west Swindon's
Magazine
EXPRESS CYCLE SPECIALIST
&fl'C 1C< & nvyv,q.L PR9C PROM-9&
,1
No. 116 • November 1991 • Circulation 10,500
96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon
• (0793) 534907 & 513705
Bonfire and Firework displays In the West Friday 1 November
Saturday 2 November
Tuesday 5 November
Toothill Farm Centre Bodiam Drive Toothill 6pm. Free
Events Field, Lydiard Park, off Hook Street
Westlea School Langstone Way Westlea
(Donations gratefully received) Ghouls, ghosts, dance performance by local youngsters. Bring your guys for the fire, refreshments
Gates open 6pm, Bonfire 6.30pm, Fireworks 7pm Adults £1, Children 50p. Refreshments (Note: This event has been moved from Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall as publicised in the October Link magazine) Organised by 1st Purton & Lydiard Scouts
Free half term bonfire workshop
6pm - 7pm Guy competition Refreshments Tickets £1, Children 60p on the gate
Free pre-school play with fire
Children have the chance to get into the spirit of bonfire night (with leftovers from Halloween) at a Haunted House Workshop, all afternoon on Friday 1st November, starting at 1230pm. Marie Brett from Swindon's Town Hall Dance Studios is organising a craft and dance workshop at Toothfll Farm Centre, Bodia m Drive. Youngsters will be making lanterns, bats, gouts and ghosties, and some will be working on a dance to be performed in front of the crowds at the bonfire at the farm during the evening. The workshops are entirely free and youngsters should just turn up ready to make and create.
Playscheme seasonal fun West Swindon's free playscheme - WASPS - joined in with the spirit of Halloween and Guy Fawkes with a week of half term activities for 5 to 12 year olds at Toothill Farm starting 28 October. Pictured below, some of the youngsters with their indoor bonfire sculpture, rockets and witches hats
The new FOCUS committee advertising their fire works hop,from left, Sue Sharpe, Chris Woodward, Audrey Hutchinson, Maria Bastin, Stephanie Ahmed, Kate Bason, Glynys Guntripp, Val Jordan Under Fives are getting in on the seasonal celebrations with their own Guy Fawkes event on Tuesday 5 November. The West Swindon Focus on Under5s is organising Fire Workshop in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. There will be red and orange playdough, model making, a story cornerand a chance for children and parents to help make a bonfire collage and a giant
rocket. It's entirely free! Of course there will be a fire safety display and Wiltshire Fire Brigade's Welephant will be visiting the workshop to get the safety message across. There will be refreshments and a raffle at the workshop which takes place between lOam and midday. • New Focus committee looks forward to future events - page 3.
Putting some balance into the education arguement Last month we featured exam result and comments from the headteachers of Bradon Forest, Greendown and Ridgeway Schools, the three secondary schools designated to receive West Swindon children. Regrettably, Greendown was the brunt of sensationalist and unfair reporting in the local evening paper during October. On pages 14 and 15 the head, staff and ex-students of Greendown put the record straight.
2
Make a dedication on BBC Wiltshire Sound
Countrywide Property Management Residential Letting Agents PROPERTIES IN THIS AREA URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR PROCEEDABLE APPLICANTS
Contact Paula Grant Tel: 613459
HAIR REMOVAL BY THE ZAHRA METHOD SUGARING
Banish all unwanted hair Book an appointment with DOREEN your full-time local QUAIIFIED ZAHRA PRACTITIONER In the PRIVACY of her spacious house and her well-fitted treatment room you can relax and enjoy Doreen treating you in comfort.
RING DOREEN NOW SWINDON 876590
............. . .
: ertisem_
Why wait a long time to have your hair cut when you can visit TREVOR at his new shop?
OLD TOWN BARBERS 77 Victoria Road, Old Town (Next to paper shop) Tel: 421712
ERMIN WINDOWS
For conservatories and windows in uPVC or aluminium with hardwood surround
..............
.
The Link magazine is getting together with BBC Wiltshire Sound to make it easy for you to make a record dedication to someone special in your life. On page 21 you'll find a form to send into the Chris Highton Sunday Show which is broadcast between 1 Oam and 12 noon. Fill in the details and send it to Chris and every time he reads out a dedication using a Link magazineform, he'll mention where it came from. Right, Chris Highton himself
All out for children in need Get ready for Friday 22 November. The new BBC Children In Need fundraisers pack is out and is ready to help you organise a safe, legal and totally wacky event for a good cause. In the pack you'll got a lettersigned by Terry Wogan, a balloon, posters to help you publicise what you're organising and a helpful leaflet answering some of the questions you might have about fundraising. In Wiltshire ÂŁ183,000 was raised last year to contribute to a national total of nearly 1 million, so whether its Apple bobbingorZZZ sponsored sleeping, join in the fun and help break through the target. The packs are available by calling 512715. To get local publicity for your event, call Shirley Ludford at BBC Wiltshire Sound on 513626 or send details to her at Broadcasting House, Swindon SNI 3RW.
Carnival time in the west Simon Harlow would like to organise a celebration of West Swindon, its people, its industry and its community activity. The best way to get the message across could be to hold a carnival with floats and street parades, where all community groups and organisations and the different industries in West Swindon get together on something spectacular!! This event could happen next spring or summer. Simon is interested, are you? Contacts him at the Community Suite at the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234.
fIilMk Mu% 1$
Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook, Swindon Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Tel: (0793) 872282 Advertising Sales: Elizabeth Wood Tel: 871793 Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly. Copy date for December edition: 20 November
"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."
Contents 4 Toothill 6 Freshbrook & Grange Park Westlea 8 Shaw 9 10 Local Lives 11 At Your Library 12 Recreation 13 Arts Scene Education Matters 14 15 - 23 News and Views
The December edition will be published on 29 November The contents of The Link are protected by copywright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority. Call Brian Smith
SWINDON 824419 87a Ermin Street, Stratton St. Margaret Swindon.
3
Fun year for under fives promised The next year looks as if its going to be a fun time for pre-school children, now that the new West Swindon Focus on Under 5s Committee is getting organised. In the past the group has organised play workshops and the annual sunimer festival. The new committee, elected in September to build on the past four years of fun for under fives, is organising its first event, a fire workshop, on 5 November and there will be more to follow. Focus chairwoman Audrey Hutchinson from Freshbrook said she was pleased that more people were coining forward to help out. "A few of us put our names forward to organise future events, but we have given ourselves until Christ-
mas to see if we get the backing of parents. The word is spreading with the help of The Link and I hope we will soon be able to think further ahead to next summer's festival." Kate Bason from Peatmoor said she had read about the Focus group in the magazine. "A lot of parents are willing to take, but there has to be give as well. I felt I could offer some help," she said. The next event planned is a Christmas Disco on Tuesday 17 December at the Link Centre. Anybody who would like to join the Focus on Under Fives committee, or could offer help with organising a future event, can leave a message at the Link Centre community suite on 871212 ext 234.
Reader survey results A second readers survey was published in the June edition of The Link which attracted 219 responses. We've analysed them and here is a brief breakdown of the results. We all know West Swindon is a cosmopolitan place, but of our respondents, well over half (148) have moved to the area within the last five years, 64 from other parts of Swindon and 78 from every area of Britain, and abroad including Italy, France, Austria, Australia and Gibralta. Although we receive many, many positive comments, we were particularly interested to know if the magazine is satisfying your need for information about West Swindon. 83% said they find out about what's going on in the area from The Link and 79.5% of respondents said they read all of it, whilst 18% said they read most of it and 2% said they never read it. Encouragingly 88.1% said they regularly use Link magazine advertisers. Reader's shopping patterns was our other main interest. 63% said they use Swindon for their non-food shopping and 37% went out of the town. For food, 40.6% visit ASDA at the West Swindon Centre, 46.6% go to Sainsbury's Bridgemead and 12.8% shop at other superstores or local shopping areas.
Looking further afield Thamesdown Borough Council has produced an interesting booklet looking back over ten years in Borough's development from 1981 to 1990. Called Thamesdown Trends, it provides a wealth of statistics on population growth, housing, work patterns, social issues, leisure and the environment. Picking out a few aspects of particular interest to West Swindon,during the eighties, FreshbrookWa rd (including Grange Park) saw a population growth of 267.3%, from 2,550 people to 9,367. In Toothill Ward (including Westlea, Shaw and Sparcells), the population grew by a modest 157.7%, from 5,506 to 14,189. This expansion is mirrored in the number of households. In Freshbrook there was a massive 305.3% growth (920 to 3,729) and in Toothill, 184.2% growth (1,987 to 5,648). Thamesdown Trends is available in the library and from the Corporate Policy and Research Unit at Thamesdown, tel. 526261 ext 4090.
Bargains for Christmas at Link Centre markets Sat 16 Nov Charity market Stalls arranged by community groups Bric-a-brac, crafts cakes jumble lOam 2pm
Sat 23rd Nov Craft Fair. Christmas gifts made by craftspeople 1Oam 4pm
LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT? C,
il CI CLEE
V, The lively social club for unattached people 30+. Low cost, lots of fun. Tel: Dave Leggett 723691 Caroline Selwood 873348 Dave O'Brian 431772
GOGG LEBOX Specialists in video and TV repairs Free home estimates all work guaranteed Service from 8am 9F-'m -
NO CALL OUT CHARGE Tel: Swindon 813485
SEE WHAT YOU RE MISSING ON sr!:~
114â‚Ź
IMPS005 TM
ONE WITH SWINDON
CABLE
Telephone 615601 now for more details or alternatively call into our showroom in Edgeware Road (opposite the rear entrance to Woolworths). 1991 2i
*5.J&
TOOTH ILL
4
RALPH PALMER PHARMACY
Exclusive: Betting shop planned for Toothill Centre
A controversial plan to let the empty vigorously to shop owners Thamesshop unit at Toothill Village Centre down Council against a bid by a as a book makers has been revealed chain of betting shops for one of the by local councillor Ricky Midwinter. three units. Coun Midwinter, as reported in Ten years ago, shortly before construction of the village centre was The Link then, fought against the 3 Deerhurst Way completed, local people protested plan on the grounds that there were Toothill uses of greater benefit to the community. He has said he willobject to Hours of Opening: the new proposal on the same Whatever you fitness level, age, sex Mon - Fri grounds. or size Just turn up for an hour of "Planningpermissionhas already 9a.m. - p.m. fitness and fun Toothill Community 230p.m. - 6p.m. Centre. ÂŁ240 7pm 8pm Tues. Telephone: 512063 7.30pm - 830pm Thurs. per person Toothill's doctor Kandy Kandiah and pharmacist Ralph Palmer have been given five year leases on the premises following massive protests from Toothill people. Coun Ricky Midwinter called for support from local people in an exclusive story revealing that eviction notices had been issued, on the front page of last months Link magazine. Within five days he had received Hours of Business 27 telephone calls and 7 letters from 6 -1130am Sunday people expressing appreciation of Closed all day Monday the services and offering support to 5 -1130pm Tuesday Wednesday 12 - 145pm 5 - 1130pm Christmas Bazaar Thursday 12 - 145pm 5- 1130pm Sat. 23 November 2pm Friday 12 - 145pm 5 - 1200am Toothill Church Saturday 12 - 200pm 5 - 1200am Father Christmas Grotto, Fancy OPEN ALL BANK HOLIDAYS (MONDAY) dress competitions, Games, Face Painting, Stalls, Sideshows, Guessing Games, Children's Stall (no grown-ups allowed) Teas, Coffees, Cakes, Organ music requests Come and enjoy yourselves and help your local Church
GET FIT
been applied for, but with only three shop units, I'm sure local people can think of a use needed by the community at large. What about another vegetable shop, or perhaps a laundrette? Is there an entrepreneur out there who could start a service which will benefit a wide range of people?" Coun Midwinter would like to hear local views. He can be contacted on 873537.
