plumbing

* External rendering * Plastering two coat * Re-skimming * Dry lining * Coving * New or repairs Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

Dave Ody For all your domestic & commercial requirements

Free quotes

boiler servicing and repairs,

Brian Jones Plastering Services

SVVI DOA- L GLO`JCT S2*ER CON,SERV TOQIES

Tel: 01793 882093

New fuse boards

bathroom and power showers

PLASTERING

Quality & Service

New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting

Central heating installations,

Reg:203455

FREE ESTIMATES

ELECTRICIAN

ROB HALL

01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Commercial

DOUBLE GLAZING

RJ PEARCE

For further details call Richard on

Domestic &

DOUBLE GLAZING

HEATING & PLUMBINGI

• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small

and decorating

Mobile: 07957 934536

HEATING & PLUMBING PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work

Painting

For details call Paul on 07932 013360 or 01793 812849

•

Interior/exterior painting & decorating • Wallpaper hanging • Tiling • Replacement skirtingboards coving, picture rails • Laminate flooring fitted • And other carpentry & building services No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily

0 Fitted bedrooms and kitchens O Replacement doors & staircases J Laminate floors Household repairs and general maintenance O Decking - supplied and fitted

Free no obligation quotes Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

W _SOWS, DOOR(CON SERVATORIE

DECORATOR

Tel: 01793 815254

Reg 187606

PLUMBING

For quality windows and doors Tel: 01793 331551 07775 621 764 / 07799 284998 rI1d 9%

See our advert on page 1

HEATING & PLUMBING

• Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers • Bathroom installations Reg. 128966 All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices

Heating & Plumbing

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

For gas central heating, bathrooms, showers and all other plumbing & heating work CALL 01793 522579 MOBILE: 07816 906437 matt mpsheating.co.uk sww.mpsheating.co.uk Reg 67416

I TILING

PLUMBING

Tow

30 years plumbing experience O Bathrooms O Cylinders O Radiators 0 Pumps O Tanks 0 Burst pipes O Taps etc O Showers All at competitive rates Call or e-mail Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439 E: towerplumbheat@aol.com

Mobile: 07885 543294

HEATING & PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating

General plumbing

No,-

24hr call out facility Tel: 01793 878609

GILES

services CERAMIC TILING

• Radiators • Pumps

FLOOR & WALL

• Tanks

SPECIALISTS

• Cylinders Free Quotes • Burst pipe Call Lee

• Taps • Washing machine installed A local service

on 0771 8102 921

Call Mike

o o '

0eG

Tel: 01793 435392

on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

SERVICE

AERIAL SERVICES

MAGIC SAT (European Satellite Specialists) You've tried the rest, now try the best, from aerials to motorised satellite systems. If we can't do it, nobody can. • Official satellite viewing cards • Free estimates • On call until 10pm 7 days a week • Free sport • Free movies • Free adult • All work guaranteed Tel: (01793) 706921 Mobile: 07765 22463

-, I

AERIAL SERVICES

Aerial & Television Services

CHRIS PAYNE

TV/FM/DAB aerials lam_ • Extra satellite points -Video & TV repairs • Freeview installation • Noticed Signal amplifiers •

interference No call out

lately? Tetra

charge

filters fitted

All work guaranteed Call Neil Provis on 01225 706379

or 07774 943 783

AERIALS & SATELLITE SYSTEMS Satellite TV Sky & digital terrestial Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

4 Storm damage SKY

Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 0111 6236415

BOOK-KEEPING

CA RPET CLEANIN G

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Can't face -doing the books after a hard day's work?

oi^ White%ra,, he Carpet &

IT-2-CJ•Com

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience.

Tel: 01793 700637

• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable You'll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from yotn local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 E mail: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com

IRO NING & DRY CLEANING

Work wear * Childrens wear * Leisure wear * Promotional wear Contact us: 0- 793 874092 07900 624517

01793 887883 / 07947 831378

contact@it-2-u.com

Pro-R.. - -

www.it-2-u.com

LJ-1Ironing Services

A premier ironing, dry cleanin .

E o DODDERY

Computer running slow? Need some advice? Looking to upgrade? • Equipment required? • Virus and Internet attack questions? • Wishing to backup?

IRONING

kX-press

MEET

PC Support straight to your door

Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

We are a well established door-to-door ironing service delivering professional finished results

handwashing & shi rt service Free collection and delivery (home or office) 24 hrs turnaround • Available 7 days a week One-off loads or regular collection • All work done to your requirements (hanging or folded)

z 3 3 3 3

Purpose equipped shop Professional team Independent quality checks Sensible flexible visiting times

email:

Call us on 608822

dd@brandongt.fsnet.co.uk

Tel: 01793 617200 07748 588210

SE CU RITY SYSTEMS

REMOVALS & STORAGE

ABBEY MOVE ^^.

