No. 128 • November 1992 • Circulation 11,500
BOOK A BIKE FOR CHRISTMAS AT EXPRESS CYCLES
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Christmas Club now running
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west swindon's magazine and the swindon wide what's on guide Parents consider school status Parents at Greendown,WestSwindon's secondary school, have been discussing the benefits and disadvantages of Grant Maintained Status for their school. The Greendown Parents' Councii has been researching whether to 'opt-out' of local authority control since last June and organised five meetings for parents in each year group during October. A formal debate posing the question as to whether Greendown should become a Grant Maintained school takes place on 2 November. Governers at two local schools, Ridgeway and Freshbmok, have tried to opt out but have been dee feated by parent ballots. The feated Greendown governors have not taken a position on whether the school should change its status. Parents can call for a ballot on whether a school should go GM if twenty percent sign a petition calling for a vote. Greendown parents may support such a ballot, which would be conducted by the indende pendent Electoral Reform Society, pendent following the debate.
96 - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon
ir (0793) 534907 & 513705 1©It
Pudsy needs you more than ever Join Pudsey and Lincoln Bear at Link Centre for a day of fun in aid of BBC Children in Need Day - Friday 20 November. Already planned are: A Challenge on Ice - A special ice show will be organised all in a few hours complete with costumes, music and props
pmgGt 11
' Sponsored sports activities i Competitions and races for people with disabilities Live broadcasting by BBC Wiltshire Sound from 8pm - lam
; 11 1"
For further information, contact Alan Seabrook on 871212 If you're organising an event, contact the Link magazine on 872282 to get your photo into our December edition
C H N
WELEA SCHOOl. Thursday 5 November 6.3Opm start Adults £1.20; Child £1
L DR E N N E E D
(pre-school free) liefs'eJ,merits. Tickets oisaf the school G6uuy competition
Doors open at the Young Peoples Centre Young people in West Swindon have a place to go which is theirs after the reopening of the old milking shed at Toothill Farm by the Mayor of Thamesdown on Saturday 31 October. The building has opened and closed many times since it was first used as a youth club fourteen years ago. Now that substantial rebuilding work has been completed, the youngsters hope that the new West Swindon Youth Centre can stay open on a permanent basis. A new management committee largely made up of teenage users has taken on responsibility for making the building accessible to young people and for developing a programme of activities. Details of regular opening times for the centre will be published soon.
LYDIARD (Hook ftrt?nce) Saturday 7Nvmber AdmIssionfror.5.30pm. Fcodm 6pm. Firewórk3rt at 7pm Organisec (Tst Purton & Lydiard Scout Group
Safety barriers needed to prevent fatality A Ramleaze resident wants safety barriers installed at a road crossing to prevent a serious accident. David Feather fully expects a pedestrian or cyclist to be badly injured or killed on the main footpath from Shaw Village Centre to the West Swindon Centre where it crosses Ramleaze Drive. Over the last seven years since moving in, he has heard or witnessed several accidents and bee lieves there have been many near lieves misses and minor incidents which have gone unreported. Most ree cently, in early October, twelve year cently,in old Colin Defty from Middleleaze on his bike,did not stop to look and listen and collided with a car. Luckily he got away with cuts and bruises and tooth damage. MrFeather said the danger could
be reduced if cyclists were slowed down. "A lot of people use the route as it's the most direct way of
getting to and from the shopping centre and leisure park. The road crossing is on a bend and the foot-
David Feather and Cohn Defty at the danger crossing on Ramleaze Drive
path emerges between bushes and houses. Cyclists come down the hill and suddenly appear on the road; drivers don't have a chance. I often hear parents shouting at their children to stop before they get to the curbside. "We don't need an expensive zebra or panda crossing; barriers on both sides of the road and a warning sign would stop cyclists before they get to the road. The numberof accidents that have taken place are leading to a fatality." Christine Defty of Caprice Close said she had a very lucky son. "He had seven stitches on an eyelid, cuts and bruises on his face and broke three teeth - it could have been a lot worse." Cohn and his friends are now using cycling helmets.
2 The Link Magazine . November 1992
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Multi-cultural education and school racism Parents' meeting at Link Centre Miriam Minty asks: Is there a place for multi-cultural education in schools today? Does racism within the classroom still exist in the 1990's? These two questions will be the focus for a presentation and discussion evening to be held at the Link Centre later this month. The Multi-Cultural Women's Group who used to meet at Toothill Farm, believes that this is an issue which many parents are concerned about and interested in. They feel that by having an open meeting it will give local parents a chance to air their views on this important and controversial area of the education system. Daphne Nock from the Multi-
Cultural Centre at Drove Road will make a presentation on the role of Multi-Culturaleducation which will be followed by an open discussion on the nature of racism in the classroom. The evening will start at 7.30 pm on Monday 16 November. It will be held in the Stonehenge Room in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. There will be no charge for attending and childcare will be available on request. The meeting is open to anyone who is interested. For more information please contact MiriamMinty on 526161 ext 4843 or call into the Community Suite.
Transfer your memories for TV Home movies - and home stills for that matter-have taken to the television. All the hassle has been taken out of preserving memories thanks to the Family Video Album Service offered by VideoPics of Swindon. No longer is it necessary to battle with an unwieldly projector as the precious film slips off the spool and unwinds all over the floor, or perch a slide viewer on top of a wobbling pile of books to produce a distorted image on the wall opposite. Now all that is needed is to slip a cassette into the video recorder and, hey presto, there's the 1962 holiday or Mum and Dad's wedding of nearly 25 years ago on the television screen as
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Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dare, Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8PQ Tel: (0793) 872282
Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Advertising Sales: Tel: (0793) 872282 I Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly. Copy date for December
edition: 16 November
bright and clear as can be. Based in Cheney Manor, VideoPics can take ordinary cine movie 9.5mm, 8mmor 16mm- ora series of slides or photos and transfer them onto tape, easily viewed at the push of a button without fuss. Ideal for those old memories gathering dust in the attic, a video is a perfect gift to recapture and remember that special event or anniversary. "We can colour correct to enhance the original material, as well as add special effects, titles and background music", says Tim Goodwin, Technical Services Manager. For further details, telephone Tim on 0793 513305.
M%t'Pa "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 5
Toothill Freshbrook & Grange Park Westlea 6 Shaw 7 At Your Library 8 Recreation 9 11 - 14 Swindon Wide 16-17 Hair &Beauty Feature 21 Letters to the Link 22 Local Lives
The December edition will be published on 4 December 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.
TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK RING 87228
The Link Magazine. November 1992 3
Play takes on future challenges A conference for adults at Shaw's Brook Field School on 29 October brought together adults concerned with providing children with experience of the environment. Called 'Play Green,' the confer- see on television in other parts of the ence is the sixth and last in a series world. "Older people perhaps find it difwhich have taken place in England and Wales, bringing together youth ficult to absorb environmental isworkers, teachers, landscape design- sues and the major problems of the ers and parents to discuss play, future. Some parents are concerned and are taking steps to do things, learning and environment. BBC Weatherman Bernard Davey like recycling waste, others do nothopened the conference by reflecting ing. But, by helping children to beon his involvement with the 'Save come more aware of the environThe Earth' movement which cam- ment through school work or paigned for greater awareness of projects and games at after school or the environment in the six months holiday clubs, we can encourage leading up to the Rio Summit in their willingness and also get the July. Speaking before the confer- message across to older generations. "Working with the weather and ence he said he had visited many schools in the Swindon area during being aware of the tremendous imthe campaign and was impressed pact that climatic changes have, it's by the awareness and enthusiasm clear that tommorrow's adults will there is amongst children for care of have the challenge of straightening the environment, whether it is for out the mess that older generations their school grounds or what they are making."
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The children from theToothill After School Club helped complete the latest stage of their long running project to turn the grounds of Toothill Farm into an environmental study area by filling their new pond. Local companies have also helped. Plant hire firm Hibberds lent a JCB to dig out the pond and Fishy Business Aquatics lined it for them. A £300 grant from the Shell Better Britain' fund has paid for the pond lining and trees to be planted around the farm site. Now that the club has something to show off, they want to set up a Conservation Support Group made up of local people who can assist their project. There will be an open meeting with slide show on Wednesday 2 December, 7.30pm for anybody who would like to find out more and could assist the children learn about and improve the environment.
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TOOTHILL
Long serving minister moves to Devon
Autumn Fayre Saturday 14 November, 2pm Ridgeway School Wroughton Lots of stalls, games, refreshments Tables for hire, to book telephone 521582
The longest servingmemberof West Swindon's ecumenical church team left the area at the end of October after nearly fourteen years. Baptist minister based at Toothill Church Ian Handscomb remembers drivingalongtheoriginalA42oroad, Arts & Crafts Weekend where Stokesay Drive is now, in Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall 1977 and offering a silent prayer Saturday 14 November along the lines of 'Lord, please don't 1 P -5pm send me there.' At the time he was Sunday 15 November a minister at Upper Stratton in the 11am - 5pm north east of the town. Ad. 25p adults; 15p children "God must have a sense of huChristmas gift ideas galore mour because that's where I was Refreshments available Organised by the Lydiard Millicent only a couple of years later," commented Ian. "There was very little Parish Hall Committee
at the time; a rapidly growing number of houses, a shop in a wooden hut and a recently opened church. The population was about 2,000 and we had about 15 people in Church." Ian attended the opening of the church in November 1978 and was appointed the followingJanuary. He continued to live and do some work in Upper Stratton and moved west in September 1979.