Medical services saved
Toothill Chinese Kitchen English Food and Fish & Chips Special Chinese Food TakeAway Menu
Tel: 487055
FIE CRfTf DRIVEWAYS
Pattern stamped concrete in natural stone colours for paths, patios & driveways
Christmas Bazaar & Jumble Sale Sat. 23 November, 2.15pm Toothill Community Centre
a campaign to stop the evictions. However the vote on Thamesdown Council's ruling Labour Group of 11 in favour of retaining the doctor and pharmacist and 10 against was close. Coun Midwintersaid he was very pleased with the result, "It was a great response from local people and thanks to The Link for getting the message across." He added that the Labour Group had confirmed the principle of providing services as well as housing.
Dancing for cash Toothill's Jack and Jill Toddler Group raised ÂŁ120 towards theirown Christmas party at a sponsored dance on 15 October. The group has twenty members and meets at the Toothill Farm Centre. New parents are always welcome. For more information, telephone Jenny Piatek on 616432 or Sandra Gardiner on 481199. Below: Dancing in fancy dress, Zoe Sowden, Michelle Bird, Anthony Wood, Rebecca Ruddlesten
Stalls, tombola, white elephant, nearly new, jumble In aid of West Swindon Labour Party
Christmas Fete Sat 30 November 2pm Toothill Community Centre
Wide range of patterns and colours available Flagstone pattern being imprinted into fresh concrete
We lay it, you'll love it 'Phone for FREE colour brochure NOW 0793 - 851250 days 0793 - 855303 eves concrete with a difference!
Santa in his grotto, Christmas stalls, Raffle & lots more. Refreshments In aid of Toothill Tots Playgroup
Womens' group back on the farm The Toothill Multi-Cultural Wom- ismin the schoolyard and thedilemen's Group has returned to its meet- mas of mixed race marriage. ing place at Toothill Farm, Bodiam The group is friendly and supDrive after building works. portive and welcomes women from They have many exciting sessions the whole of Swindon. It meets on arranged in the run up to Christmas Tuesdays, from lOam to 12 noon, including Afro-Caribbean cookery and there is free childcare available. For more information, ring sessions, managing stress and confidence building, dealing with mc- Miriam Minty on 421821.
BADGER
PROPERTY SERVICES THE BRAMPTONS £109950 Lux. 3 double bed, detached, 2 receps. Tennis/ swimming club membership. Tel: 0793-610061
FEATHERWOOD £76,950 Hannick 3 bed detached with 2 receptions, utility, on massive corner plot. Tel: 0793-610061
& Commercial Road 0793 610061
I
RAMLEAZE £116,500 Exec. 4 bed detached, 2 receps, lux kitchen, utility, ensuite, landscaped gardens. Tel: 0793 - 610061
TOOTHILL £46,995 3 bed end terrace with full UPVC DIG & gas radiator central heating. Tel: 0793- 610061
WESTLEA £46,995 Mcleans 2 bed semi with gas C/H & ample parking. Tel: 0793- 610061
EASTLEAZE £74,995 Bradley built, 3 bed detached on large corner plot. Tel: 0793-610061
FRESHBROOK £49,500 Immaculate 2 bed semi with garage - UPVC DIG, gas C/H & modern kitchen. Tel: 0793-610061
FRESHBROOK £58,500 Modern 3 bed semi with garage. Tel: 0793 -610061
RAMLEAZE £59,995 Superb 3 bed Wimpey home on a large corner plot with space for a garage. Tel: 0793-610061
WESTLEA £56,995 3 bed semi in quiet cul do sac. Refitted kitchen/ bathroom, gas C/H & garage, Tel: 0793-610061
WESTLEA £46,995 Bradley 2 bed home with C/H, entrance porch & secluded rear garden. Tel: 0793- 610061
NINE ELMS £45,995 Massive 'Hanick' built 1 bed end terrace with large garden. Tel: 0793- 610061
GRANGE PARK £55,995 Bradley 3 bed semi with garage & gas C/H. Tel: 0793-610061
GRANGE PARK £81,995 Luxury 3 double bed detached featuring landscaped gardens. Tel: 0793 - 610061
Ombudsman Scheme YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. I ICS.JESEfl ('.H°flIT RROKER WRITTEN OIJOTATIONS ARE AVAILARLE ON REO1JFT
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK
6
COOKS T.V& VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE FREE Home Estimates Repairs by Qualified Engineers. Sales & Rentals All Work Guaranteed Tel: Swindon
825795
NO CALL OUT CHARGE
TAKE-AWAY
I!I
Sioux Indians take over Windmill Hill School Youngsters at Windmill Hill School were enthralled when experts in North Americanlndian folklore visited them during October. Year 5 has been studying Native Americans during the autumn term and the visit by 'American West', a family who travel around the country relating Indian history, culture, music and dance, was a high point. Hundreds of questions put to the family during the day were answered and manyrnyths and television stereotypes were overturned in the stories told about North American Indians.
Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm 215pm - 630pm Tuesday 9am -1 pm; 2.l5pm-5pm Saturday 9am - 12noon
Sioux Indian Dee Wicicala Cistinna and her son David Storm Dancer perform for Windmill Hill children
Children's Disco Monday 4 November 6.30pm - 8pm Open to children, 6- 12 years old, of Freshbrook and Grange Park residents at Freshbrook Community Centre 50p admission Organised by the Freshbrook Village Group
Table Top Sale Sat 16 November lOam - 12 noon Freshbrook School
ma
& HOME DELIVERY SERVICE
LINK READERS' AUTUMN SPECIAL BUY ANY SUPER SIZE PIZZA ON MONDAY, TUESDAY, OR WEDNESDAY AND GET THE SAME PIZZA REGULAR SIZE FREE! Just present this voucher which is valid until 30 November 1991 and have yourself a great deal. (Note: Only exchangeable at Show. Not to be used with any other offer/voucher)
P1 ZZARAMA FREE TO YOUR DOOR - WHY PAY MORE?
Tables ÂŁ5, book early. Limited places Tel: 873368 or 872450 Organised by Friends of Freshbrook School
Christmas Bazaar Freshbrook Community Centre Sat. 16 November, 1pm Admission 20p for adults and unaccompanied children. Attractions include Father Christmas, tombola, bric-a-brac stalls, toys and many more In aid of Rainbow Playgroup
Crafty Tea Friday 22 November 2.l5pm Windmill Hill School From cakes to lace. A variety of crafts made by local people. Ideal for that special gift or a treat for yourself. Refreshments & home made cakes. In aid of school funds
Christmas Bazaar Sat. 30 November, 2pm Freshbrook Community Centre Visit Santa Claus, lots of stalls Organised by the Freshbrook Village Group
Toddlers welcomed New members are welcomed at Freshbrook Mothers & Toddlers Group which meets in the Community Centre. Join in on Tuesday and Thursday lOam to 12 noon. Fun activities include painting, crayoning, playdough, stories etc. Also there's a special Christmas Bingo!! (for Mums) on 6 December. Pop inorcall Mrs Davis on 870331 or Mrs Sharp on 497109 for more details.
Village association saved Following TheLinkmagazine 'Crisis for residents' association' story last month, fifty people turned up at the Freshbrook Village Group annual general meeting on 9 October. The previous meeting in September had to be postponed because not enough people attended. There was a serious threat of the community centre closing down as there were not enough people present to elect a management committee. Terry Isles from Turnham Green, re-elected as chairman, said he was encouraged by the support for the Village Group. 'The meeting was usefulas we'veattracted several new people onto thecentre management committee and we can look forward to developing the centre. "For many the community centre has become just a place to rent rooms. They've forgotten that local people, volunteers are responsible for running the building. After all, everybody who lives in Freshbrook and GrangeParkis automaticallya memberof the VillageGmupassociation. It's as much their centre as mine. "Td like more projects which bring the community together like the revival of the Freshbrook Fun Day."
1
Mansfield Begbie Associates
MORTGAGE AND INSURANCE SERVICES
M B A sociates
'IN
CAN WE HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE? Whether you are moving house or thinking of re-mortgaging your present property, we may be able to help you. We have special discounts available NOW for First Time Buyers!! We can arrange fixed rate mortgages with the major Building Societies and Banks from as low as 9.30% with no deferral of interest We can also arrange new loans at a variable rate of 8.95% with no deferral of interest (discounted rate which is 2.5% below the base rate of 11.5% for 6 months), subject to status, e.g. a mortgage of £50,000 could cost £316.98 per month at 8.95%. There are NO HIDDEN CLAUSES! Please ring to find out how you can STABILISE your mortgage payments, i.e. keep your monthly payment level for as long as you require. You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs. Please ring us for your free advice and quotations.
WE CHARGE NO ARRANGEMENT FEES
Swindon 873369 (2 lines) We also cater for all other types of insurance Including Pensions, Savings, Motor, Commercial and Household policies.
JJ Appointed Representative of Cornhlll Insurance Marketing Group, ( members of which are members of l.eiutr® and I.M.R.O.) in relation to life assurance, pensions and unit trust business only REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. This information has been inserted to comply with the new Advertisement Regulations 1989 made under the Consumer Credit Act 1974.
WESTLEA
8
Big cheque launches after school club Westlea's After School Club is up and runningand would like to thank a local business for backing them. National Power has committed £10,000 to the club over two years and this is being matched by Thamesdown Council's Play Service. Presenting the first year's cheque of £5,000, National Power representative Dawn Szurek said the Westlea project had been selected because it's midway between company sites at Windmill Hill and Shaw. "We're new to the area and want to become integrated into the localcommunity. Thecompany has a majorcommitmentto its childcare
charter and the club could provide places for children of our parents." Sue Sheikh, chair of the management committee, said tears came to her eyes when the club first opened. "We started working on the project in 1989; it was such a sense of achievement that we'd done it. "National Power's support has been fantastic and we've also had so much support from Paul Ryan, Thamesdown's area play officer." The after school club meets on Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 3.20pm and 5.30pm. To find out more about places, drop into the new Westlea Social Hall at Westlea School.
Dawn Szurek presents Sue Shelkh and children at the Westlea After School Club with a cheque for £5,000
Christmas Fayre. Sat. 30 November. 2pm - 4pm Westlea School, Langstone Way Admission adults 30p, Children free Father Christmas & many stalls Organised by the Friends of Westlea School
Scouters wanted An opportunity exists to join an expanding team in West Swindon The 1st Westlea Scout Group have been growing for almost ten years, and are now looking for people to support the leadership team so that further expansion can take place. The ideal candidates will have
experience of working with people of all ages, enjoy a 'fun' outlook with a tendency toward the outdoors and the practical. If this is you, and you have time on your hands, then volunteer by contactingDaveorLesleyon874671, or Terry on 872640
Minister arrives at Westlea Church by Helen Lawrence of Westlea Church
A year ago we weren't looking fora minister - but God helped us recognise a good thing when we saw one! And now Rev Dick Grey has joined the Westlea Church leadership team. Dick was ordained as a minister in the United Reformed Church and inducted to Westlea School where the church meets each Sunday. The setting surprised some of the 130 guests, but it underlines the ploneeringaspect of church life in West Swindon. Dick was formally welcomed by Anglican, Baptist, Methodist and URC representatives as he joins the ecumenical team ministry of West Swindon. During the service, Dick talked of
his growth from nominal, churchgoing faith to the point when he got serious with God - and God called him to the ministry. The challenge given to Dick and the church centred on Jesus' amazing courtesy and servant spirit as he washed his disciples feet. Dick will serve people in Jesus' name, but he must also allow Jesus to serve him so that he will have something to offer to others. Behind every good man ... and Janet, Dick's wife is warmly welcomed. So too are their sons Alastair and Andrew, whose cello and trumpet added a special something to the music at the service. In fact it was a greatday allmund, and many thanks to all in our sister churches who helped to make it.