V MO

First Class Removal & Storage Solutions • Quality removals & storage • Single items to full house moves • Complete packing service ' offered • Sales & supplies of packaging materials •Piano removal specialists • A free quotation • A fully insured service

0800 019 5037 www.abbeymove.co.uk

www.LHIroning.co.uk

SECURITY SYSTEMS

ssalb

Crown Security Burglar alarms Access controls CCTV • Fire alarms Installed, repaired, maintained

*SE security

• CCTV • Access Con trol & Intercoms • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Monitorine

24 hour monitoring for police response

For details call Doug Marshall on 433999

systems ltd

Expe rt Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers

•

ssaib

email:

SECTOR AIRPORT TRAVEL

1RPORTS Connect Ltd Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus Reliable travel for holiday makers

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

REMIER Established Same day, local service wherever possible

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

lectrics

30 years

Guaranteed repairs to all makes of domestic appliances Same day/next day service

1: 2000

Tel:01793 469300 COMPUTER SUPPORT'

`Consultancy ,

NEW PCs/Spares/Repairs Upgrades/Service/Support Internet & Network Solutions

Installation

= Jargon free advice & support

=i= Upgrades/repairs = All parts & labour guaranteed Flexible hours, inc. ere/weekends

Ma king IT work for you T: 01793 778 034 M: 07788 586 779 E: info@ringview.co.uk www.ringview.co.uk

sales@sigmacomputersolutions.co.uk

OVE N CLEANING

Creaseless Ironing Services

±1NCLEAN The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

Call Karen on 01793 822659 or 07843 690720

SELF STORAGE ]Veec Ex, tra Storage?

Personal or Business Self Storage at Latton (just off A419) For the lowest prices in the area, call Pauline May or Alex Oram on 01793 759311 e: info@waterparkstorage.com www.waterparkstorage.com

'For alT your storage needs

Why go anywhere else? When we'll come to you..... = Free home & business visits

Support

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363

One-off, weekly, fortnightly or simply whenever! Free pick up and delivery back to your door the next day. All items delivered on hangers and wrapped in cellophane Guaranteed animal and smoke free environment

COMPUTER SUPPORT PC Repairs

COMPUTER SOLUTIONS

IRONING

brands

• Guaranteed

^ (

repairs

• Same day servic e

A SUDS

DRAINS

Corn Master's

11 SIGMA

For friendly EXPERT advice & PROMPT on-site service

Most leading

No call out charge

Competitive prices

COMPUTER SUPPORT

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0798 002 5590

REMOVALS

Single items moved anywhere in Swindon for £15

Long/short distance

*. Free home estimates No call out charge All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

REMOVALS & STORAGE ^

WHITE VAN MAN

We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs, extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

CCTV surveys High pressure jetting Pipe relining Locally based - competitive rates 24 hour call out

Tel: 01793 435392

Disposal of unwanted items House clearance

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

c0G BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST

• No call out charge

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362

TV & VIDEO REPAIRS

o o ^

7 Darfo [

Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07780 946267

UPHOLSTERY

BROWNS UPHOLSTERY SERVICES for all your upholstery requirements Using traditional methods and materials or slightly more modern techniques if required.

Call BROWNS for free friendly advice Tel: 01793 886486 Mobile: 07780 950797

Wfli At 'AI

TEL: 01793 77288a

THE MAN WITH A VAN (Est 1993) 24hrs - 7 days a week Single items to a full house 8 different size vehicles Disposal of unwanted items

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444 Email: ashgroupl @btinternet.com

WINDOW CLEANING

By Crystalline Local, reliable, QUALITY service Windows, frames and doors cleaned to a very high standard Internal cleaning undertaken if required Call Martin on 01793 349102 or 07974 198083

Make your windows shine with Crystalline

46 The Link Magazine • May 2005 0-ijRDQ/.,

9 9

^F9S

Quality mobile 'S hairdressing by an y experienced stylist

HAIRCM'

For free advice or appointment call JACQUI on 01793 327563 or 07905 676778

SPANISH APARTMENT - COSTA BLANCA Swimming pool Sleeps up to 6 people Reasonable rates. Call 01793 700253 or visit: www.sDain-holidav-aQartment.co.uk

Litter pickers try to keep Peatmoor Lagoon pristine Some twenty families and individuals turned out on Easter Monday for the annual litter pick around the lagoon in an attempt to keep the area free of rubbish. Bags were quickly filled with tic bottles, chip pathe detritus of the unthinking peo- pers and shopping ple who seem happy that a pleas- bags. "It's very disap -. ant area should be defaced by dis_ '^'" "''•' carded sweet wrappers, cans, plas- pointing that there are people who seem not to care egistered Childminder about their surroundings," said orFlexible, friendly, negotiable rates ganiser Suzanne 8 years experience. Bullimore." Learn and play Monday to Friday,

Sam to 9pm. School drop-offs and pick-ups. Also weekends & late evenings Call 07957 166529 or 871466

Right, the McPhees of

Peatmoor, helping to keep the area tidy

LETTERS TO THE LINK

9.D.