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He was a foundation governor at Oliver Tomkins Church Aided School, chaplin to theToothill Cubs, Scouts and Boys Brigade company. As a member of the Ecumenical Project, Ian has been able to preach not only in the new churches of West Swindon, but also in the established Anglican churches in Lydiard Park and at Lydiard Millicent. "As a free church minister, laiways felt warmly accepted by the older congregation who have adapted to the changes in their environment and in their church. "The highlights of my years here must be the celebratory events, the festival services and special services where up to 26 people were baptised and when the Bishops of Bristol and Malmsbury visited us.
"There is generally less church going in new housingareas and part of our task has been to create a local church responding to the people. There is a lot of isolation and lostness, people not having family closeby and nowadays with worries about job security or financial problems. "West Swindon is now a town in its own right and should have a marvellous future. But there are changes taking place, a lot of older people and also many more teenagers. People in the community will need to respond. But it's been such a pleasure to see how church members have been in the forefront in assisting community groups get off the ground. I also rejoice at the efforts of others not involved in church have come together to help the community grow." Ian is moving to a more traditional Baptist Church in Bideford, Devon where he will be administering to an older congregation whilst also trying to strengthen the support from younger people. "I've enjoyed being part of West Swindon's growth," he said. "I've appreciated the kindness shown, the willingness of people to participate and the support from other members of the church team."
Toothill Church Christmas Bazaar Saturday 21 November 2 pm to 5 pm Santa's Grotto, Stalls: Cakes, Children only, Gifts, Produce, Plants, Crafts, Holiday, White Elephant, Books, Face-painting, Games. Bargains for Christmas. Help Your Church's Restoration Fund
Telephone: 692134 (West Swindon) 4'.
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Young football players at Toothill School have started their season in the West Swindon Schools six-a-side league wearing a brand new strip sponsored by Toothill's M&W store who have renewed their support. Pictured rear left to right, Kevin Rouse, Geoffrey Gatrill, James Leavey, Lee Stevens; front, Peter Matysek, Tim Knowles, Henry lesson, Darren Fear
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK
Centre overcomes difficulties The management committee at Freshbrook Community Centre are celebrating the fact that there was a quorum at their annual general meeting on 14 October, unlike last year when a second meeting had to be held. The meeting heard reports on the improvement in the use and bank balance of the centre. However ill feeling was expressed at Thamesdown Council for taking so long to repair the licensed bar after the serious fire on 7 June. Re-elected chairman Terry Isles said he had been criticised for the delays after spending months getting the Council to do its job. "We started the financial year in some difficulty but sawa steady improvement in the use of the building and were able to hold rents down. It's pleasing that we cater for a wide range of groups, from under 5s and the Saturday morning kids club through to three sessions for teenag- Pensioner Ethyl Griffin had a nice ers and the club for OAPs. The new big surprise when the Freshbrook Bingo sessions are going well and so Community Centre autumn prize are our own fundraising events." draw was made at the Freshbrook He said people interested in join- Village Group annual general ing the centre management com- meeting on 14 October. She walked mittee or helping with specific away with the £100 first prize which projects would be welcomed. Any- she is going to use to buy Christmas body who can help should contact presents for her grandchildren. centre manager Maureen Barker on Above: Ethyl receives £100 in cash from 871017. Village Group chaitman Terry Isles
Thirst overcome Freshbrook Community Centre's licensed bar reopened on 16 October after an arson attack on 7 June. The bar lounge was destroyed only nine months after reopening following refurbishment. The cost of reinstatement was about £30,000.
Anybody who lives inFreshbmok and Grange Park can be a member of the bar. The cost is £3 per person, £5 fora married couple. OAF membership is free after the first year. Details and an application form can be obtained from the community centre office.
Book week inspires children Staff andpupils atGrangePark'sTregoze School celebrated NationalBook Week in early October by spending a day dressed up as a character from their favourite book. School secretary Angela Garrett greeted visitors wiggling long wiskers and the large ears of Lucy Mouse from Blackberry Farm and headteacher Steve Menham appeared from his office dressed as the Snowman. Each class concentrated their week's work on some aspect of a favourite book and visitors including the local vicar, secondary school children and parents, came in to school to read books. A group of children worked with the school cook to re-write the dinner menu to fit in with a story. "The book week gave us a chance to increase interest in reading and to raise levels of literacy amongst our children," said Steve Menham. Staff at Tregoze School dressed up for the book week.
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Indoor Boot Markets Sundays 1, 15, 29 November 9am -12 noon Freshbrook Community Centre Pitches/Tables £5 each To book phone 871 017 or 872450, or just turn up
Christmas Craft Fair Tregoze Primary School Sleaford Close. off Hay Lane, Grange Park Wednesday 11 November 7pm - 9.30pm Many handicraft stalls, Father Christmas, refreshments
Christmas Bazaar Saturday 28 November, 2pm Freshbrook Community Centre 20p admission Visit Santa • Lots of stalls Tombola - Raffle • Refreshments Fun for all
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Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226
Magician wanted
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(0793)874223 OPEN ALL DAY, EVERY DAY Quality Food served between 12 noon and 10pm daily BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU DAY Thursday 19th November Four course French menu only £14.95
Copious amounts of Beaujolais Nouveau available STILL TAKING CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS Call for details or to book BOXING DAY - Open all day Bookings now being taken NEW YEAR'S EVE FANCY DRESS PARTY Bottle of Champagne for best costume Four course menu only £19.95 Book Now
NEW YEAR'S DAY Open for Lunch and Dinner FREE BEER FOR ONE YEAR Just put this token into our post box on the bar. If your name is drawn you will win one pint of MORLAND ORIGINAL BITTER everyday in 1993, up to 31st December One entry per person. No purchase necessary. Name Address Tel
,Draw takes place on New Year's Eve,
Westlea School Christmas Fayre Saturday 28 November, 2pm Ad 30p adults, children free Father Christmas will be visiting • Many stalls
Quilters work on big prize Poppydown Quilters continue to meet every Monday afternoon between 1pm and 3pm at Upper Shaw Farm, opposite Shaw Ridge School. Thequilters are aninformalgroup who are currently working on two lap quilts for the Prospect Foundation. A larger quilt is also being made which will eventually be raffled for charity. The final decision
regarding which one will benefit has yet to be made. The group are planning to hold some Saturday Workshops devoted to the Chop Suey and Seminole methods of cutting and piecing quilts together in the New Year. For further details about Poppydown Quilters contact Joy Jansen. Tel: 872810.
More users needed for Sunshine Room Sheila Mitchell writes:
The 'SunshineRoom' was opened in Westlea a yearago. The AfterSchool Club uses the building in the afternoons and there are bookings for three other sessions. For the rest of the week the hail stands idle. This is something which the Thamesdown Council may take into consideration when trying to cut costs. The residents of Westlea campaigned for a largercommunity centre but are not using it. Many or-
ganisations may feel there are no sessions available. This is not the case. There are many groups of people including the elderly and some of our hard pressed teenagers who could benefit from the facilities which the Sunshine Room can provide. So come on residents of Westlea make better use of your community room. To find out moredetails about booking the Sunshine Room telephone 493489.
Tree planted for teacher Children at Westlea School cel- Judith's husband Clive expressed ebrated the life of teacher Judith his thanks to the children and Maggs, who died two years ago, at a planted a tree to remember her by. A plaquewas unveiled on a bench special outdoor assembly held in made and presented to the school warm sunshine on 21 October. The children have built a special byWestlea School parentPeterFitch. Judith's children parents and sisgarden of commemoration which will flower throughout the year. ter also attended the assembly.
Tootleabrook WI June Bradley writes:
OurAnnualCraftandPmduceShow in October showed once again what an enormous range of talents our members have. The schedule in cludedcookeiy,floralarts and handicraft and miscellaneous classes. All of these were very enthusiastically supported and the judges praised
the high standards of the exhibits. Our next meeting on 18 November will include a talk with slides on crime in the 18th and 19th centuries. Join us. We meet on the third Wednesday of the month in the Community Room at Toothill School CallJuneon4955200rSylvia 694085 for more information.
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SHAW Coffee morning and Bazaar Holy Trinity Church Hall, Shaw Centre Saturday 14 November, 10am - 12noon Toy stall, Christmas gifts, tombola, cakes, refreshments Organised by Acorns Playgroup
Book explains local past
Shaw W11
We had a very interesting meeting in September when Rosemary Jenkins demonstrated Ribbon Flower making. The iris she made was beautiful. Rosemary brought along a selection of flowers to show us which were all lovely. On October 10 we joined forces with Lydiard Millicent WI and held a jumble sale. It was fairly crowded in the Village Hall and lots of bargains were on offer! At our November meeting well Below: Keeper of Lydiard House Sarah be given a talk on Books for ChristFinch-Crisp and Debbie Shaw, teacher mas by Mrs Forster. We shall be at at Brook Field School take a look at the the Shaw Community Centre on 16 new educational aid November, the meeting starts at 7.30pm Why not join us? For further details please phone Kay Twyman on 871614.