]BUDGET WINDOWS & DOORS QUALITY PRODUCTS + LOW OVERHEADS = REDUCED COST WE CAN USUALLY BEAT YOUR LOWEST QUOTE * WINDOWS * DOORS * CONSERVERVATORIES
* uPVC * HARDWOOD * SOFTWOOD
* NO JOB TOO SMALL * NO SALESMEN * NO DEPOSIT
OVER 17 YEARS EXPERIENCE. PHONE NOW FOR FREE ADVICE
(0793) 849159 (24 Hrs) TELEPHONE MOBILE (0850) 324609
SHAW
Church half way to buying motorbike Members of Shaw's Holy Trinity Church have set themelves the target of raising £1,700 to buy a cross country motorbike for a churchman fromTanzania who spent sometime with them in 1989. Raphael Mwita Akiri works in a parish a third the size of Wiltshire. Home is a one-roomed bungalow, wateris tobe found a mileawayand has to be thoroughly boiled before use, and travelling from one church to another on a bicycle takes hours on rough roads. A motorbike will help Raphael cover his parish more easily and Shaw Church has already raised £950, including £700 from a 50 mile mountain bike ride along the Ridgeway by Richard Sayer from Middleleaze on 19 October. Below: Raphael on the left with his bicycle in a Tanzanian village
Minders get together With all the publicity given to new nurseries opening and the demand by parents fornursery care, it is easy to ignore the fact that most childcare outside the home is provided by childminders. Now minders based in NineElms, Eastleaze, Shaw, Sparcells, and also Middleleaze, have formed a support group called NESS after the popular children's cartoon character. The group is looking for other childminders in thearea to join them and are also appealing for donations of toys. Coordinator Beverly Seabrook said, "Childminders do a very good job, but tend to be forgotten and can become very isolated because they don'twantto intrude on theirfriends with the children they're looking after. The aim of the group is to give child minders and children a chance to get together socially and help each other out. "Wealsoprovidecover if a minder is unwell or on holiday, and operate a vacancy list so that parents can quickly find out which childminders have places available."
Fun Day & Christmas Bazaar Sunday 24 November 2pm Shaw Ridge School
Appeal for toys and help A new under fives group opened on 29 October in one of West Swindon's more remote corners. But the new parent and toddler group serving Pea tmoor, Nine Elms and Shaw is desperate for donations of toys and play materials. The group is being organised by Jackie Wosniak who is looking for anything useful, from no longer wanted crayons and paper to draw on, to push or ride on toys. Money is in short supply, so any small donations will be welcomed. A playgroup for three to five year olds is planned also. Registration by Social Services will take about six months and in the meantime the group will have to raise lots of money to buy equipment and toys. She is writing to local companies to ask if there is anybody willing to undertake sponsored events on their behalf. Any readers who can help out are asked to contact Jackie. Offers of help, donations of toys and materials, and parents who would like to join the parent and toddler group, orjoin the playgroup committee can contact Jackie Wosniak on 873284.
Children's Games Room, Cake stall, White Elephant, Photos with Father Christmas Craft stalls & more. Refreshments Organised by Friends of Shaw Ridge School
Shaw W1 The Shaw WI members are a lively group of ladies of varied ages, who meet on the third MondayofeachmonthinShaw Village Community Centre, Ramleaze Drive, at 7.30pm. Each month we a have a talk or demonstration or both. The topics of which are both interesting and varied. Oh, and we have a few laughs as well! Please note our next meeting is on 18 November. We are also looking ahead to our Christmas party on 9 December. I understand there are some super plans afoot for that occasion. If it is half as enjoyable as last year's it is definitely something not to be missed! We will be delighted to welcome new members and visitors to our next and any meeting, age no barrier! So come and join us. You will not regret it. See you there! Further information available by telephone from Brenda Cars on 876057 or Pat Williams on 874937. Ellen Bailey writes:
Beverly added that the group holds evening get togethers, with talks on subjects like aromatherapy and first aid. Therearearound thirtyfour childminders in NFSS, looking after about 100 children. The group meets on the second Monday of the month at the Upper Shaw Farm Centre from lOam to 12 noon. Registered childminders,people who would like information on becoming a minder and parents in need of child care should just turn up at the meetings or they can contact Beverley Seabrook on 873943.
QUALITY SHEDS and FENCING Buy Direct from the Manufacturer.
D.l.Y.or Supply & Fit
CALL IN ON BULLDOG SHEDS and FENCING
I Black Dog Cottages Lyneham Road WOOT)DN BASSgFT Mr. Swindon. SN4 7FE
Sj. St. George
RON AHRENS BUILDER DECORATOR
MA (Oxon), FCA
Chartered Accountant
Specialising in all aspects of high quality building work especially decorating, carpentry & plastering. All work guaranteed. No job too small. Free estimates
Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon)
Telephoneelephone 0793848674 Evenings: 0793 854967
Specialist in financial services for small business 11 IA High Street Wootton Bassett, Swindon, Wilts
Telephone (0793) 848030
Here's an appetising offer
9
I LI"
'\ I Fresh, crisp crudités. Peppercorns' own Mega-Mixed Grill, served with chunky chips, peas, freshly-baked roll and butter. /4v ' Mouthwatering Spotted Dick with hot custard. A delicious 2-course meal, all for a deliciously low price! it
In Peppercorns Bar \_ ) c. A pint of traditional Morland Original Bitter or a generous glass of red or white House wine is just £1.00 between 5.00 and 7. OOpm daily (except Sundays). Call in fm a casual drink with fri ends in our lively pub bar. Or stop b for a great value, great tasting meal in our friendly restaurant. Either war, there's never been a better time to enjoy a super time at Peppercorns Restaurant and Bar. These of/ers are valid up to 30th November, 1991, (luring all normal opening times.
HOW TO FIND US BROOKHOUSE FARM
THE RESTAURANI IS OPEN SEVEN DASS A WEEK, INCLUDING ALL. DAY SUNDAY.
Brookhouse Farm, Middt4eaze Drive, Lydiard Tregoze, West Swindon SN5 9PB. Tel: (0793) 874 223.
10
LOCAL LIVES
Teachers see things differently
"Just to let you
know about the diet I've lost pounds!" '7 said yoa could do it with the help of a Cambridge Counsellor."
ENISE'
DRAPES Professionally made FESTOON & AUSTRIAN BLINDS Friendly personal
Ot - ~
the(7iibr!de 40 Diet DEVELOPED BY DOCTORS OVER 20 YEARS
For details of your local Counsellor, call Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on 873201
service from measuring to hanging. Also made to measure curtains.
Telephone Swindon 770600 I
Sugaring Ladies! Are you tired of unwanted facial and body hair, then why not try the ancienttechnique called'Sugaring'. A safe and natural way of hair removal. It is not waxing or electrolysis and there are no creams used. To find out more about this unique beauty treatment, telephone Joanne Lister your local Zahra practitioner on Swindon 613484 (24 hour answer machine).
I am also a qualified beauty therapist doing make up, manicure and pedicure etc. I will do home visits anywhere.
oovoo. 00 . 00aoyoowoovoDoo QD2GOVOOOD
L0LL0L20
FramingL FOR A TOP QUALITY CONTRACT AND BESPOKE FRAMING SERVICE AT HIGHLY COMPETITIVE PRICES
* OVER 250 MOULDINGS IN * ANY SIZE OR SHAPE
STOCK
* PIcrURES •Miiuois •DISPLAY CASES ETC.
* FULL Moumr'c SERVICE OR FRAMES
ONLY
SwlMnnM (079 697477 UNIT 2, LONDON STREET, SWINDON (NEAR THE P ATT WA V CT Ah1fl1)
In our September edition, we talked to Munal Hackney and Peggy Doekson, two American teachers, who spent a yearteaciiing at Freshbrook School. This month we meet Ann Fisher and Alice Warne, two teachers from Freshbrook who exchanged their jobs and went to Minnesota. "We've been so busy since coming back to England, can you meet us before school starts; come along at 8am," said Ann on the telephone. It turned out that Ann and Alice had become quite used to early morning meetings. They always arrived at their respective schools in Stillwater, Minnesota by 7am and regularly attended meetings at 6.30am. No matter whether it was fifty degrees below and heavy snow in the depth of winter, school always opened. On one occasion all the volunteer parents who worked in Ann's school were given a barbeque breakfast at 6.30am, cooked by the staff to say thank-you for all their efforts. Alice Warne and Ann Fisher Celebration was one of the most striking aspects of life in the U.S.A. grated at a school level. "Ordinary for both teachers. "They celebrate people are much more involved in far more than we do," said Ann. their schools because they pay taxes "There was always something to directly into the education system," look forward to and we were al- said Ann. "Education varies across ways having a party of some kind. the whole country because of this, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valen- but in Minnesota, education is held tine's, even the 100th day in school. in very high esteem and is geared Everybody was involved and the towards achieving high standards events were integrated into school for all. The able are pushed along work and school life." through a 'discovery programme,' Alice described the contrast be- and the less able and disadvantaged tween Grandparent's Day here and are given a lot of help from learning there. "Grandparent's Day passes support teachers, social workers and quietly here. At my school, all the psychologists attached to the grandparents were invited in and schools." Returning to Britain has taken spent the day talking with the children and answering questions." some getting used to for both Positive attitudes amongst school women. Apart from the amount of staff was another aspect which im- money available to education in pressed the two teachers. Alice said, Minnesota and the excitement of "Schools havea tremendously posi- doing interesting things like skiing, tive attitude. They are very good at canoeing and for Alice a ride in a building up self esteem and confi- light aircraft, they admit to missing dence in children and are constantly the considerable sense of commureinforcing children's belief in their nity they experienced in Stillwater. achievements." "Things are difficult for so many Schools are financed and control- families here and we notice such a led by local communities in the sadness of spirit in Britain," said U.S.A. and the two teachers saw at Ann. "People appear tobe under so first hand how the local education much pressure and there seems to 'bureaucracy' was so closely inte- bea sense of emptiness all around."
Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TELEPHONE 870055 for House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 526601
and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 41602
New College helps youngsters to focus on their future Young people in Year 11 (5th form) and their parents have a valuable opportunity to find out more about New College, Wiltshire's biggest centre for A level studies, at a public open evening on Tuesday 26 November. Departments will open to visitors with staff and students available to answer questions, offer advice and give demonstrations to help prospective students decide on courses when leaving school next summer.