2.1 pholstery

Repairs & Recovering

Antique and Modern Large range of fabrics

Call 871808 for competitive priceses

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

H ZRIEW1 STHRT Domestic Cleaning Services • Regular weekly cleans • Fortnightly cleans • One-off Spring cleans Call Christine on (01793) 701413 (9am - 5pm) Mob: 07951 184424

DISC SERVICE We transfer anything onto DVD Disc - Cine Film, Video tape, Wedding Photos

WE MAKE MOVIE CLIPS OF YOUR CHILD GROWING UP Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758

Should be sent to the address on page 4 by 10th of the month

Bagged doggy doo doo is still an environmental mess From Marie Spurrett, St Andrew's Ridge

To the people who pick up their dog mess, bag it up and throw it under the bushes on the path leading from Saltzgitter Drive to Lady Lane— you know who you are. I was appalled to walk down the path, approx 150 yards, to find that there were 16 bags of dog mess. Whoever is taking the trouble to pick up their poo, bagging it up and then discarding it in the bushes is still littering. Please take it home or walk 30 or so yards and put it in the nearby dog mess bin,

There are children who like to play along the pathway, some still find nasty dog presents that have not been picked up on the path and the grass verge. If you have a dog, please clear up properly after it and not let our area get bogged down with their droppings. I have already been in contact with the Swindon Council Dog Warden and Environmental Health Officer who will be patrolling the area to try and find out who is doing this.

F^KINGD® N^

LSTEkY

Buy direct from your local manufacturer and save money At Faringdon Upholstery we manufacture top quality upholstery supplied direct to the public. We make your furniture the way you want it, with thousands of fabrics to choose from

* Craftsman built

Pon't settle for * All suites fully guaranteed mass produced when you can *All suites covered in have made-toyour own choice of fabric measure for the * Solid wood frames same price! * Made to measure Come and * Re - upholstery ee our wide service

* Curtains

01367

241855

selection of suites today

The Link Magazine â€˘ May 2005 47

Summer Fete with a seaside theme Saturday 21 May, 12noon to 3pm Bridlewood Primary School, Lady Lane, Redhouse Fancy dress competition, stalls, Hreod Steel Band, bouncy castle, penalty competition. refreshments and bar

Search for Brownie helpers

Models needed Swindon's Mela is always a riot of fun and colour and organisers are looking for people with charisma, flair and a taste for good clothes to make the fashion show a display of Asian style to remem-

Children and staff at Freshbrook School took to the catwalk at the end of March in aid of school funds. Organised by mum of many, Sue Povey, and her daughter Charlie, in association with Sargeo Kids, the event raised ÂŁ280.

By-pass plans on show weekly The Highways Agency have opened a Public Information Centre to show off the plans for the A419 Blunsdon bypass and the fly-over proposals to improve traffic flow at the Commonhead junction, close to the Great Western Hospital. Members of the project team will be on hand every Wednesday, 10am to 6pm, to answer questions and discuss concerns at Durban House, Lady Lane, Blunsdon. The plans show the proposed developements and there is three dimensional computer model will be available to view. For information at other times, contact Howard Allbrook on 07717 715549 or Jayne Arberry at the Highways Agency on 0117 3728043.

building with people Sunday services are at I Oam & 6.30pm For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org

or visit: www.freshbook.org the gift of God is Eternal Life" (Ronians 6 i'23)

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches All Saints', Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze Toothill Church; Westlea Church

Sue and Charlie with some of the models

As part of Adult Learner's Week, Swindon Learning Ambassadors are organising a Have-a-Go-Day on Friday 27 May, 2pm to 4pm at Drove School in the town centre. Tutors will be demonstrating and getting people involved in Bollywood dancing, Tai Chi, Rangoli art, Egyptian dance, different styles of cooking, guitar and computer activities. For details call Carol Willis on 529009.

`'/

ber.

There are no height restrictions The Lydiard Millicent Rainbows are looking for another helper to restart a brownie unit for 7 to 10 year olds so that the girls can progress. and the show is open to both men An experienced leader is keen to help out, but needs two adult and women of all ages. Weekly rehearsals in the town centre behelpers. No experience is needed, just lots of enthusiasm. For details call Jo Sully on 641966 or mail: Jo@thesullys.freeserve gin in May. To take part in one of the high.co.uk lights of the Swindon Mela, call Sushma Patel on 870226, weekdays, or mail: facechoice@yahoo Cash through .co.uk fashion

Try out something new

o1Evang,/,. O Worsley Road

'For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 770568 partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com

Gt0

James Butcher Housing Association provides a wide range of quality, affordable homes for rent or purchase in central southern England. We currently hold a waiting list for our two rented sheltered housing schemes in Swindon and hold a joint waiting list with the local authority for all other properties in Swindon.

Tel: 01672 515622 or email enquiries@jbha.co.uk , quoting reference marl/link for more information.

James Butcher Housing Association Providing accommodation throughout the central and south of England. A charity, incorporated as an Industrial and Provident Society No, 16602 R.

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VATiIIII[I

Already in use are the Recycling Boxes for household recycleable items and Green Bags for garden waste.

Y•y^i

Gard&''

waste

first collection early June. See the leaflet supplied with your bin for collection details and information about use.

sesacy Fist

^i' ,.

^► recycle