Shaw homes for newcomers
VISIT THE LINK CENTRE OPEN AIR MARKET EVERY TUESDAY 9am - 4pm
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INTEREST RATES DOWN
Kay Twyman writes
An education handbook about Lydiard House tailored to meet the requirements of the National Curricuim was launched on 15 October. Prepared byThamesdownCouncil's MuseumService and supported financially by Readers Digest, the bookexplains the history of Lydiard House and the park and contains questions and exercises to test children on their observations.
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A start has been made on building new homes for rent by local people nominated by Thamesdown Council from its housing needs list. The 109 houses at The Prinnels is a result of a three way partnership between Thamesdown Council, Knightstone Housing Association and Lovell Partnership builders. Consisting of one, two, three and four bedroom properties, the developmentalso includes units designed for people with physical disabilities. The first homes are due for completion by Spring next year. There are 360 families living in temporary accomodation in Thamesdown and over 5,000 applications on the housing waiting list. From left to right, Knightstone committee member Laurie Coombs, Thamesdown Council housing committee chair DesMoffatandHousingManager John Hickman
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Answering back and coping with student demands Christine Owen responds to the comments book
Since inviting you to air your feelings about the library in our comment book I have had a lot of work keeping up with them. Thanks to everyone who has taken the trouble to write in; please keep your viewpoints coming. Along with the problem of noise, which I wrote about in September, there are a number of subjects which are regularly raised. This month, the thorny problem is school homeworkenquiries. Since term began we have had a flood of enquiries on all different subjects from all ages of school children. Because of the national curriculum a number of classes are often doing projects on the same subject at the same time. We cannot possibly hope to buy enough books to satisfy all the different subject enquiries for every child who asks for a book to borrow. For instance, music is a very popular subject at the moment; if I had bought enough books on Souza and military music to satisfy every child who asked Iwould have needed about 30 copies. Even when there are books available, libraries receive no warning of what projects are being planned or set. Consequently the first two or three children who ask for a subject take everything we have leaving only the reference books for others. Also for many subjects, and music is one of them, there are simply no books published at the level which children can read and understand. Certain areas may be covered, such as musical instruments, famous composers etc., but the more obscure subject areas, such as Souza and military music, are not covered in children's material. I'm afraid that often the only information we can find is in the reference books (which cannot be borrowed) and there is usually the problem of either too much or too little written in adult language. I'm sorry we are not able to find more but believe me we have done our best. So the message to youngsters is, the next time you visit your library for some homework please remember that you are unlikely to be the first person to ask for a particular subject and we may already know that there is little material available. Come ready armed with pen and paper and be prepared to do some work in the library, or bring some money to photocopy information if you need to. Also, please give us as much notice as you can, as we may be able to obtain a book from another library. The message to teachers as well, is it would help us if you could let us know of the demands coming our way.
Next month... an answer to the frequent comment '1 think this library should have more books on...' Now to some new books. We have just received a trio of books about the supernatural, always a popular subject. 'Discover your Psychic Power' by Rodney Davies, deals with all sorts of subjects from telepathy to levitation and gives clues to reaching your own hidden power. I shall judge how good it is by the number of readers who float into the library when the return it!
Phil Edwards who has been librarian at West Swindon for the last eighteen months has returned to Devizes library where he worked before coming to the Link Centre
'DestinyandyourDreams'byDavid V Barrett claims to reveal the future through dream interpretation, tarot cards, runes and I Ching. A colourful and interesting book to dip into. Finally in the library of the unexplained series, a book by Robert Jackson called 'Ghosts' gives descriptions of all sorts of ghostly happenings complete with photos and drawings. Ideal fordark winterevenings! Our display this month promises to be very interesting. It is a display of work by Swindon College OND students and will consistof artwork of all types including some specially designed banners to illustrate different areas of thebookstock, so there will be material all around the library as well as in the exhibition area. The display runs from 4 November to 2 December. Finally I would like to draw your attention to a change in our opening hours. Starting on 31 October the library will close at 4pm on Saturdays. This early closing applies to all libraries in Wiltshire which open on Saturday afternoons so for everyone who leaves things to the last minute, remember 4pm on Saturdays from 31 October.
9
RECREATION
Giving girls the best chance to improve
GET AT, STAY AT • GET AT, STAY AT.
! GET FIT om STAY FIT
WestSwindonbased Concorde girls gymnastic club caters for all levels of gymnast, from starters to the advanced girls who compete at a county and national level. The coaches hold nationally recognised C, qualifications and give their time to coaching on a voluntary basis. FIT, STAY AT
Glenn makes awards The youngsters who play for AFC The under 1 O won a mini-soccer Greendowntooka tripto theCounty tournament during the summer Ground to meet Swindon Town's holidays sponsored organised by manager Glenn Hoddle who pm- Thamesdown Lifestyle and sponsented them with a trophy. sored by Refuge Assurance. Pictured with Glenn Hoddle, AFC Manager Gary Williams, rear left and Tommy Wheeldon ofRefuge Assurance, right, with in front, Daniel Allen,JonathanMills, 'Peanut' Kelly, Jamie Williams, Alex Bridges, Michael Lees, Jock Hanley, Toby Clark
BY DESIGN LTD
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Designed for those people who have not exercised for some The club hosted a National DevelUme and need a genUe opment Plan competition for the re-introduction. Suitable Wiltshire Amateur Gymnastic As- E • 11 for men and women of sociation in September. The top girls from clubs around the county, all ages and abilities.
and two invited clubs, were put through their paces to achieve gradings indifferent gymnastic disciplines. The competition was the first to be held by Concorde in its regular training hail at Greendown. Concorde Gym club is run by a committee made of parents whose children take part in the coaching programmes. To find out how to join the club or to arrange to visit a coaching session, telephone Sally Gostling on 875397.
mçko ONDFRL
Fridays 6.30pm-7.30pm ' The lhank God Its Friday' Workout with Lee Get fresh for the weekend with exercise to music designed to stretch that stressed body
The Friends of Link Surgery are holding
I-
An Evening on Asthma Thursday 19 November from 7.30pm to 9pm
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New opening times Saturday 19th December to Monday 21st December Ring Link Reception 871212 for times, prices and to book 1R THIS
Take the tamity on a trip to fantasy and with champion skaters, beautiful costUmos & scenery pTE!
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1MPO BE
RecrealiOn Servces
BOROUGH OF SW THAMESDOWN IA'
LINK CENTRE
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Community Suite, Link Centre. Video and a talk by Mrs Pam Houseman followed by a discussion and refreshments The evening is open to anybody who would like to find out more about Asthma
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Sundays 7.30pm-8.39pm • Exercise to Music with Lee
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Total Body Conditioning Warm up, Aerobics, Stretch, Cool down. Suitable for Intermediates. Everyone Welcome.
31
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ALL CLASSES HELD IN THE ' GYM GREENDOWN SCHOOLrn 31 STILL ONLY £2.50 Personal Training for Individuals & Corporate Clients a speciality
NO MEMBERSHIP
The Community Suite at the Link JUSTPAYONTHEDAY Centre will be open from 9am to In 12noon and 2pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday from Monday 2 Novem- IL FREE RAFFLE AT THE END ber. OF EACH MONTH The Resource Room within the Suite will be open for photocopying, TEL: 0488 - 684928 OR word processing, poster making, 0831 - 098273 FOR etc. from 9.30am to 12noon and DETAILS 2pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
10 The Link Magazine. November 1992
FREE DRIVING LESSON WITH BB SCHOOL OF MOTORING D.o.T. APPROVED INTRUCTOR DUAL CONTROLS DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE NERVOUS PUPILS WELCOME
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Coidwatch Age Concern Thamesdown launches its COLDWATCI-I campaign this month with a new range of advice leaflets. "It is vital that older people know what services are available during the winter", said Jo Osorio from Age Concern Thamesdown. "These leaflets offer clear information on how to get help and where from." Make sure you have at least one hot meal and hot drinks every day. Wrap up warmly before going out, no matter how short the trip several thin layers are better than one thick one. Try to keep moving - take a little exercise every day; even If you are sitting in a chair you can still exercise your arms, legs, hands and feet. Put kitchen foil, shiny side facing the room, behind radiators on outside walls. Even if you are worried about the cost of keeping warm, try to keep at least one room adequately heated.
If everyone in your household Is over pension age, your fuel supply should never be disin connected by the connected Gas or Electricity people between October and March. Age Concern Thamesdown will be on standby to help out if the weather is really bad. But, in the meantime, be prepared. Call them for a free information pack, free wall thermometer to check if your home is warm enough, free advice about welfare benefits and help with claiming them, or free blankets if you are cold in bed. And, whateveryourage,call them to offer your help as a volunteer too. Age Concern Thamesdown is at 14 Milton Road, Swindon. Telephone 692166. The office is open from 10-4 each weekday. Benefits advice is available Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.