New College, which has been establishinga growing reputa tion over the last few years, is big enough to offer a wealth of academic, sporting and social opportunities for it's students, yet small enough to care, and ensure supportive individual study programmes. The open evening takes place bee tween 6pm and 9pm on 26 Novemtween ber and visitors are welcome just to turn up at New College, Heiston Road, Park North, Swindon.
AT YOUR LIBRARY
11
Phil Edwards and Jacquelyn Else announce new plans at the library haunt readers and is frequently re- sional writer. quested at West Swindon Library. Needless to say, the phenomTwo similar stories, though with enon of war is still with us. John happier endings, are among this Simpson, Foreign Affairs Editor of month's new books. the BBC and recently named TV 'Bitter Herbs' by Margo Minco Journalist of the Year, was caught presents 'the vivid memories of a up in the Gulf War. His new book, fugitive Jewish girl in Nazi-occu- 'From the House of War', examines pied Holland'. She was the only the background to the war and from member of her family to escape ar- first-hand experience, describes rest and death in a concentration what it was like to be trapped in the camp. 'The night the men camel ran middle of the conflict. away, through the back garden If you would like to see any of door...' is the chilling line selected these titles, please ask at the library for the book's back cover. enquiry desk If they are not immeSimilarly, Sonia Games survived diately available, they can be ree against the odds by hiding her Jew- served for you for a small charge. ish origins, taking on a new identity and becoming a fugitive in war-time Mobile Library Europe. She relates her experiences The new Mobile Library routes are with partisans and resistance groups now in operation. For further dein 'Escape into Darkness'. After the tails about stops and times, please war she arrived in America, where call into West Swindon Library or she still lives and works as a profes- telephone us on 871444.
Activities for 8 to 13 year olds Calling all 8 to 13 year olds Due to the success of ourunder fives weekly story time on Wednesday mornings, we want to expand our activities for the younger elements of West Swindon. If anyone between the ages of 8 and 13 would like to join us for a fun time after school, please come and register your name at the library withdetails of dates and times you would prefer. We hope to have two separate groups for the 8 to 10 year olds and the 11 to 13 year olds, which will meet on alternate weeks. Activities we would hope to arrange would include story telling, drama, face painting, pen pal links to another library abroad and any ideas you can come up with yourself. To go ahead with arrangements we need you to respond by registering your details at the enquiry desk in the library, and we will inform you when the sessions begin. Exhibition
During November West Swindon Library will be hosting an exhibition of paintings by Philip King. Of particular interest will be his representations of 'Old Swindon', in which he recreates street scenes from many years ago, using authentic Swindon locations.
New Books The Second World War and its effects still hold a fascination for ma ny peopleand indeed isavivid memory for some. This is reflected in the continuing publication of numerous books on all aspects of the period, not least on the experiences of the civilian populations of Europe. In The London Blitz: A Fireman's Tale', Cyril Demarne takes the reader through the war, as it affected a London firemen, from the early Luftwaffe air raids to the VI and V2 rocket attacks of the last years of the war. The many photographs show the destruction and horror that hit our capital city, and the text provides a detailed 'fireman's eye' view. No story is more harrowing than that of European Jews under Nazism. Three new books at West Swindon Library remind us of the sufferings which humans can inflict on each other. Smoke and Ashes, the story of the Holocaust' by Barbara Rogasky attempts to answer questions such as 'Why did it happen? How? Did anyone try to stop it? The book follows the whole appalling tale, beginning with the roots of Nazi anti-Semitism and ending with the war crimes trials at Nuremberg. On a more personal level, the Diary of Anne Frank' continues to
SWINDON SOFT WATER CENTRE Makes water softening simple No. 1 Best selling water softener in the UK
IN'ETI The worlds most advanced fully automatic non-electric meter-controlled s stem
Showoom at 260 Ferndale Road, Swindon Cal BRIAN COX on SWINDON 527172
Charles HAR ID I N G Valuers and Estate Agents THINKING OF SELLING? OUR OFFICES URGENTLY REQUIRE PROPERTIES IN WEST SWINDON
FOR YOUR FREE VALUATION NO SALE NO FEE TERMS
RING WEST SWINDON 430588
85?
RECREATION
12
Success for first soccer tournament
HEALTH & BEAUTY EQUIPMENT FOR HIRE
The GreendownSchool/Link magazine soccer tournament on 20 Octoberwas a successful event involving eleven children's teams organised by their parents. Tournament organiser Steve O'Sullivan said youngsters and parents greatly enjoyed themselves and he was looking to organise another tournament with more teams involved during the summer. The winning teams pictured left. Under 8s in the front row,from Middleaze Darren Gunn, Shane Osborne ,Jonat han Davoile, Christopher Yeow, Matthew Plant. Under us in the back row, Richard Lane, Craig Clydesdale, Howard Cheal, Neil Hilton, Michael Ford, James Cough, Robert Bartlett
In the comfort of your home
SUNBEDS FITNESS EQUIPMENT Exercise Bikes . Rowing Machines. Body Toners Exercise Benches Multi-Gyms
STAY BRONZE LEISURE 0793 - 876090
Young badminton players wanted
'IWestside Sp orts
.
Shaw Village Cent,Shaw (between JCR & Show Church)
Tel: 875712 Opening Times: Mon, Tues, Fri lOom - 6pm Wed lOam - 2pm • Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm
TW9ILL
GETFIT, STAYATGETAT, STAYATGET FIT, STAY FIT •GETAT, STAYATGETAT, STAY AT •GET FIT, STAY AT
LATE NIGHT OPENING Thurs 11 .3Oam - 8.30pm
=
• GET AT, STAY AT • GET FIT, STAY AT GET AT, STAY AT • GET AT, STAY AT
EXERCISE CLASSES BY DESIGN LTD Wednesdays 7pm.8pm The Absolute Beginners with Lee An Exercise Class specially designed for those people who have not exercised for some time and need a gentle re-introduction. Suable for men and women of all ages and abilities. £2.50 The Gym, Greendown School
Tuesdays 7.30pm - 8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning. Warm Up Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool Down. Suitable for Intermediates. £2.50 The Gym, Greendown School Bodies By Design Ltd. is sponsored by
PERFORMANCE SHOES Swindon's leading supplier of sports footwear
With Lee Hogan M.P.E.A, R.S.A.
A local badminton club is looking for youngsters who want to learn the game and would like to join a league team. The Concorde Badminton Club, which meets at Greendown School, is developing a youth section and provides coaching for young people under fourteen years on Thursdays, from 7pm to 830pm. Adults train from 830pm to 1030pm and anybody interested in a trial are asked to contact the club. To find out more, contact John Hare on 874008, or turn up at the Greendown Sports Hall on a Thursday evening.
Sally plays for England
Sundays 6pm-7.1 5pm Fitness Training with Lee Circuit Training, Stamina Building, Team Games. Mainly for Men, but who cares?
You've got to start somewhere! £3.50 Sports Hall, Greendown School Sundays 7.30pm-8.30pm Exercise to Music with Lee Total Body Conditioning. Warm up, Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool down. Suitable for Intermediates. The Gym, Greendown School Everyone Welcome. £2.50
NO MEMBERSHIP JUST PAY ON THE DAY
=
FREE I NTHLY RAFFLE
TEL: 0488- 684928 OR 0831 - 098273 FOR DETAILS
Nineteen yearold Sally Gibson from Grange Park played ice hockey for England on 19 / 20 October in a tournament involving teams from Wales and Scotland. France and Belgium pulled out at the last moment. Four women from Swindon were put forward to play for the national squad. Sally plays for the Top Cats womens team at the Link Centre who open their first season in the Premier Division on 2 November. The teamdesperately needs sponsors. If anybody can help, call Bob Townsend on 526714.
• Swindon Town F.C. Cohn Calderwood was supposed to present the trophies at the tournament. Unfortunately he was delayed by roadworks in Swindon. What with scoring the winning goal and bringing his wife and new baby home the previous day, life was a bit hectic for him that weekend.
Are you fit for Christmas? Link Centre promotions officer Anya Kent says they'll get you in shape Festive party invitations will soon be arriving, so if you've got youreye on a new outfit make sure you look stunning for the Christmas social whirl. Come along to one of Link's aerobics classes now and we'll get you in shape. Why not try one of the following: Step - Step - Step Mondays: 12.30pm; Wednesdays: 8.30pm-9.30pm; price £3.00. An effective aerobics class that will trim and tone. This low-impact workout is suitable for all levels of fitness and involves co-ordinating step movements - open to men and women. The MCI Club Wednesdays: 7.30pm-8.30pm; price .30 A fitness class especially for men. The class consists of circuit training and is targeted at men aged 25 years plus and have forgotten what exercise is! We are not aiming to attract body builders or fitness fanatics but to encourage the average 'Man on the Street' to take more care of themselves. Regular exercise is an important element of modern day life and these are just some of the benefits that will be gained: • energy • enthusiasm • ability to cope with pressure If you would like further information about any of our aerobics classes please contact main reception, telephone 871212.
ARTS SCENE
13
Comedy, Film, Theatre and Apples at Link Arts in November Variety Is the watchword this month at your local arts centre
Sat 2 - Comedy. Taking a break from London appearances, Eddie Izzard returns to Swindon in a solo show of topical tales, surreal events and off-the-cuff humour. 8pm. Tickets £5; £4 conc. Thurs 7 - Film. Ay Carmela! An entertaining tragi-comedy in Spanish with sub-titles. 7.45pm. Tickets £2.30; £1.80 conc. Fri 8- Storytelling. Ben Heggarty tells stories on the theme of apples, that most wicked of fruit. 8pm. Tickets E4.10;0.05 conc. Fri 8- Exhibition until 20 Nov. Save ourOrchards. An exhibition of photographs on the importance of orchards, highlighting the rate at which they are disappearing. Sat 9-Workshop. Discover the art of storytelling with Ben Heggerty one of the finest exponents of the oralcraft. Overl6s. 10am-4.30pm. Tickets £10; £8.50 conc. Fri. 15 - Jazz. The Clark Tracey Quintet featuring some of the new generation of jazz stars. 8pm. Tickets £5; £4 conc. Sat 16- Drama. Barebones Theatre Company presents Shakespere's 'The Winter's Tale,' the tale of tragedy and redemption. 7.30pm. Tickets £5; £4 conc.
Tues 19 - Comedy. Paul Ramone comperes another evening of alternative comedy. Not for the prudish! 8pm. Tickets £3; £4 conc.
Sat. 23 - Barndance with Feckless. 8pm. Tickets £4.10; £3.05 conc. Sat 30. - World Music. Laid back, irresistible entertaining music from S.E. Rogie. 8pm. Tickets £5; £4 conc. All tickets from Link Centre reception, telephone 871212.
West End comes to the West
Pressing the point. Julia Castle and CthyJenkinsfrom Thamesdown Council and vintage apple press - see Fri 8 Thurs. 21 - Film. Rosencrantz & Guilderstern are dead. Tom Stoppard's adaptation of his hit play exploring why Hamlet is behaving so oddly in a magical blend of farce, tragedy, illusion and slapstick. 7.45pm. Tickets £2.30; £1.80 Sat. 23 - Family. Find out about puppets from around the world in an entertaining and educationalperformance by Puppet Craft. 230pm. Tickets £2.55; £2.05 children.
Swindon's semi-professional stage company 'Stage-Struck' brings a two and a half hour cabaret show filled with music, drama, comedy and dancing to Greendown School on November 7, 8 and 9 (sold out). Stage Struck, formed eight years ago by Vera Bennett, Swindon born professional singer/teacher, now involves sixty members aged 5 to 65. The company has produced many successful variety shows and major performances such as 'The King and I' and 'Fiddler on the roof.' This years show includes selections from 'Les Miserables' and Barbara Striesand's moving story of 'Yenth', together with comedy sketches and dancing by members of this very talented group. Tickets are £3 each and can be reserved by calling 535052.
PB PLUMBING SERVICES • Boilers Serviced • Pump Fitting Service • Water Softeners Fitted • Washing Machines and Dishwashers Installed
Tel: (0793) 642995 PROFESSIONAL GUITAR TUTOR has vacancies for both young and mature people interested in learning the Classical Guitar. Individual half hour lessons on a weekly basis. Music examinations from beginners to diploma level coached and encouraged Contact BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24hrs)
CHRISTMAS MENUS AT THE HOTEL IBIS WEST SWINDON Menu selection available 1st - 24th December
Lunch Menu
Dinner Menu
Cream of Tomato Soup sewed with croutons1 / or A selection fro kr buffet urkey Ti*diuonal Wil with Sage and 0 SW served with the Vgetable of the Da' and Potatoes Hot Mince Pies wjth Cream4 Coffee £9.50 per person Christmas Crackers included in the price
Freshly prepared Tomato and Stilton Soup or Smoked Salmon Salad
lrad.tiional Wiltshire Turkey with Sage and Onion Stuffing, Chip )latas wrapped in Bacon or Lamb Steak with Mint Sauce u.st Potatcs, Glazed carrots orLemo .b Coffee and Mince Pies £13.95 per person Christmas Crackers and Novelties included in the price
Delta Business Park Great Western Way, Swindon Tel: (0793) 514777
Party Nights 12th & 19th December For priv - party reservatio . *hone 511777 and ask • Dee or the Duty M ager
1.
Open: 11 am to 7pm
A CHOICE FROM A DEUCIOUS RANGE OF TASTY MEALS FROM THE BAR- FROM 1.35TO2.85 A LIGHT BITE
OR A REAL MEAL
FOR A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF WINE WITH YOUR BAR SNACK
14
EDUCATION MATTERS
Balancing biased views A reporter from the Swindon Evening Advertiser was invited to the Greendown School governors' annual meeting with parents in October. Regrettably she left half way through the meeting after listening to criticisms voiced by eight parents out of the thirty-five in attendance. At a time when education is in the spotlight nationally as well as being a sensitive issue in West Swindon, the resulting front page article Parent's cane school results' may be having a misleading effect on
parents, as they prepare to choose which secondary school to send their children to. The number of people who actually read the article is probably quite low, but those who have heard the rumour and innuendo arising from itcould well be quite high. So, in response, we give Greendown's headteacher Ian Matthews the chance to put the controversy into perspective, and publish a number of letters on the issue.
Greendown headteacher Ian Matthews answers the critics ally aware individuals who develop a sense of the critical importance of education. To run a school which has these high aims on a policy of covering up weakness or problems would be gross hypocrisy - and would almost certainly harm the school in the long run. Publicly to admit to parents however, that some aspects of the school will be improved may be a high-risk strategy,especiallywhenthepresswant to seize upon admitted difficulties and present them as failure.
"Thank youfor showing me round the school. Iwas impressed by the standard of work and the atmosphere of the school." (Visitor from industry)
DIAL A BOOK FICTION ACADEMIC CHILDRENS NON FICTION We deliver FREE to your door (evenings) Pay by Visa. Access, cheque or cash. 8,000 hardbacks 50,000 paperbacks can be obtained In 48 hours Book orders taken for ALL publishers Cbildrens publishers a speciality Including Puffin, Walker, Usborne, Dorling, Ladybird, Heineman
Orders taken for Christmas delivery Telephone (96) 652024 days or 875825 evenings
"The student showed real application to work and was prepared to use his initiative when it was needed. If all your students are like this, you should be proud of the school." (Local employer) "My child is very happy at the school. As far as I'm concerned, this is the best type of schooling to set her up for the future." (Parent) These quotations about life and work at Greendown Community School have, of course, been selected to show positive aspects of the school - although it would be true to say they are fairly typical of the comments people make when they visit the school and see it in action. Unfortunately, such selective quotation can be made to prove almost anything and I could have provided a few quotations which gave a completely different picture of the school.
Ian Matthews and occasionally bad behaviour in public. In the nature of things, schools often take the blame for the poor public conduct of their students out of school hours. All neighborhood schools suffer the same fate at some time; so we make strenuous efforts to remind our students about standards of correct behaviour and back it up with actions.
So what, then, is the reality of Greendown and how do we go about convincing people that a true picture of the school is ree flected in the quotes printed flected above?
But most importantly, the students work in a controlled, civilised environment inside school, where the work ethic is always insisted upon and individual talent is recognised and developed.
First, an obvious observation. Greendown is anew local school. People see a lot of our students and they see a mixture of good
This is not to say that we do not have some problems. But they are those all large organisations and schools face as they grow larger and more complex. We mayeven have created additional problems for ourselves by being open and honest about the school and about education in general.
TUESDAY 26 NOVEMBER 6.00 — 9.00 P.M.
pr 1110
COOS
40 Swindcnc ucesstul CHeee. eflo re.'' or quo u
'he oolreqe 'e tcurlrtres
Helston Road, Park North, Swindon, SN3 PLA Tel: (0793) 611470
We have acknowledged, for instance, that there are some weak students and some inexperienced teachers at Greendown; we also recognise that there are some parents who care little about the education of their child, and we admit that sometimes the combination of these three factors can produce difficulties. But at Greendown, we have always tried to tuna school which encourages students to be mor-
Greendown will continue to be an open school which invites criticism from all quarters. Without a debate between all parties concerned about education and schooling, our educational system will decline. The debate at local level however must be based on facts and not on myths; on first hand experience, not hearsay. Facts such as the general improvement in GCSE results for Swindon schools over the last few years, for instance, as teachers have gained more confidence and knowledge of the new examination. Greendown will be part of this general improvement, as our staff gain confidence and experience. Given the huge number of changes which schools in general have had to make to curriculum, teaching methods and testing over the last few years, it is actually quite remarkable that local schools are continuing to produce better results. Greendown, too, has experienced all these changes, whilst at the same time growing into a fully-staffed, fully-built school! For the future, let no-one doubt that we at Greendown have the will and the determination to succeed. Education is about helping students become morally aware, well-educated citizens. We are sure we are already succeeding with this aim.
15
EDUCATION MATTERS
Letters on Greendown School The dangers of inconsistent reporting From the staff of Greendown School We were distressed by the recent adverse publicity in the Swindon Evening Advertiser article about Greendown Community School headlined "Parents Cane School Results." The report gave a partial and misleading account of the events at our recent Governors' Annual Meeting with Parents. Partial because not all of the views of those parents who were present were reported, and because the views which were reported were not necessarily the views expressed by those same parents by the end of the meeting. Be that as it may, the report was also misleading in that it may have conveyed to a casual reader that a large number of parents are dissatisfied with our "teaching methods". Nothing could be further from the truth. In the (literally) thousands of consultations with parents over the last five years, Greendown teachers have been heartened by the support received and the positive views wecontinuously get about the school, the curriculum and our "teaching methods". And parents are not the only ones who have praised us. Eight months ago, the Evening Advertiser ran an article headlined: "New Style School is Dubbed Top of the Form". The article was based on a Wiltshire Education Authority Inspectors' report, which concluded that at Greendown: "Vision and commitment combine with sheer hard work to create positive opportunities for the students. It has kept pace with the recent farreaching changes which have come into education and indeed is at the forefront of many of them." Coincidentally, the BBC Education Unit also agreed with these judgements when it came to make a film, for national release, about our recent National Curriculumbased theme week, People & the Planet'. The film featured students learning and teachers teaching. But the Evening Advertiser must already have reached this same conclusion much earlier (and, of course, independently of the inspectors), when it ran a full page profile of the school in 1990 headlined: "School is the Scene of a Quiet Revolution". Thearticle was fulsome in its praise of our "teaching methods," How odd!
Now it is entirely possible that in the quest for readers in a shrinking market, the Evening Advertiser has conceived a crude and hackneyed headline in the hope of catching a few more casual readers. But it is also possible the Evening Advertiser may have forgotten that it still has a few regular readers with good memories for headlines. Greendown is an open school open to the community and to the parents of our students. It has never attempted to conceal anything from public scrutiny, including its first set of results, and it regularly invites reporters from the local press to cover public occasions. Whatever the reasons why some boys did poorly in their GCSE examinations (and we continue to consider those reasons), we should like to reassure your readers that thestaffatGreendown remaincommitted to the school, its systems, values and "methods". We are also committed to the continuous professional taskof developingour teaching skills, materials, methods and systems with a view to helping our students become happy, confident, articulate and well-rounded citizens who obtain the best results possible. We know that the vast majority of our parents support us in this task. In conclusion, we would like to draw your readers' attention to an article which appeared in The Observer recently. The article, entitled "The Good School Guide," gave a list of some ten questions for 'wise parents' to ask of a school, other than what are its exam results like. The list includes the following Are teachers enthusiastic? Areparents and pupils allowed to comment on school reports? Are you encouraged to see all parts of the school? Are staff and students friendly to each other? The paper concludes, rather surprisingly perhaps, that the acid test of a good school is nothing to do with exam results or "teaching methods"or discipline or rules or uniform. Like all large complex organisations, the key to success is, apparently, all to do with "good leadership". Staff who have "confidence in this become teachers determined to make a success of their jobs." The answers fromthe staff at Greendown is "Yes" to every question; and "yes" again, we do have confidence in the school's leadership.
Choosing a School From Mr TAxon, Headteacher, Ridgeway School It is with disquiet and alarm that I the school be able to stretch my have observed the way judgement child right up to his / her limit? Will appears to have been made of he/she be encouraged to study? Greendown following the recent What demands will be made on publication of GCSE results league my child - and are they the kinds of tables. It is for that school, with its demands I want? What experihugely committed and enthusiasences and activities will there be at the school? Locality and age of tic head and staff, to make its own building may also be important for response to what has been said. I would suggest, however, that parsome parents as well as less tangible things like friendliness or the ents looking for a school for their children would be unwise to base kind of care taken when things go their choice on any one set of pubwrong. lic examination results. Choosing a school is not an easy A good school is far, far more task. West Swindon parents have than a set of results at the end of a choice from three very different one year-an exciting fact of human schools; each school is right for some children but no one of those variety means that some pupils are going to achieve so much more schools is suitable for all children. than others, however hard others The choice is there, but it could be thrown away if it is based solely on may try. Parents would not go far wrong if they ignored totally any the results of one year of examinations taken by pupils who joined a exam league table but went to some trouble to base a choice of school school five years ago. on the real factors that matter will
Ex-students comment Sukhy Sunner, BinaPatel Louise Wilkes, Catherine Voyce, New College, Swindon As four ex-Greendown students we were appalled and disgusted at the biased attitude that taken in the front page article of the Evening Advertiser of Thursday 10 October. The sweeping generalisations about the males' exam results were not only unfair but also offending. The article gave the impression that all the results were of an embarrassingly low standard. It did not take into consideration the fact that even though a number of students may not have gained grades A-C, they still might have exceeded their expectations and achieved their best. It was also disturbing to read the accusations that the staff did not encourage pupils to their full po-
tential. They were not only dedicated in the practical sense by setting up extra sessions for students in their own free time, but also helping us on a personal level by givingus emotional and moral support all the way through. Throughout our five years at Greendown we not only developed academically and learnt to develop our personal strengths, but perhaps most important we thoroughly enjoyed our time there. This would not have been possible without enthusiastic and friendly staff attitudes. In our opinion Greendown deserves more credit for the progress of the students, and beneficial atmosphere it has created.