Christmas Bazaar Saturday 14 November, 2 pm - 4 pm Freshbrook Community Centre Tea leaf readings, Lucky Dip, Tombola & Raffle, Nearly new clothes, White Elephant, Tea and Cakes table - and plenty more For further information or to book a table, telephone 871303 In aid of the West Swindon Family Project
Being an Advice Point Volunteer
ERMIN WINDOWS
i For conservatories and windows in uPVC or aluminium with hardwood surround
Call Brian Smith
SWINDON 824419 87a Ermin Street, Stratton St. Margaret Swindon.
Sarah Wood continues the article she started last month
I started at the Advice Point in the WestSwindonFamilyProjecthouse at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, about two weeks after completing the Advisors Course (see article in October edition of The Link magazine). The Advice Point is held in the 'House' three times a week, lOam 12 noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday. I volunteer on a Monday and partner up with Roy Williams who has been working on the Advice Point for several years, which has been very advantageous to me because of his vast experience in this workork We cover a wide range of problems from help in filling out forms to debt problems, e.g. gas, electricity, water rates, poll tax, rent arrears, etc. Sometimes we cannot help someone because it is a more specialised advice they require, so we find the proper help and hand the case over. But we are always interested in finding out how the client got on and we keep the door open! Many people we deal with have been given wrong and sometimes bad advicebygood-meaningfriends and neighbours, so sometimes it pays to come along just for a second
Sarah Wood and fellow advice worker Roy Williams
opinionand, orcourse, reassurance. The ability tobeable to help someone with problems is a reward in itself, but working in the Advice Point is also beneficial to oneself as it can help to organise one's own life. So, if you need any help, please feel free to drop induringanyof our sessions at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook There is no charge for our service and all discussions are totally confidential.
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
THE LINK MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON
Another 60's show to help local youth Friday 13 November sees the Link Remember those classic Golden Centre rocking to another three and Oldies like I'm into something good, half spectacular show featuring No Milk Today, Ob La Di Ob La Da, three of the favourite pop groups Carrie Anne? Yes, Marmalade, Hermans Hermits and Eric from the 1960s.
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Haydocks Hollies are all still going strong and pumping out the excitement just like they did twenty five yeas ago. The show is the second part of the 60s show put on by local i mpressario Andy Cotton from Shaw in memory of the late councillor Ricky Midwinter. The first show in June featuring The Tremeloes, The Searchers and The Merseybeats had 1,200 people rocking in the aisles and the second looks set to do the same. Don't miss it. The proceeds will go to the Ricky Midwinter Trust which is being set up to help young people in West Swindon. Tickets cost £10 and are available from Andy Cotton on 882885 or the Link Centre.
Contact BERNARD TANNER on Swindon 521743 or 514055 (24hrs)
SATURDAY MORNING MOVIES FOR KIDS AT THE MGM
Hits of the Silver Screen in Swindon There's a musical feast from the great days of the silver screen at the Wyvern Theatre on 28 November. Featuring hit songs from Porgy and Bess, Showboat, High Society, Annie Get Your Gun and many more, the show is built around the vocal talents of Elaine Delmar and Paul Jones, pictured below, and backed by Keith Smith and the Manhattan Club All Stars.
7 November The Addams Family (PG) -A ' S
14 November The Care Bears II (U)
To transfer your ciné film, slides & photos onto video, please contac
VideoPics (0793) 513305 (24 hours) Also USA/UK Format Conversions
Traw erman family fish
restaurants & take-aways
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28 November Curly Sue (U)
Car Park A West Swindon Centre
SUN SPECIAL 1st October to 10th November 2 Fish & Chips for the price of 1 ONLY with the six tokens from the Sun Newspaper Telephone Orders Welcome -870455
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The show is packed with nonstop show stoppers from the 30s, 40s and 50s composed by the creators of the century's most popular music. There are two shows at the Wyvern and tickets range from 8.50 to £10 with concessions available. To book, call the Wyvern box office on 524481 or 694055 credit card line.
r
lOam • £1.70 MGM Shaw Ridge West Swindon
The Swindon Wide
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Sunday 1 November Music Swindon Young Musicians Showband and Jazz Group. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £3.00, conc. £2.50. Music Festival of Remembrance. Wyvern, 6.30pm. Tickets from Mr Fred Ferris, 323 Penhill Drive, Swindon. £4.50 Monday 2 November Drama Nightmare. The fright of your life starring Peter Byrne, Tracey Childs, David Kershaw and Jean Rogers. Wyvern. Also Tuesday 3 to Saturday 7 November. 7.30pm, Sat mat 2.30pm. £5.50-10.50 Tuesday 3 November Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta Wind Ensemble. Wyvern, 1pm-2pm. Sponsored by and supported by BT. £1 Saturday 7 November Drama/Comedy Frankie and Tommy. Hull Truck Theatre Co bring an hilarious new play which looks at Tommy Cooper's career. Link Arts, 8pm. £5, conc. £4 Sunday 8 November Music The Jay Ceo Big Band playing Big Band music in the modern manner. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £3, conc. £2.50 Friday 9 October Music Swindon Men of Jazz. Led by Graham Sheppard and presented by Swindon Jazz Society. Link Arts, doors open 8pm. £3, conc. £2.50 Wednesday 11 November Dance Tanwood '92. Wyvern Arts Trust presents The Tanwood School of Dancing. Wyvern, 7.30pm. Also Thursday 12-Saturday 14 November, Sat mat 2.30pm. £3.5046 Thursday 12 November Music A Fun Approach to Song. A French Collection will present works by Debussy, Ravel, Satie, Poulenc and other great French composers. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £5, conc. £4 Media The Musical Box. BBC composer, Stephen Deutsch, talks about his work for TV. Find out how television theme tunes are created. Jeremy Hardy Town Hall Studios, 8pm. £3, conc. £1.50 Dance Candoco. A dance company with a difference, three of the performers are in wheelchairs. Link Arts, 8pm. £4.25, conc. £2.75
KINGFISHER CONSERVATORIES
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Unit 7, Barnfield Road WE if ARE Great Western Way, Swindon HERE Tel: 0793 - 643866 • Fax: 0793 - 481139 Welt Open: Mon - Fri 8am - 6pm Swindon Sat 8am - 4pm QUALITY CONSERVATORY FURNITURE ON SHOW
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Friday 13 November Music John Etheridge Band. Covering all the jazz styles from Django to Scofield and beyond. Presented by Swindon Jazz Front. Link Arts, doors open 8pm. £5, conc. £4 Saturday 14 November Drama Not About Heroes, presented by Anabasis. A powerful dramatisation of the meeting and subsequent friendship of the great First World War poet, Wilfred Owen and Siegfied Sassoon. Arts Centre, 8pm. £5, conc. £4 Comedy Jeremy Hardy. The welcome return of the comedian voted Top Stand-up Comedy Performer 1991. Link Arts, 8pm. £6, conc. £5
November Overview Monday 16 November Music Music! Music! Music! presented by Kentwood. Wyvern 7.30pm. Also Tuesday 17 to Saturday 21 November. Sponsored by BT. £6-7 Friday 20 November Music Swindon Men of Jazz presented by Swindon Jazz Society. Link Arts, doors open 8pm. £3, conc. £2.50
Venues quick reference guide Arts Centre, Devizes Road, Swindon. Tel: 614837 Link Arts Studio, Link Centre, Whitehill Way, West SwindonTel: 871212 Oasis Leisure Centre, North Star Avenue, Swindon. Tel: 533404/5/6 Town Hall Dance Studios & Media Arts, Town Hall, Regent Circus, Swindon. Tel: 526161 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon. Box Office, tel: 524481. Credit card booking, tel: 694055
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Designer Knitwear made to order. Any shape, size or pattern. Pictures a speciality. Choose from our wide range of patterns or design your own. Call now 0249 891080 Also Party bookings, Fetes and Craft Fairs. Enquiries welcome.