A parents view From Arthur Riley, Woodchester, Westlea It was with some considerable dismay that I should have to read an article in the Evening Advertiser which took one set of exam results and by selective reporting created a totally misleading impression of Greendown School, its staff and students. I fully accept that the exam results were notas good as one would have expected. It should be recognised however, that exam results, although important, are only part of a student's development whilst they are at school. Good schools such as Greendown play a signifi-
cant part in developing confident, well adjusted, responsible members of society capable of accepting and dealing with the pressures of work and adulthood. Greendown can be rightly proud of its many achievements in the developmentof their students, with examination success to come Greendown will be responsible for playing a major part in providing wellrounded adults forour future. I wish to congratulate the staff and students at Greendown for their successes and long may they continue to grow.
NEW & VIEWS
16
New owner offers free pizzas to groups
Bouncy Castle Hive 12'x12' & 14'x14' For Parties & Events Can be used indoors in aU community PioUs
© 762955
The simple answer to hairless, smooth skin
z(Ir)r,u
THE ZAHRA METHOD OF HAIR REMOVAL "It's not electrolysis, it's not waxing and the treatment has not been tested on animals"
Prices: Half leg from £6.50 . Top lip from L2.50 • Bikini line from £4.50
Phone Christine Williams on 871863
DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Vans. Lutons. Estates Cars• Mini Bus 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret Swindon
Tel: 822193 Open Daily 9am - 6 pm Sundays 9am - 1pm
R.T. Farley : f. Landscape
Gardener
in West Swindon : 20 years experience. Y : : Turfing, Paving, : Fencing, Pergolas, Planting New . Gardens, Rockery . Construction, Crazy Paving etc.
Tel: 875174
The new owner of Dominos Pizza in West Swindon is eager to let people know that the shop will be continuing its support for local schools and community groups. Manny Madhani at 21 years of age is the youngest franchisee of a Dominos outlet in Europe. Following bad publicity for the shop, because the previous owner was employing under age workers, he's working hard to build up Dominos' reputation. There are now no staff under the age of 20. If Dominos can help your school Manny is pictured above with Tom or community event by supplying Monaghan, founder and head of Domi- free pizzas, contact Manny on 877585. nos worldwide
Mean machine in Grange Park Heads turn when Ryan Smith from Lumley Close, Grange Park arrives at Windmill Hill Primary School. Not many children turn up in a customised black Morris Minor, with flames ueeping up its bonnet and tyres wide enough to embarress a Ferrari. Some Morris Minor purists look down their noses at the abuse done to a cult car, but for Rory Smith, Ryan's father customising cars is both fun and a passion. He has always modified cars and although the body on his present Moggie is original, virtually everything has been changed. The car itself has been rebuilt three times in the last nine years. Under the bonnet is a 1300c.c. engine which will easily pull 100mph on the rare occasions it is allowed to. Rory has also tried the car on a drag strip and achieved 69mph in a quarter of a mile. But most of the time, after the weather forcast has been checked to make sure it won't rain and spoil the wax finish, Rory and the family take off forcustom car shows and classiccar rallies. Now the Morris is up for sale
Ryan and Rory Smith and pet moggy because Rory needs the space to build a replica 1926 Model T Ford, which of course will be like no other seen before. Rory says customising can is all about creating something which is completely individual and he wants to get others involved as well by starting a Custom Car club in Swindon. Genuine enthusiasts with an interest in Hot Rods can contact him on 875039 to talk about setting the club up. Boy racers need not apply.
Freshbrook centre comes into bloom Whether it's for a boat, caravan, or trailer.
BRITANNIA TOWING CENTRE
11 IN
Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Swindon Can Help! * Towbars for Cars, Vans & Light Vehicles * Seat Belts (Kangol & Britax Approved)
* Child Safety Seats Tel: 0793 613147, 0793 488622
Grey winter weather won't intrude at Freshbrook Community Centre on Saturday 23 November. The Swindon Orchid Society is holding its annual competition with displays from five orchid societies from nearby counties. Unlike flower shows, orchid growers compete as an area society to put on an interesting display.
Over 1,000 orchids will be in bloom, many of them rare and unusual. There will be trade stands, book stall and refreshments. The Mayor of Thamesdown will open the exhibition at 11 am. Admission is 50p with all proceeds being donated to the Prospect Foundation. The exhibition will be open until 5pm.
You need to be in The Link for high impact and long lasting a dvertising in West Swindon. Tel: 0793 871793 for details
NEWS & VIEWS
Jacquie wants somebody to 'fix it' for her Ayoungmusician fromPeatmooris alise her ambition to play on a large looking for a 'Jim will fix it' to make organ can contact The Link, and we'll put you in touch. her dream come true. Jacquie Hunter (pictured right), who lives in Russley Close, has h'on playing the organ since she was and a half and dreams of havinga go on a real, big church organ. She used to regularly play at Freshbrook and Brook Field primary school assemblies. With several grade exams behind her and now that she has moved on to Bradon Forest secondary school, she is seriously looking to music as a career. Jacquie's interest in music stems from her grandmother who used to play for the Liverpool Philomonic Orchestra. She practices whenever she has a spare moment, though seven in the morning sometimes stretches family tolerance. Readers who can help Jacquie re-
Get fit in Toothill
Qualified fitness instructor Karen Hallwood has restarted the fitness classes atToothill Community Centre. Whatever your age, sex, size or A new six week course in the Hay fitness level, turn up for an hour of Diet system starts on Friday 8 No- enjoyable fitness fun with the help vember. The class meets between of music to get you jumping about. 7pm and 9pm and lasts six weeks. Karen's classes are held on TuesPlaces are limited on the diet which day 7pm to 8pm and on Thursday Duchess Fergie has tried. If you 7.30pm to 830pm and cost E2.40 per want to have a go, call the Adult person. Wearsomething loose,bring Education office on 871413. a mat and a friend.
Slim the Fergie way
17
&P&1t&4# TOP
Malvern House 143 Cricklade Rd Gorse Hill. Tel: 619562
Nearly new nursery equipment, toys, maternity wear and baby clothes LET US SELL YOUR GOODS FOR YOU • HIRE SERVICE AVAILABLE
/y ueed? Visn Us FOR THE DRESS OF YouR DREAMS
atrpate
Jpc r Beauty Treatments & Aromatherapy
ATTENTION, RING TRACY ON
GIFT VOUCHERS £5, £10, £15, £25... Treat your favourite person to the ultimate present. Their choice of relaxing beauty treatments. For further details, telephone: Connie Jeapes IHBC, ITEC, TMAP
SWINDON 727763
0793 772123
Tar' DESIGNER DRESSES & ACCESSORIES TO BUY OR HIRE BEAUTIFUL BALLGOWNS FOR HIRE FOR FRIENDLY, PERSONAL
the complete carpet service • FREE Estimating • FREE Fitting • Home Selection Service • Expert Advice BEST CHOICE - BEST PRICE 23 Milton Road, Swindon Tel: 528903
Natural health for today's lifestyle A local beauty therapist Connie Jeapes from Lydiarti Millicent is offering an individual service which combines natural health products and Aromatherapy which she calls Jeepers.' Natural health alternatives offera 'safe' means of overcoming many problems with no side effects. Aromatherapy in particular helps overcome many stress related problems like muscle tension, headaches and skin imbalances, and treatment is suitable for both men and women. There is considerable difference in skin type and Connie uses the most suitable treatments depending on sensitivity and age. A full facial including deep cleansing, facial massage, removal of impurities, toning and moisturizing costs £12 all inclusive. Connie also offers waxing to remove unwanted hair from the legs, bikini line, tummy and underarm. For facial hair, sheuses eitherwaxor electrolysis for a more permanent solution. For example, a half leg wax costs £6. With Christmas just around the corner, Connie is offering a full professional make-up for that special occasion for £7.50. Miss Thamesdown entrant Ruth Docherty had
Interiors For beautiful colour coordination
Ruth Docherty, just after being crowned Miss Thamesd own
Connie's make-up service recently and she won the competition. Jeepers offers Christmas gift vouchers, so if you're searching for that special and individual present, what better than give something which is so unique and personal like a top to toe beauty treatment? Connie offers appointments in the dayand evenings atherhome orcan make home visits as well. To call Jeepers, telephone 772123 and you won't be disappointed.
* Curtains * Blinds * Wallpapers * Valances * Carpets * Sofas 38 Havelock Street Swindon. Tel: 513701
NEWS & VIEWS
18
scoops the poop
Guests coming for Christmas? Have your house (or just aroom) decorated for them
10
Every time Bill Hillard-Reid from Beaulieu Close, Toothill takes his dog Shandy for a walk, he always makes sure he has a plastic bag and a trowel as well. When she has done what comes naturally, Bill scoops up the mess, takes it home and flushes it down the toilet. "It would be nice if other dog owners could follow the lead," says Bill. "Itmightbe a nasty subject, but if you've got a dog, taking it out to relieve itself is one of your responsibilities. But at the same time, should you let it foul the green spaces and are you responsible if other people step in the muck? I think so. If it's lovely and green, keep it clean."
/
Philip Stone Pdnter & Decorator For a high standard of work with references available Telephone now for a FREE estimate Tel: 870515
J.D. UPHOLSTERY
We recover and repair Three piece suites, chairs, etc., Antiques, Domestic, Office, Restaurants, Pub furniture Large range of fabrics available
Dog Training Class with Top Dog Training Club Every Friday, Freshbrook Community Centre 8pm Obediance. 9pm Ring Craft. Any dog and owner welcome.
Workshop: Corner of Marlborough Road and Newport Street, Swindon For a free estimate, tell: 539913 or 871808 (eve)
ILKIN5.O
GA Car
Unit 12 Brindley Close, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon
0793 421125
0860 808061
DOMESTIC, COMMERCIALNDUSTRIAL INSTALLATIONS, MAINTENARR AND REPAIRS
Tel 875700 or call in to Westlea Playgroup Community Room Westlea School
Womens group starts seventh year Sally Davies reports: The West Swindon Townswomen's Guild's October meeting was also the occasion of our sixth Birthday. We celebrated with tea and a jolly singa long to the live music of Ronand ReneTrotman. Now we look forward to another year of friendly meetings each second Thursday in the month. We will have seasonal talks and demonstrations during November and December and guests are welcome. The next meeting is 14 November, 2pm - 4pm at the Link Centre. For more information call Mrs Norma Stevens, on 873567.
Holiday week starts on sad note
j.
1 Spraying
rs an.
Santa Suit for hire
Six months of planning came together when twenty-six residents of WindmillCourt elderly persons care dwelling in Freshbrook took themselves off to Warners Holiday Centre in Seaton, Devon for a one week break in October with nineteen other friends and relations. Sadly one of the residents Stephanie 'Mick' Godwin was found
dead from a sudden heart attack in her chalet, shortly after arrival. She had been the life and soul of the coach journey to Devon, leading the sing-songs and looking forward to a week of fun, bingo, entertainment and recreation. The group decided to continue with their holiday, which was enjoyable but subdued.
Pictured below, the holidaymakers just before setting off from Freshbrook
S. J. ORGE
I
ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING CONTRAC Loca1 'rofessional, High Quality Work Sockets p Complete House Rewiring
From RepIIWas tgathroom & Showe 1 11
/7 24 hour call out. /Chancellor
Close, Grange Park, Swindo
93) 84480l. Mo(O86O)
"It's th e o n ly name and number you need"
• ROOFING • PLUMBING • GLAZING • ELECTRICS • PATIOS • CARPENTRY
EX
24 hour SERVICE
P R
E
S S
• DRAINS • DECORATING • BRICKWORK
I SWINDON
490000
NEWS & VIEWS
You Can't Beat a Woman! Domestic violence - often known as wife-battering - has occurred in relationships between men and women for centuries. It can affect wives, co-habitees, girlfriends and daughters and the injuries can be anything from a slap on the face, a broken nose or ribs to a fractured skull or even death. It is not necessarily connected to drunkenness and can happen even in the best of homes. Everyone regards with horror the violence seen on the streets and at some football matches, yet this particular form of violence goes on every day, in hundreds of homes throughout the country and, until very recently, it was a crime almost ignored by society. Women stay with a violent partner for several reason; perhaps because they believe that the children need their father regardless of how
19
Jenny Manners of Swindon Womens Aid says Domestic Violence is Crime
he behaves, or because they believe there is no alternative or even because they are too frightened to leave. Protection through court orders exist but can be difficult to obtain, although a sympathetic solicitor can help a great deal. There are refuges inmanytowns. These are safe places that can offer advice and support and where women, and their children, can live free from fear until they have decided what they want to do. Unfortunately, all refuges are run by voluntary organisations with little money, the buildings are usually run down and always overcrowded. However, for literally thousands of women over the last twenty years, these safe houses have provided the start to a new life without violence. In a refuge a woman can find advice and support amongst other women
who understand what she has experienced. If she has no money she can make a claim from the Department of Social Security. Some women return to their partner after a stay in the refuge, finding that the shock of
MOBILE SCISSORS
Family Hairdresser in West Swindon ©Sue on 539114 24 hour answering
FREE DAILY DELIVERIES IN WEST SWINDON
Youthful look at crime Two youngsters from Swindon attended the National Youth Crime Prevention Conference in September held at Leeds University. Faizcy Finn from Westlea and Paula Drewery from Grange Park, both studying at Greendown School, were accompanied by Swindon Police schools liaison officerlan Home. Some 350 people aged 11 to 17 years and police officers from all over the country attended the conference which included discussions on theft, vandalism and violence, and all aspects of youth culture. Faizcy, who has had three bikes stolen, said the conference was a great success. "There was so much enthusiasm amongst the delegates that we decided to try and keep in contact with each other." Paula said, "Students are often aware of other people involved in criminal activities and it's sometimes easier for young people to relate to each other about what they're doing. We will be talking to the School Council about the conference to see
their having left home encourages him to try and end the violent behaviour. You Don't Have To Put Up With It! Swindon Womens Aid can be contacted on 536447.
HOTLINE © 613391 (24 hour answering service) Plus full range of LPG appliances cookers, fires, lights, cabinet heaters Visit Our Showroom Swindon Calor Gas Centre Bridge End Road, Swindon Concerned with crime, Paula Drewery, PC Home, Faizcy Finn how everybody can be made more aware of what can happen if you get involved in crime." PC 1-lorne said he had good contacts with Greendown and Faizcy and Paula had expressed concern about incidents and problems. He is hoping to start a junior crime prevention panel in the near future.
Included in price on all buildings Fitted electrics, insulated floor, blinds, overhead fan
Open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 12 noon
CRYSTAL CONSERVATORIES + + + + +
Superb Mahogany/uPVC Conservatories Full guarantees & Deposit Indemnity Speak to our many satisfied customers Over 20 Conservatories built in last 6 months Expert design service inclusive of drawings
AUTUMN SALE uPVC Victoriana 12' 6"x 11' 3" on dwarf wall £6,995 inclusive of all extras above and blinds of your choice
+ + + +
Included in price on all buildings Fitted overhead fan, security light, patio relay
Highly trained reliable fitters DIY catered for with Crystal back up service Commercial projects undertaken The complete conservatory service by a family firm
The choice of excellence makes quality your hallmark Tel: 496179
NEWS & VIEWS
20
SOFT WATER CENTRE WOOTTON BASSETT Come and see our full range of Water Softeners including the AQUADIAL, DOMEXTRA, EURO, OAKLANDS, PERMUTIT Also Available: Granular, Tablet, P.V.D. Salt 11 at Unit 4, Oaklands Enterprise Estate, Braydon, Nr. Wootton Bassett. Open Saturdays ONLY 9.30am - 4pm. OR
Ring Swindon 853156 for further information or appointment.
SIGN WRITER Specialist in Signwritlng vehicles. Also: Glass, Boards, Facias, Banners, Vinyl Lettering Brinkworth (066641) 716 • Mobile: 0831 . 553198
Washing Machine Repairs Same Day Service Guaranteed Repairs D.I.Y. Spares Delivery Service J. Martin • Tel: 694930 West Swindon
Fireman says 'Give yourself an early Christmas present' by Sub Officer Pete Townsend - Westlea Fire Station Every nowand then a tragedy strikes which makes Britain's viewing and reading public sit up and take stock of their lives and re-assess their safety. Seat belts will be worn religiously; road speeds will be reduced; children wilibe watched with paranoid eyes and an extra vigil will be kept on fire safety in the home. Sadly, however, these protective measures are usually only temporary and will disappear after a surprisingly short space of time. ITV's London Burning, though entertaining, gives a very false pictureof a typical house fire. 99% of all fire victims never have a chance of rising from their beds or hear the crackle of flames and, perhaps mercifully, never feel the searing heat.
Alarm saves family
Toxic jetblacksmoke, so typically produced from burning soft furnishings, will have already done its deadly work. The unsuspecting sleeper slips into oblivion totally unaware of anything being wrong. Becauseofmajoradvances inelectronics technology domestic smoke detectors are not only reliable and very effectivebut they are also cheap. Well within almost everyone's budget, they give you and your family the early warning needed to escape. As a firefighterlama public servant; your servant. The Fire Brigade is not a commercial concern and I have nothing to gain in making this plea other than my own peace of mind. Please don't be complacent; don't lay down this article and promise yourself you will look at smoke detectors the next time you are in the right shop.
DO IT NOW!
Fill out an order slip from a mail order catalogue or better still take a trip to your local DIY store. While you're about it why not buy one for a relative or friend. It may be the best investment you will ever make. Firemen from Westlea station will be pleased to make a home visit to advise on where smoke detectors can be located in your home. Ring them on 487562.
0 MOBILE VEHICLE SERVICING REPAIRS & TUNING By qualified engineers from fully equipped Mobile Workshops at your home or place of work Phone Dave Powell MOBILE 0860 453329 • Swindon 612930 SET PRICE INCLUDES PARTS, LABOUR & VAT
Xmas party for 45+
Bathrooms & Kitchens Plumbing & Heating/Electrical Contractors JuneMead with the remains of theala rm which saved her family
SPECIAL OFFERS + Supply & Fit bathroom suite - choice of five colours - £450 + Kitchens - Supplied and installed from £2,000
HILYOR Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Ind. Est. Swindon Tel: Les or Allen on 532623/431044 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A
'_SJ '..
'..
'.
'.1 './
'.)
_' .., ..
•.I
S.
S
I
.. c 'j .) '.) '..
.) (_
'.) .) S. 5)
Raymond Stansfield
DECORATOR with over 30 years experience.
Craftsman in Paint and Decor SPECIALIST in Paperhanging, Graining, Marble, and Decorative Effects & Finishes. Telephone: (0793) 874299 A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A'
June Mead and her children from Oakham Close, Toothill had a lucky escape when fire swept through her house in September causing £4,000 worth of damage. "1 fell asleep with a cigarette in my hand. The detector woke me just as my sleeve caught fire. I ran into the kitchen to get a jug of water to put out the flames on the sofa and I thought I was successful. I went back to the kitchen to put my arm under running water and suddenly the living room was full of flames and smoke." She rushed upstairs, collected the children and escaped from the house and her neighbours called the fire brigade. June's sofa was not made of fire resistant foam, but luckily her father had given her a smoke detector last year. She had only replaced the battery a couple of months previously and is clearly thankful she had. She's also thankful that most of her property loss was covered by insurance.
Link Centre Over 45's Club will be holding their Christmas Party in the Community Suite on Saturday 7 December, 145pm - 7pm. for members only. The Croft Players will give a concert from 2pm-4pm, and there will be a buffet and dancing from 4pm 7pm. Tickets at £1.50 are on sale from Mr Bowles, Social Secretary, tel: 694425.
Pizza Hut competition winners Our competition last month sponsored by Pizza Hut attracted dozens of entries. The first prize winner, who receives a meal worth £20, is Mrs J.F. Archer of Old Shaw Lane. Runners up were P. Muller of Rochford Close, Grange Park (E15 voucher), and Mrs B. Cook who lives in Woodchester, Westlea (do). We asked you to match the toppings with thepizzas and write usa tie-break. Mrs Archer's poetic winner was Pizza Hut pizzas are the best
becausetheir toppings satisfyevery craving, fast, hot and money saving.
21
NEWS & VIEWS
New opening hours at Thamesdown Citizens Advice Bureau by Karel Edwards, Manager of Thamesdown CAB How can we help you?
To be a volunteer you do not need to 'know it all' - our volunteers are people who are unemployed, looking after children, employed in part or full-time work, retired, students and people unable to do paid work because of sickness or disability.
The Citizens Advice Bureau is an independent voluntary organisation giving free, confidential and impartial advice - we don't charge, we won't talk to anyone about your problem without your permission, We are looking for people who are we won't judge you. open minded, interested in people, The areas of advice we cover are able to listen and keen to learn new wide ranging and include: debt, skills. social security, housing, employment, family and personal matters, The more volunteers we have the consumer, immigration, legal pro- better the service we can provide - if you want to help your community cedures, taxes, health, education. by becoming a volunteer, send us We can help you in a number of your name and address and we will ways let you have more information. Information - using a national in- New Opening Hours formation system containing thousands of information items in all From November the Bureau will be open longer hours. subjects.
Typing, Word Processing, Shorthand, Audio, Business English Individual tuition in small groups by qualified tutors. Start any time - days, evenings, weekends. 60 Victoria Road Swindon. Tel: 534997
Wordprocessing & Secretarial Services For a fast, efficient and confidential service guaranteed • Letters • Mailshots • Reports Manuscripts • CVs • Theses - Dissertations
Call Pat on Swindon 722486
FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTANCY + EASY TO USE ACCOUNTS PACKAGES WITH VIDEO AND GUIDE + KEEPS BOOK-KEEPING TO A MINIMUM AND LETS US GIVE A FIXED PRICE ACCOUNTS/TAX/AUDIT SERVICE
+ HOT LINE SUPPORT - REGULAR HELP MEETINGS RING NOW FOR FREE NO OBLIGATION DISCUSSION MILL HILL
ASSOCIATES • TEL: (0793) 874260
NATIONAL VACUUM
To make an appointment, call in during reception hours ortelephone.