Saturday 21 November Craft Market Wyvern, 10am - 4pm, free Charity Market, Link Centre Mall lOam 12noon, free Sunday 22 November Comedy Frank Skinner plus support. Wyvern, 8pm. £8
13
CARTER, READ & DOVE SOLICITORS
Alan Price
Monday 23 November Music Alan Price in Concert with his Big Band & Singers in the Greatest Hits Tour'. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £8.50, £7.50, conc. £1 off Tuesday 24 November Mime Pierrot in Love/Pop Art. An intriuing double bill from David Glass. Link Arts, 8pm. £5, conc. £4 RSPB Film Three new wildlife films: Seven Wildbird Wonders of Britain', 'The Wild Bird Trade', 'Birds of the Changing Countryside'. Wyvern, 7.30pm. Adults £3.80, Children £2.50 Wednesday 25 November Music English Serenata featuring Richard Baker and Lady Susana Walton. Wyvern 7.30pm, pre-perfomance talk by Lady Susana Walton at 6.30pm. £8.50, £7.50, Young Person £4 Thursday 26 November Talk An Evening with Brian Blessed, 'From Childhood to Everest'. Wyvern, 8pm. £6.50, conc. £5 Friday 27 November Music A Silver Jubilee Concert commemorating 25 years of Swindon & District Samaritans and the Gilbert and Sullivan Society. Wyvern, 7.30pm. Sponsored by The Harry Cook Charitable Trust. £6, £5 Saturday 28 November Comedy Mark, Jenny and Eric!! Link Arts, doors open 8pm. £5, conc. £4 Music Hooray for Hollywood. A concert featuring the everpopular music of Hillywood's Silver Screen. Wyvern, 6.30pm and 9pm. £9.50-10
The Best Barn Dances in Swindon at The Dance House, Ellendune Centre, Wroughton
21 November The Late Night Band Tickets cost £4.75, concs. £3.50 and £1 for under 12. A family discount ticket (2 adults plus any number of children) ccsts £12. To get a ticket, send an SAE to The Dance House, 131 Goddard Avenue, Swindon
Contact us for all your legal needs including house sale purchases, family matters, personal injury claims and employment law
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So call us now for the lowest prices and delivery to your door on (0793) 874873 or (0850) 650956 And of course for all your bike repairs too *Unfortunately discount cards are not valid against these offers
14
Swidon Wide - November
BLINDS JL SERVICES Z MANY DISCOUNTS OFF CURRENT PRICES ON SELECTED RANGES
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ffl 33%
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Carpentry & Joinery Custom furniture Fitted Interiors & Property Maintenance For personal, friendly service, contact
OFF LU I'LEATED Z w25% > OFF M ROLLERS 0 w F- HOME SELECTION C-) <t'fl. MEASURING LU rzt &FI7TING I— ,
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George & Carolyn PtlillippO YOUR LOCAL AGENTS
High marks for new Disney from young reviewers Guest film columnists, Gemma Charlesworth, 8, and Max and Lindy Leslie, aged 10 and 8, review the latest Walt Disney classic, Beau and the Beast.
JL SERVICES Tel: 695067
0793616605 F NO FEPIY FREEPHONE 0100 220195
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Telephone iJSwindon 770600
WYVERN THEATRE SWINDON Wed 16th Dec 1992 Sat 16thJan 1993 'Sow The Seeds' For Another Magical Wyvern Spectacle
JACKand the beanstalk Starring MARK FRANKLIN (GWR FM and 'Top of the Pops' Presenter) as Jack and
TREVOR BANNISTER (TV's 'Are You Being Served') as Dame Trott Plus A Fabulous Pantomime Cast
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BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN4r
Three of the enchanted objects from the Beast's castle, Lumiere, Mrs Potts and Cogs worth "It took 600 animators over three a better story and the characters years to make Beauty and the Beast. were good. I would give it 9 out of It was the best cartoon I have 10." Max Leslie ever seen because it was scary and exciting. The bit I liked best was where all the things in the house Films for November came to warm up Belle's father. Thursday 5 November One funny bit was a little cup called Barton Fink (15) Playwright Chip because when he turned into Barton Fink struggles with writers a little boy he asked, 'do I have to block in a seedy hotel room in sleep in the cupboard any more?' 1940's Hollywood. Link Arts, 7.45pm. Everyone laughed and said 'No'. The sad bit was when the Beast From Friday 6 November, MGM let Belle go because he loved her. Last of the Mohicans (12). The scary bit was where a wolf Vengence, battle and romance in nearly ate Belle." Gemma Charles- this epic re-telling of James worth& Lindy Leslie Fenimore Cooper's classic novel. "The story consists of four main Unlawful Entry (18). characters which are Belle, a beautiful but odd girl who loves Psychological thriller about a cop books. The Beast, who is fierce who becomes dangerously and bad tempered but is really an involved in the lives of a young enchanted prince. Gaston, who is couple when their house is burgled big headed and thinks a lot of himself Wednesday 11 November and wants to marry Belle, Pap, an Raise the Red Lantern (PG) inventor and also Belle's father. Arts Centre, 7.45pm The story is basically about an Friday 13 November. The inventor (Pap) who invents a new Friday Frightener: The Plague machine to chop up wood. Pap of the Zombies (18) A small wants to win the inventing fair but Cornish community Is terrorised he loses his way getting there and by plague. Arts Centre, 9pm stumbles across an enchanted beast's castle and becomes a From Friday 13 November (MGM) Sneakers (12) High tech thriller prisoner. Back in the village, Belle finds a starring Robert Redford, Sidney horse running back and suddenly Poitier and Ben Kingsley remembers Pap so she goes after Glengarry Glen Ross (15) him. When Belle reaches the castle, Estate agents like you've never she takes her fathers place and seen before based on award stays there forever. Belle is scared winning stage play. of the Beast but eventually gets Thursday 19 November used to him. Belle teaches the Hear My Song (15) Based on the Beast manners and to keep his strange but true tale of Irish tenor temper. The cartoon is not very romantic Josef Locke who fled to Ireland in apartfrom the end and the bit where 1958 leaving behind a host of Belle teaches the beast to dance. It warrants for tax evasion. Link is a singing sort of cartoon. Probably Ails, 7.45pm the best song in it is called 'Beauty From Friday 27 November, MGM and the Beast,' sung by Mrs Potts, Sister Act (PG) Comedy and whose voice is Angela Lansbury. mayhem when raunchy singer I liked Beauty and the Beast better Whoopi Goldberg hides in a than Little Mermaid because it had convent to hide from the FBI
The Link Magazine November 1992 15
West Swindon Ladies Club
Seventh birthday for local guild Doreen Shaw reports: West Swindon Townswomen Guild celebrated their seventh birthday in October and was entertained by Tom Andersons with 'Humour in Music' which the sixty members and guests enjoyed. Our Skittles Team which only started this year came second in the Wiltshire Contest at Caine. Congratulations to all the team. New members are always welcome. If you would like to know more about the group please ring Stevie 873567 or Doreen 693707.
Women Out West Kerrie Stone sends outan invitation: If you are free on Friday mornings, why not come along to Women Out West? We meet at the Link Centre Community Suite every Friday during term time from 9.30am to 11.30am. We make a small charge to cover refreshments and we provide a free creche for under fives. Our programme for the autumn is as follows: 6 November A speaker from Thamesdown Borough Council will talk about their transport policy towards women and how safety for woman can be improved in car parks and the town centre. 13 November A cake icing demonstration with Christmas in mind. 20 November There will be an outing, as yet to be arranged. 27 November A dried flower arranging workshop where we can make some unusual and attractive gifts for Christmas 4 December Lynne Lockett will show us ideas for children's party foods. For further information phone Kerrie on 875820
Needleworkers meeting Stitches, the needlecraft group that meets fortnightly In the Community Suite at the Link Centre, gets together on 12 and 26 November. Anybody interested in embroi-
dery, cross stitch, tapestry, needlepoint etc. will be welcomed Stitches meets between 7.30pm and 9.30pm. To find out more, contact Mazy Evans on 876066.
by Sheila Leighfield At our last meetingMolly Tanner, of Tanwood Studios, told us about how she started teachlngdance and how her dancing school came to be what it is today. She brought four delightful children who danced for us and what a joy they were! She is a lovely and very funny lady and a superevening was had by all. What an advertisement she is for keeping active. We have a skittle evening for our next meeting and a very full programme for the rest of the year, including Christmas table decorations onl6Novemberand 'BygoneSwlndon' on 30 November - husbands invited to this one. Our highlight of the year is our Christmas outing and this year is no exception with our evening at the Wyverntosee theKentwood Christmas Show followed by a meal in the Harlequin restaurant on 20 November. We meet on alternative Mondays at 7.30pm in the Community Room at Toothill School. We're a friendly crowd with a very wide age range. Want to know more? Then ring Sheila on 873131 or Kath on 522561.
Link Centre Charity. Market Saturday 21 November BargaIns galore at stalls arranged by a variety of community groups at the monthly charity market To book 'a stall, telephone the Link Centre on 871212 ext 234
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16
A LINK MAGAZINE
SUGARING The Natural Choice for Hair Removal The hair is removed from the root complete with the bulb. The paste is a completely natural product which can be used safely with no allergic reaction on any skin type. After your first appointment you will notice that the hair will be much finer and sparser. For more information, call Diane on 0249 -891912
VISITING CHIROPODIST Dianne C. Howard M.SSCH., M.B.CH.A
Telephone 0793 850089 -
Just Hair Professional Hair Care for all the family by highly qualified stylists
Open until 10pm Thursday & Friday
"JUSt to let you know about the diet. I've lost pounds!"
said you could do it with 17 the help of a Cambridge Counsellor."
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DEVELOPED BY DOGTORS OVER 20 YEARS For details of your local Counsellor, call Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea)
FOR APPOINTMENTS,
on 873201
Cabouchon THE
CABOLICHON JEWELLERY WINTER COLLECTION HAS ARRIVED
RING ME FOR A NEW CATALOGUE (PRICED FROM
.99)
WOULD YOU LIKE TO EARN MONEY FOR CHRISTMAS? IT'S EASY AND FUN.