CLEANER SERVICES
YOUR LOCAL, FRIENDLY SPECIALIST for service repair to most makes of VACUUM CLEANERS AND POLISHERS
Telephone:
Monday - Friday 10am4pm Swindon 528303 or 538201
Sales of machines, dustbags, belts, etc. Direct Phone to Workshop 9am - 5pm 0285 -712991
How can you help us? Thursday 5pm - 7pm Swindon 528303 The CAB relies mainly on volunteers to give advice -backed up by a Many enquiries can be dea it with by team of paid staff to give training, telephone, but if not an appointment will be made support and specialist help.
Make a dedication on BBC Wiltshire Sound
PATRICIA HULME
FOR THE SELF EMPLOYED & SMALLER BUSINESS
Advice - looking at different op- Reception: tions available to you, advising on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, tactics and helping you decide what Friday: lOam - 3pm you want to do. Wednesday: Closed all day Practical help - drafting letters, fillAll callers will be given a reception ing out forms, negotiating on your interview by an experienced advibehalf by telephone or letter, writsor who will then make an appointing appeal letters. ment at a time to suit them. Representation - if you have a court Appointments: or tribunal hearing we will help you prepare a case and may be able to Monday - Friday: lOam - 4pm represent you. Thursday: 5pm - 7pm We will always try to arrange and pay for interpreters /signers for people who find it easier to communicate in a language other than English or who have hearing difficulties.
Prospect Commercial College
TT)
U
ESTiMATES COLLECTION & DEll VERY
For a Fully Guaranteed, Expert and Speedy Repair Service
,
12r
Swindon 8810071
Ro: Chris Highton, BBC Wiltshire Sound, Broadcasting
Make a dedication on the Chris Highton Sunday Show which is broadcast on BBC Wiltshire Sound between lOam and 12 noon. Fill in the details on the form printed on the right and send it to Chris Highton, BBC Wiltshire Sound, Broadcasting House, Swindon SN1 3RW. Every time he reads out a dedication, Chris will mention The Link. The programme can be heard on 103.6, 104.3 or [ 103.5 mHz FM or Medium Wave.
House, Swindon SN1 3RW.
Dear Chris Highton, Please play my dedication.... My name: Address: My telephone: Dedication for: Address: Date I would like it to be played: dication form from West Swindon's magazine The Link
Y.
NEWS & VIEWS
22
A.E. PAVING
Mark hopes for Europe
Patios, Crazy Paving, Block Paving, Driveways, Garden Walls, Turfing, Fencing No job too small
Telephone: 876066
a complete landscaping service including
* patios * walling * fencing gates * trellis work * turf-laying Free delivery of
* fence panels & posts * supply only or supply and fit
K. Wood Fencing Tel: (0793) 848260 Eves: 692658
Mark Chessell, pictured above, from Freshbrookjust can't stop riding motorbikes, despite breaking both anIdes, a shoulder, ribs, pelvis and several fingers over the last few years. Mark, from Kimbolton Close, started riding speedway at 15, as a junior with Swindon. He went on to ride for Oxford, Reading, Milton Keynes and Arena Essex as a senior. However the injuries he received kept him out of racing which meant money for racing ran short. To be up with the leaders you have to have at least two bikes each costing £2,500, and without sponsors you don't stand a chance. So Mark had to give up speedway to get fit, regain his confidence and earn a living. Having left school and gone straight into speedway, he took himself back to night school to get a trade and he's now a partner in a
The West Swindon Grub Club has been cooking up some mouth watering dishes over the last month. These have included chilli concarne, spaghetti bolognaise, macaroni cheese and chicken supreme, not to mention the delicious puddings which have included, fruits of the forest cheesecake and fresh fruit salad with whipped cream!! Interested? If you'd like to be involved with the Grub Club, which meets on Thursday between 12 noon and 2pm at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, just drop in. You get a delicious meal and free childcare all for El. The Grub Club is a lunch club aimed at under twenty fives who flourishing building business. are not in work during the days. However the lure of racing could For more information and tobook not keep him away for long and he a meal, give Miriam Minty or Pam took up grass track racing last year. Pixtona ring at the Community Suite In September he took sixth place in on 871212 ext 234. Or leave your the south-west championships and name and contact number a tToothill is now ranked about thirty-fourth in or Freshbrook Community Centre. the country. His goal for next year is to qualify for an international liBefore you put up the cence, which he missed by one point last season after an engine blow-up. Christmas decorations Trips abroad will mean longer away As your mind turns to what Christfrom home, but much higher earn- masdecorations to putup,you might ings if he is successful. thinkthe loungeora bedroomneeds Mark has to spend eight to ten a lick of paint. hours stripping his bike down after West Swindon decorator Philip every race meeting. Barring me- Stone is ready to give your hosue chanical faults, the engine has to be that bright new look before the taken apart after ever six meetings. friends and relations make their anHe works on the bike in his back nual visit. His prices are very comgarden; luckily for his neighbours petitive and he do the job at a few he does not test the engine out in his days notice. So before putting up street. the tinsel, give Philip a call on870515.
West Swindon Community Enterprise Urgent Notice From Karen Stevenson Will all those still in the area, who were involved in any way with the West Swindon Community Enterprise effort, contact me immediately regarding arranging a meeting.
ROMELOVEPAc Does you home need a little care and attention? From a once-a-year spring clean to regular domestic help, Homelovers has the answer. All aspects of domestic help are covered by this service - ironing, oven cleaning, etc. Call Les Daniels on 727926
Good Grub At The Grub Club
The Link Classifieds Lineage ads cost £3.50 per single column centimetre inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon
Our last meeting was in 1989 and it is vital to decide whether to wind Childcare up the company. Some of those Childminder in Shaw/Ramleaze present at the meeting on 14 June has one full/part time vacancy for 1989 were: Ricky Midwinter, Tony child 2+. Tel: 870508. Free, Laurence Yeoman, Lucie Registered Childminder available Hartley, Steve Dudman and for evening babysitting. £3 per Kingsley Matthews. Please note that hour. Own transport. Tel: 873519 I cannot wind things up alone and Clothing Alterations & Repairs require at least two other people to Tel: 872096 satisfy legal requirements. Mrs White, Freshbrook I can be contacted at any time on 875483 or leave a message on the answering machine.
MOVING HOUSE? GENERAL CLEAR OUT? We clear household rubbish, sheds, garages. etc. Also tree & hedge cutting and mini skip hire. Tel: 480527 No lob too small
For Sale in Shaw: 2 bed semidetached house. Well maintained. Larger than average garden. Private parking. £51,500. Tel: (0793) 870515
Celebrating Navratri (Nine Nights) The Swindon Hindu Samaj (community) once again held the annual festival of Navratri in October which brought the community together for nine consecutive nights of prayer and dancing at the Link Centre. PH Mehta of the describes the significance of the celebration
23 Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421 St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park Rev. Rob BurIes 870244 Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 t Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372 t also All Saints, L. Millicent
THE. COMPLETE
Freshbrook Church Worsley Road Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday lOam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone Rev. Peter Grainger on 490498. Church Office, Tel: 873050
MOBILEOBILE MECHANIC
The children in their fine saris and headresses in front of the shrine at the centre of the hail in the community suite at the Link Centre Navratri is one of the most celWE COME TO YOU ebrated Hindu Festivals in Britain G. Stevens Electrical and in India. It is the most popular 'Non-Starts -Servicing *Tuning N.l.C.E.l.C. Approved festival among the younger genera'M.O.T. Work .Breakdowns Commercial, Industrial tion in this country. • Electrical Faults & Domestic Installations It is dedicated to one of the many An electricity fault in October in the 'Clutches fitted aspects of Shakti Devi Dhurga The road opposite the new Tregoze Full inspection & testing Goddess' or female energy and School, Grange Park has worried of premises undertaken therefore it is also known as Dhurga local councillor Bob Pixton. Fire/Intruder Alarms Puja. He was contacted by a resident of According to the Hindu calendar Bosworth Road who reported an No Garage Prices or Waiting Specialists the festival begins on the first night explosion. A late night trip to the Please Telephone 'Swindon 870948 of the month of Asho or Asvin. site by himself and Coun Sue Bates 876211 ANYTIME The festival is full of religious fer- established that an electricity cable vour and social significance. had blown a four foot wide crater, It helps one to be in tune with 300 hundred yards away from the Nature all around and to feel the callers home. presence of the Divine everywhere. "We reported the fault to the elecIt makes life full of variety and tricty board and they were on site colourful, instead of being con- verypromplty," said Bob. "But you SOLICITORS stricted into drab, dull uniformity. have to ask why a cable should have Worship of Deities such as exploded in such a spectacular way. Contact us for all your legal needs Dhurga-Puja, Sarasvati-Puja, Lak- The SEB have taped the cables toshmi-Puja etc. is seeking strength, gether but the wires were left fairly including wisdom, prosperity, success in life exposed, right outside a school. I and attainment of truth. can only presume the supply was house sales & purchases, This festival of Navratri is organ- switched off." matrimonial matters and criminal law ised every year by the Hindu Samaj An engineer for the SEB said the and is celebrated at the Link Centre fault had been caused by water penCommunity Suite. etration. Because the site is under 34 - 35 Commercial Road, Swindon Hindus from all over Thames- construction and the pavement has down come each evening to the Link not been completed, it was possible Tel: 617617 Centre with their families dressed in that the cable was not located at the colourful Indian costumes, espe- required depth. cially the children and ladies, to parBob Pixton and exposed cables DESPERATE? LONELY? SUICIDAL? ticipate. The evening starts with a prayer and 'Aarti' (light a lamp) which consists of a brass plate or special lamp with five wicks covered in ghee. This is followed by 'Garba', traditional Indian dances from the province of Gujarat. Everyone joins in You don't have to be suicidal to share this dance, going round the central your problems with us. Phone anytime shrine in a clockwise direction, clapday or night, or call into ping hands, singing to the tune and 6 Curtis Street, Swindon rhythm of 'tabla' (drum). This is followed by 'Dandya Raas' betweeen 8am & 10pm. the stick dance and finally closing the Samaritans with 'Aarti' prayer and 'Prashad' distribution to all the devotees. OfSwindon 537373 fering of food in the form of fruits, milk and nuts is called the 'Pras had'.
ELECTRICAL SERVICE
Explosion causes concern
CARTER, GOVIER, READ
The Samaritans
TITCOMBE-
ESTMEAD DRIVE, WESTLEA, SWINDON TEL (0793)641643
--- GARAGE LIMITED
-
Em ••
•1•1.11
L
DON'T LET ME CATCH YOU OUT YOUR TER SERVICE NOW! 24 HOUR BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY - CAR AND COMMERCIAL 1'jS1 ' elgC
' eJ1
( WINTER SERVICING & REPAIRS MOTs WHILE YOU WAIT
%3
. BOSCH PARTS STOCKISTS
4.; DIAGNOSTIC & PETROL INJECTION SPECIALISTS WE ARE SPARCELLS HERE
PARTS & ACCESSORIES SHOP
V
/
Q ACCIDENT REPAIRS
Westmead Employment
Area ~
CAR BODY SPRAYING EASTLEA2E
ALL ESTIMATES GIVEN FREE
3 COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE
West
GRANGE'
osc RvIc.
Swind0 Tewkesbury Way
3 INSURANCE CRASH REPAIRS 3 AUTHORISED REPAIRERS FOR LEADING INSURANCE COMPANIES
PARK
TOOTH ILL FRESHBROOK
./ C
DISTRIBUTOR
<C'