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£12.50
Therapeutic Massage £14.00 Manicure £ 6.75 3 Hour Pamper £35.00 Electrolysis (15 mm) £ 4.75 Waxing & Sugaring available
Hair (5' beauty Gift Vouchers
Late Ni8ht bookin8& by Appointment
Tel: 770340
PAUL ANTHONY
Tel: 772123
5 The Parade, Paveithill
Purton (10 minutes from Link Centre)
CALL 874334
To find out more about this unique beauty treatment, call Joanne on Swindon 613484.
4
lam also a qualified beauty therapist and will make home visits I required.
Looking Good for Winter Cast off the gloom of the cold weather and start planning for the holiday season. Dianne Edgar provides some tips and advice.
The suntan has faded, the hair has lost its shape, the nails reflect the recent political uncertainties, and as for the skin, it only vaguely resembles the healthy attractive face of last summer. And now the party season is coming along, we have two choices we can hibernate, or we tackle these problems with the help of the local professionals.
hairstyle can completely change the apparent shape of your face. Today the emphasis is on individuality rather than fashion, so go for a style that suits your face, your lifestyle, and your type of
hair.
Artificial light fades many natural hair colours, so you might like to considera temporary rinse, a semi-permanent or permanent CROWNING Gwax colour. Your stylist is trained to Unless you can afford the Holly- help you to select the tight shade wood luxury of a daily personal for you. hairdresser, a good cut every six Mom THAN SKIN DEEP weeks is essential. This gives Cold days, stodgy food, and cenyour hair shape and body, maktral heating, all take their toll on ing it easier to manage and style. your skin. That's when you can And if you are thinking about a really see the benefits of a facial new look, remember that your treatment. Dead skin is gently -
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Bring a friend* for a perm and have yours free Bring this advertisement with you. November only. *Must not be an existing client. Must come on same day as you.
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday
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17
SPECIAL FEATURE
The Complete Hair& Beauty Service
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LE 1Jnise Hair{- Beauty Salon
5 Coleview Parade Nythe Road Coleview, Stratton Tel: 832318
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at: Emmanuel U.R. Church Hall High Street, Haydon Wick
If
your beauty techniques with a make-up lesson. HANDS ON HELP
For those of us with less than perfect nails, or in need of a treat, now is the time to book a manicure, and/or nail extensions. You will be able to show off your rings with confidence. SMOOTH LEGS
lifted away, blemishes are banished, and your own healthy natural glowis restored. Aqualifled beautician will advise you on the correct type offlicial for your particular skin type, whether dry, oily or combination. Help is on hand too, if your eyebrows have gone straggly, you need a special make-up, or you want to update
This season's slit skirt demand legs which are in good shape and fuzz-free. For a longer lasting result, throw away your razor and treat yourself to waxing or sugaring. Both methods remove the hair below the surface of the skin, last up to 6 weeks, leave no unsightly stubble, and regrowth is weakened. Today's women don't need a fairy godmother, we can transform ourselves with a little help from hair and beauty specialists advertisingon these two pages.
SUGARING The simple answer to hairless, smooth skin The Zahra Method of Hair Removal "It's not electrolysis, it's not waxing and the treatment has not been tested on animals" Conveniently located at Peat moor Telephone Christine Williams zahra on 871863
4 w
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THE GREAT SIN A DAY DIET
/
Beauty Salon and Solarium Specialists in all aspects of beauty including: Aromatherapy, Waxing Red Vein treatment Nail tip extensions - gel and fibre glass Late night openings Ring Chris or Kerry for more information Potters Walk (High Street) Wootton Bassett
Mondays 6.30pm & 8pm or Robert Le Kyng School Westcott Street (off Westcott Place) Thursdays 7.30pm
'Phone Chris on 871026 for details or just come along. Membership £5.20 Weekly £2.75
Tel: (0793) 855026
Will you be ready in time for party time? Do you require: A RELAXING FACIAL? SMOOTH & HAIR FREE PARTS? A BEAUTIFUL SET OF ORGANIC NAILS OR A MANICURE? TO BE MADE UP FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION? OR DO YOU SIMPLY WANT TO BE PAMPERED? Then you must use Leisa for any of your beauty requirements. A Relaxed and Friendly Service. 'Phone 0793 879404 to book an appointment.
The new DYNAMIC exercise program. Working every muscle in the lower body whilst helping to condition the upper body. It not only SHAPES, TIGHTENS & DEFINES MUSCLES, it burns the maximum amount of fat. Venue: Freshbrook School, Willows Hall Monday 730pm - 8pm; 830pm - 9.30pm Wednesday 7pm - 8pm; 8pm - 9pm All Levels Welcome. Classes limited to 25 (5 PLACES AVAILABLE) Tel: 0865 864182 to reserve a step Instuctor: Bernadette Cowap YMCA, RSA & Reebok Ste • Trained
The Link Magazine. November 1992
18
HOOVER • HOTPOINT
J. PHILLIPS SERVICING Repairs to most makes of Washing Machines, Dryers, Dishwashers, Microwaves and Vacuum Cleaners Hoover Trained Local Engineer All work guaranteed No VAT to pay
Tel: 526656 or 827804
7Day Service
CASH LOANS up to £200 Payments collected Repayment Protection Insurance Written quotations available on request
WINSLOW BROS Morley Street Swindon Tel: 643085 anytime
FUGI{F SHOP
Q-11ftWk
ANY BOOKING OVER £200 WILL RECEIVE £10 OFF ANY BOOKING OVER £500 WILL RECEIVE £20 OFF ANY BOOKING OVER £1000 WILL RECEIVE £50 OFF (Offer only applicable to persons paying in full at time of booking and at the same time taking out holiday insurance with our company. Valid until 24.12.92)
IMAGINATION AIR TRAVEL CONSULTANTS 3 Lower Arcade, Brunel Centre, Swindon Open 9am - 7.30pm, Monday - Saturday Car Hire & Insurance Available '-
TEL: 421888
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 Sunda s9am-lOam
Diners Club
L.E. Alit CER LOCAL HEATING PLUMBING & GAS INSTALLER C.O.R.G.l.registered From tap re-seating to whole house heating" Showers installed at reasonable prices
Tel: 538901
focaeaff New College OPEN EVENING Thursday 26 November 1992 6.00pm - 9.00pm Heiston Road, Park North, Swindon
o
Visit the college
O Enjoy the displays O Meet staff & students O Ask your questions Find out why New College is so successful!
Finding out about Britain Two students from far away lands are spending a year getting to know British culture by living with families in West Swindon. Karen Bosnos from Arizona, U.S.A. and Daniella Kuch from the Oberwart region of Austria are two of thirty students from around the world living in Britain this year as part of the AFS Intercultural Programme network. Karen lives withJanet and Michael Organ and their children in The Holbeins, GrangeParkand is studying A Levels at New College. Daniella is living with the Ann and Dale Mooney and their three sons inEdingtonClose,Toothilland is a member of the Ridgeway School Sixth Form. Karen comes from the large city of Tucson in the Arizona desert where you cannot travel anywhere without a car. "Swindon feels like a Karen and Daniella real town and has good shops and public transport," said Karen. "I English and Art History. My work love all the rain and the gleen grass. here willgo towards myHighSchool qualifications at home and will help It's such a contrast." Daniella, on the otherhand, comes me get into University." Daniella is taking English Lanfrom a very small town in an agricultural area and Swindon seems guage and Literature, Art and is quite large for her. "Everybody we helping Ridgeway students with meet is very friendly and helpful," their German studies. "1 like the school a lot, but would prefer to she said. Both girls have settled in easily wear jeans like I do at home. The with their families although they teachers are kind and understandwere told at quite short notice who ing, more friendly than in Austria." they would be living with. They are In the two months that Daniella discovering many new things about and Karen have been in Swindon the British way of life. Both were they have been made very welcome told they would not be impressed and are pleased that they applied to by English cooking, but have found spend a year in another country. the myths untrue. "Vinegar on chips AFS arranges exchanges for young is strange and so is spaghetti on people in 55 countries, allowing the toast. I've discovered sultana bran students and the families they live with to discover more about other which I like a lot," said Daniella. Karen said, "1 really like English cultures and other ways of life. The cooking, but I'm still getting used to organisation is now planning British student departures for August drinking lots of tea." Both girls are pleased by their 1993 and Is looking for families to educational arrangements. "1 like host students from other countries. To find out more, contact Roger the informality at New College and I'm enjoying the courses in History, Ogle on 872282.
Nine nights of celebration Swindon's Hindu Samaj (community) celebrated the annual festival of Navratri at the Link Centre in October, bringing members of the community together for nine nights of prayer, dancing and socialising. The festival is dedicated to one of the many aspects of Shakti Devi Dhurga 'the Goddess' or female energy, also known as Dhurga Puja. The women and girls dressed in colourful, sparkling saris took part in dancing traditional to the Gujarat region of India with the men and boys. Navratri was followed by Diwali, the Festival of Lights, on3l October, the Indian New Year celebration. Pictured above withFreshbrookpha rmacist Sushma Patel are SiyanaHiranifrom Sparcells and Jemini Mehta from Freshbrook
The Link Magazine • November 1992 19
Exchanging 9 year olds When the summer holidays started, nine year old Alexander Ogle expected to return to Freshbrook's WindmfflHillprimazyschoolinSeptember. Instead he found himself amongst a class of twenty fiveFrench ten year olds in Caen, Normandy at the start of a challenging six months living with a French family. He is taking part in a year long exchange arranged by an organisation called En Famille who match British and French families with primary school children who would like to learn another language. In February Alexander will return to Swindon bringing with him his French 'brother' Aurelien who will stay in England until August. Alexander's sisterRosemary went to France in 1991 with her French 'sister' Katiana who also attended Windmill Hill School She returned speaking fluent French and is now following a special course which emphasises writing and grammar arranged for herby French teachers at Greendown. To his parent's surprise Alexander has settled in very easily with the Barre family in Caen and is enjoying himself. "We talk to him on the 'phone once a week and he seems to be very happy," says his mum Ruth Ogle. 'We thought he would be homesick at first, but he's taken it all in his stride. Although he's in a
International get-together
class ahead of his year group, he says the teacher is beinghelpful until he can understand enough French. He's made several friends in school and is playing fora football team for which he has scored a few goals. "He's totally immersed in French and if Rosemary's experience is anything to go by, he will find it difficult to remember English when he returns." Letting a child go away for a six month exchange is a drastic way of introducing him or her to another language and being a parent to an extra boy orgirlcanbe quite a strain. But if a child likes the idea and parents are tolerant, open minded and can plan for another member of the family, the long term benefits of learningFrench and gaining greater cultural awareness cannot be underestimated. To find outmoreaboutEnFamille exchanges, contact Ruth Ogle on 872282. Interviews forexchanges starting inFebruaiywillbetakingplacesoon.
A multi-cultural family fun evening at the beginning of October, the first of its kind in West Swindon, has been hailed as a great success by members oftheSwindonBahaicommunfty who organised it. Shala Dave rpa nahand Marylou Corral with some of the delicious dishes to be tried at the multi-cultural event
Adults and children from many cultures and countries came together for an evening of entertainment including music fromSouth America, a band from Iran and English country dancing. A wonderful variety of food was prepared by the organisers and enjoyed by the 250 people who attended. Joint organiserShala Davarpanah said she and the others who planned the evening were surprised by the enthusiasm to attend. 'We were pleased that so many people from different cultures wanted to come along and spend an evening with each other. It was a great evening." She added that the group was thinkingabouta gathering for World Religion Day in January and another multi-cultural event next year. Siva Rajendran from Eastleaze said she enjoyed the evening a lot. "It's great for our children to learn about the different world cultures." £355 was collected for CALM (Children Cancer & Leukemia Movement).
Supporting Third World business A Westlea home was the venue for a Tearcraft party 13 October to help the Christian based organisation TearFund. A range of craft, decorative and household items were on display for sale Tearcraft projects around the
world ensure the quality and standard of the goods sold and also makes sure its workers are not exploited. Many families depend totally on the income they receive for the items they make to support several generations. The range is large and the
items are all well made and reasonably priced. The quality of the produce sell themselves. For more information about Tear Fund and to see the Tearcraft range, the local representative isJoSoulsby, 44 Moresby Close, Westlea.
AUTUMN PIZZA SPECIAL!!
POzzarama EVERY NIGHT 5pm to 9pm TAKE-AWAY/COLLECT ONLY VISIT OUR SHOP, BUY ANY SUPER SIZE PIZZA, THIN CRUST OR DEEP PAN PAY REGULAR SIZE PRICES!!! A great money saving offer, see enclosed menu for prices Offer must end Sunday 22 November. This offer is not available for home delivery and no vouchers for any other offer will be accepted with this special offer. HOME DELIVERY CUSTOMERS - SEE ENCLOSED MENU FOR FREE GARLIC BREAD OR COLE SLAW OFFER!!
PIZZARAMA • Tel: 874844 Shaw Village Centre, opposite The Village Inn
20 The Link Magazine November 1992
RESIDENTIAL LETTING AGENTS
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At this time of the year we think about Fearing for those who have fought loved ones and fallen for us in the past. by Sheila Mitchell This poem by E.M. Wooldridge. When we listen to the news on the Westlea encourages us to television or radio and hear of the remember them
militatyoperations taking place once again in conflict situations such as in Softly the poppies flutter and fall former Yugoslavia and Iraq it is easy on the heads of those who mourn to dismiss them as being nothing really to do with us. in silence commemorating However, for some of the resiin the Royal Albert Hall. dents of West Swindon the reality of these conflicts affects them every So many cut down in their day. These are the families of the Springtime British servicemen who are involved never to see another dawn in these operations, who risk their lost from a mother's warm embrace or a baby's - newly born. lives every day to help maintain the United Nations commitment. The families live in constant fear Scientists and technologists of bad news concerning their loved we proclaim their skill ones whilst still trying to maintain a doctors struggling to obliterate 'normal' way of life. Living in a diseases which still kill. civilian environment some service families can feel somewhat isolated Fighting still continues when they see their neighbours enpeople killing one another joying life knowing their husband/ men who only yesterday father is away in a conflict situation. called each other brother. However, they bravely carry on, looking forward to the time when The flower of youth are dying he will return home safely, hopein the awful name of war and the question left unanswered fully for more than just a few weeks. Civilians might argue that somewhat for? times theirmenfolk too have to travel away for work and spend large Two minutes silence then amounts of time away from home for those who died that however, seldom are they living and we might live working in life threatening situawho sacrificed their all tions as our servicemen are. and had nothing left to give. So, spare a thought for these brave men who are serving in some of the Lest we forget war torn areas of the world and also the awful tragedy which is war their families who are bravely trylest we forget also ing to cope without them. how primitive we are.
Armistice Day
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f you've got a West Swindon story, give Inc Link magazine a call on 872282
Two West Swindon craftsman are creating reputations based on quality carpentry and building furniture to fit specific needs in local households. Phil Barrett from Eastleaze has been turning to more individual requirements after a period on building sites and James Leckie from Toothill is also returning to more specialised work after spells in roofing and shop fitting. Both served carpentry apprenticeships some years ago and now have considerable experience in finding answers to customer requirements. Phil Barrett commented, 'People often think that their choice of furniture and kitchens is limited to what they see in the big shops. But what's on offer may not do the job they want done; I'm able to supply kitchen units to fit any space or if necessary I'll build a piece of furnihire. James said that the craftsman is able to interpret and bring to life the customer's individual requirements.
"With a little imagination, cabinets, furnitureand fittings can be made to suit any environment. I feel I offer a service that cannot be matched by companies supplyingstandard unitbased bedrooms and kitchens." Both Phil and James will tackle any job where skill, experience and quality work is required. Computer desks, book cases, dining tables, kitchens and bedroom fittings are just a few of the jobs they take on. It's hard to compare costs because they are making furniture to individual requirements, but on the other hand they do not have the high overheads of shops and warehouse suppliers and are able to keep costs down. The only way of finding out whether they can provide you with what you want, rather than having to make do with what is available in the shops, is to call them in for a discussion. Phil Barrett can be contacted on 873003 James Leckie is on 695067.
The Link Magazine • November 1992 21
Letters to The Link Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to the address on page 2. Greendown School From Mr A Cox, Friesan Close, Ramleaze I was delighted to read you October rant, slanted views of this fine school, article regarding the 'all weather they also reported the case as a failsports pitch' case. The comments of ure. I would like to congratulate headJudge Susan Darwall-Smith were full of common sense and wisdom. master Mr Ian Matthews and his I appreciate your own difficult staff on the excellent results achieved position ineditinga story regarding this year, both in the classroom and the school of which you are chair of in Swindon Crown Court. the board of governors. That said, I Perhaps our local media will also feel strongly that the headline was now have the decency to reassess an error - why so negative? Surely Greendownandtheirachievements this should have been reported as a and offer support to the school in the victory for common sense and our future. Perhaps the Evening Adverchildren's futures - not as a failure tiser would consider sponsoring fu on behalf of a whinging bunch of ture Greendown projects - surely hyper-sensitive residents. the finest local advertising that pubWe are all too well aware of the lication is ever likely to achieve! Swindon Evening Advertiser's ignoIs vandalism on the increase in West Swindon? From Jim Strutton, Rochford Close, Grange Park I would like to bring to your atten- has recently been replaced, after the tion my concern over the condition originalwas wrecked within months of the public spaces in West Swin- of it being erected. Also, the bus don. shelter on Sudely Way has been It would seem that the amount of smashed recently, leaving glass evevandalism and damage is on the rywhere. increase. For examples, there's the And over the weekend of 24/25 instances of paint thrown over October, four tall solid steel lamp houses, fences and other areas in posts were destroyed on the Shaw Rochford Close and Tyndale Path Ridge footpath. recently. Whilst these are private Somebody must see or at least property, albeit in areas accessed heard this damage going on? from roads and public footpaths, In this time of financial difficulty, many other areas in public owner- the last thing we need is an increase ship are also affected. in bills to pay for repairs or the reOn the Shaw Ridge open space, moval of paint. This applies as much the children's play area has been to the public as to the private purse. damaged to an extent that it must Interestingly, I read of a case of a soon be shut for repairs on the householder in the North East, who grounds that it is dangerous. The has managed to get video footage of fences and plants around the play these and other criminal acts and area have also been completely de- passed them on to the authorities. stroyed in many places, as have Maybe we West Swindon resiplants and trees over the whole area. dents should take a leaf from this We are very fortunate to have a gentleman's book and report any large network of footpaths around acts that we see to the Police. At the area, but how many of the sign- least then the perpetrators can be posts havenowbeendamaged? This sued for the repairs, rather than leavmakes them either useless, because ing it to the Community Charge they point in the wrong direction. payer to cough up, yet again. Or, in many cases they are now toNow perhaps my views are out of tally missing, having been ripped fashion or not in line with current out of the ground, complete with a thinking, or is there is some agreesizable concrete block. The bus stop ment out there? I would welcome sign opposite the Tregoze School any comments or suggestions.
Craft Fayre Sunday 22 November, 11am - 5pm Commonweal School, The Mall, Swindon Free. Over 50 stalls of handcrafted items. Father Christmas
©
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THEGRANDEVENT AT
The Chinese Experience has been successfully running for almost two years this Christmas. We want our customers to celebrate with us. During November, for first 50 people who arrive between 6pm and 7pm on Wednesday, Thursday* or Friday evenings, will receive: A two course meal and karaoke competition, prizes include a weekend of two in Swindon's exclusive De Vere Hotel and bottles of sparkling wine. & FREE ENTRANCE (with transport provided) to Swindon's popular nightclubs Cairos and Hardings.
ALL THIS FOR A RIDICULOUS PRICE OF £5.95 PER HEAD Come and Join the Fun!!! Dress Smart *excluding Thursday 5 November
TEL: (0793) 512550
Telephone 877888 to Take Away the superb, authentic cuisine of the Chinese Experience. Available 7 days a week 5.30pm - 10pm
Local Lives
22
New police commander with different background Swindon is making a contribution to the return of Hong Kong to China in 1997 by giving one of its policeman the chance to broaden his experience in police work Superintendant Charles Wong arrived in July to take over command of the Swindon North subdivision, which includes WestSwindon, as part of programme to build up the experience and strength of the Hong Kong police force. For several years senior police officers have been sent on two year secondments to different UK police forces. When he returns at the end of 1994, Hong Kong will be just three and half years from being returned to China after many years as a British colony and renowned economic powerhouse of the Far East. Nobody knows what might happenbut thejointdeclaration between Britain and China states that the administrative arrangements in
Sharp Sand £25.70 m3
place will be continued. The law codes are broadly the same and although there will be change as a result of Hong Kong's handover, Supt. Wong says the aim is to have a strong and effective police force to cope with whatever arises. 'There was an initial panic and a lot of people left Hong Kong a few years ago when the agreements between Britain and China were signed," he said. "But the Hong Kong economy continues to be strong and some of the people who left are returning." Supt. Wong joined the police 14 years ago after 4 years in the Immigration Service. His wife is also a police officer and is taking unpaid leave to studying law in Britain. His reception and impressions of police work in this country are very favourable. "Swindon is a lot quieter compared with the high rise environmentofHongKong. We employ many more policemen and women
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because they have patrol vertically as well as horizontally. "I was surprised how accepted police officers are here; there's often a friendly greeting in the street. I've attended a number of Neighbourhood Watch meetings and I'm impressed by the pro-police culture here which we're trying to develop, but generally Hong Kong peopie are suspicious of the police. "Swindon feels safe and all areas are accessible to the public. The beat officers here know their areas well and take the initiative in workingoutaresponse to problems, for example planning and mounting surveillance operations. In Hong Kong policemen expect to be directed more by senior officers and there are area that even the police will approach with caution. "I amconcerned about the amount of drunkenness and senseless behaviour here. I'm dealing with reports of damage, domestic violence and injury resulting from excessive use of alcohol. However the level of serious crime is lower. I'm used to a much higher number of muggings, armed robbery and violent attacks targeted at specific individuals us-
ing knives. It's often quite messy. We were being successful in cutting the crime rate but the influx of guns from China and Vietnam has reversed the trend." Supt. Wong is having to spend a lotoftimelearningtherequirements of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act which determines how the police should behave. Whilst the definition of theft in both countries is the same, the powers of the police and the way they are allowed to carry out their duties is different. Whilst off duty Supt Wong and his wife have been visiting different town and touring the countryside by bus. With Hong Kong's efficient mass rapid public transport system, he does not have to drive. So he's amazed by the cost of buses here and spends in a day what it might cost in a week at home. Generally he finds the cost of living much higher here and misses going out to eat delicious Chinese food three or four times a week However he enjoys the good old traditionalpub. "We've visited quite a few and like their cosy atmosphere."
The Link Classifieds
Lineage costs 20p per word Inc. VAT. Cash with advert to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon
Vacancy
Domestic cleaner required. Peatmoor area. 6 hrs per week. £3 per hour. Tel: 874166
Your new driveway or patio could be installed in just a few days CONVENTIONAL CONCRETE OR TARMAC CAN SOON DETERIORATE. By employing brand new construction techniques and using specially developed materials and equipment, we can install your new drive, patio, pool surround, in a beautiful range of patterns and colours that strikingly reproduce the appearance of slate, stone or bricks, and will not sink or spread. You can choose from London cobble to random stone, to match any surroundings. The resultant sealed surface is totally weed free, and oil stains simply wash away. TM
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Offers of a loan or low cost second hand machine welcome. Line differentiation and Mercury desirable. Tel: 872282 Learn a Language
German, Italian, French, Danish Individual or group tuition Tel: 881 828 after 5pm or weekends Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096
Mrs White, Freshbrook
Washing Machine Repairs
• Same Day Service • Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, ______ u-a helpful service, call J. Martin
Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill
Santa Suit for Hire from Westlea Playgroup Tel: 613238
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The Link Magazine November 1992 23
Women's ordination supported Spontaneous applause from the congregationatToothillChurehgreeted an invitation by Rev. Anne Thomas to attend her ordination as a minister. Her tongue in cheek invitation was made at her final service on 11 Octoberbefore departing to work in Birmingham. She gave the address and spoke of her hopes and expectations of the vote on the ordination of women at the Church of England General Synod in November.
Anne, as a member of the West Swindon Ecumenical Project team, was a deaconess at Toothill Church for five years and ordination into the priesthood would allow her to conduct communion. Helen Drummond, the United Reformed Church minister in the team who left Shaw Church at the end of September, regularly administered communion in traditional Anglican churches at Lydiard Park and Lydiard Millicent.
Woman working for God Ann Hall of Toothill Church reports on a Freshbrook resident who has been ordained as a Minister
Many people will remember Brenda Wilson and her daughter who lived in Freshbrook between 1980 and 1988. Brenda, pictured right, was very active in the community and helped start a playgroup, a toy library and Bible study group for young mothers. She was at the forefront of a campaign to retain land fora church in Freshbrook when the local council proposed to sell the allocated site and was founder member of Freshbrook Church. Later she was active in Toothill church and helped the Girls' Brigade, the Sunday School, a Bible study group and the member of the church committee. She did all this in spite of the fact that her husband left her when Debbie was two years old. About 1985 Brenda felt called to be a minister. At first she thought it would beimpossible, beinga women and a single parent with a young child. But gradually the way opened up for her and 1988 she was accepted forNorthern Baptist College, Manchester where she and Debbie moved. After four years training, she took a degree in theology at Manchester University and in July this year she was ordained to the Christian ministry. A small group of friends from Toothill Church attended a beautiful and moving service where
Worsley Road
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Sund'y lOam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050
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Community Suite Link Centre Water play, Collage, sponge & potato printing, playdough, reading corner Free. Everyone welcome. Brenda confirmed herfaith and those attendingprayed that the HolySpirit would fill her with wisdom, love and power. Brenda has obtained a postas Free ChurchMinisteratHolyFamlyEcumenical Church on the deprived Blackbird Leys estate in Oxford. Brenda expects that her workwillbe hard, but feels that being a woman and a single parent willbean advantage. She has received a warm welcom from the Anglican vicar, leaders of the church and the local community worker. All her friends in West Swindon will be pleased that Brenda has answered God's call to be a Christian minister.
someone in a structured way, you can look at where the blockages are in life and workout how to deal with them. It's part of rediscovering purpose and rega ining control over ones life." Deciding to make a change can be the hardest part of recognising the situation you find yourself in. To help people focus a little, Bob Emmett is offering to meet anybody who would like to talk about personal counselling and therapy for an initial private consultation without charge. To contact him, telephone 740443.
Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist.
Will give YOU a warm welcome
Tuesday 10 November lOam - 12noon
Counselling can help overcome blockages For some people the pressures and demands of life can become overwhelming. Finding help and support can be difficult if you don't have anybody around to talk to, or you do not want to open up to people you know. RobertErnmettfromSwindonhas twenty years counselling experience in helping people look at their lives and take control. "Stress, emotional demands and worries about work, or the lack of it, can trap people," says Bob. "Feelings of boredom, lack of confidence and energy drain one of motivation. By talking to
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