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THE

No. 174 • November 1996 • Circulation 16,500

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Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park & Abbey Meads

the positive newsforce in West and North Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

• • • • • • •

Cars Saloons Automatics Estates Vans Mini-buses Latest vehicles

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Swindon's new look SwinDon

Designer Martin Warnes explains how he came up with Swindon's new logo on page 2

SWrnDOTI BOROUGH COURCIL

Enter our three fantastic competitions • Win a copy of 'The Making of Emma,' published by Penguin Books, in advance of lTVs new Jane Austen drama at the end of November. Turn to page 12. + Win a Pudsey Bear and have your picture taken with a personality for next month's Link magazine on Children in Need Day, 22 November. Details on page 16. •. Win a trip to the biggest kids party ever at the NEC. We have 5 family passes worth £20 each, to the Children's BBC Big Bash to give away. Green's 'Fun to Bake place' was one the busiest stands at last year's Big Bash. We have 10 Fun to Bake prize packs for the runner ups. See page 25.

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The Link Magazine • November 1996

Same Day Local Electrical Services o House wiring & wiring checks O Electrical repairs O Immersions O Shower repaired/installed O Extra sockets/lights O Security lighting O Alarm systems o Electrical supplies O Approved Contractor

Thamesdown to Swindon: new objectives, NOW logo Change is in the air locally as Thamesdown Borough Council prepares to take on a wider range of local government responsibilities, a new name and a new logo. The Link invited Martin Warnes, one of Europe's leading independent corporate ID specialists, to explain how a new logo will project the towns new image.

of research, analysis How logos work pany we know and design, includLogos are used by an organisation rather than one we ing over 60 hours of know little or nothin two basic ways: interviews prior to • to identify its products and ing about. For exany design work. ample, given the confirm its reputation With the word choice between buy• to send out a signal to let 'Swindon' needing to people know it has changed ing a Sony or Matsui A&M Services take on the much video recorder, most 24 hour response wider context of Logos as confirmation would (all other nearly the whole of Research shows that we are far things being equal) I (01111(;ll .Rted north east Wiltshire more likely to buy from a corn- choose the Sony and not just the town, product. The Sony logo on the front of the video plays I felt it highly desirable, relevant Mobile freelance hairdresser a major part in that decision. It and necessary for the logo design helps us identify that it is made by to counter the solely industrial imin West Swindon t Sony and by conferring the com- age that Swindon has acquired, pany's image and reputation onto and highlight the truly rural as12 years experience • Very reasonable rates the product. Organisations spend pect of Swindon (as in Appointments available weekdays or evening millions of pounds building up 'Swindonshire'), and project the area's strong roots, solid growth, the 'profile' of their logos. (new number) flourishing community and enviable logistic position in the UK. Logos as a signal of change The almost heraldic Swindon When organisations evolve and change it is important that they let logo, made up of converging lines, people know. Advertising is one is most likely to be seen as a stylFirst lesson £5 method of doing so, but unfortu- ized tree with its 'S' letter entwined Individual Tuition nately advertising is expensive and in its heart. The logo therefore doesn't necessarily get to the peo- embodies within it all of the above Theory Test Material ) ALAN COLLICT ple it wishes to inform. Another mentioned characteristics. The Block Booking Discount way to signal change is to do so main colour of the ID, a deep orC Tel: 01793 872244 through a dramatic change of logo ange was chosen for its positiveIn West Swindon since 1978 • 8 Featherwood, Westiea, Swindon and how the logo appears on the ness, energy, warmth, matureness, many thousands of items (letters, ripeness and visibility - so the leaflets, signs, vehicles etc.) it uses Council can be seen at work. Soon you will see the new logo to directly communicate to its cusbegin to appear all over the Bortomers - its corporate ID. ough on signs, vehicles, community centres, forms and leaflets etc. Swindon's new logo Chinese Cuisine, English Food and Fish & Chips When Thamesdown Borough The attributes and visual signals Council was granted unitary sta- built into the new logo will, I am Telephone Orders tus (becoming a mini county) and sure with time, help to inspire all welcome before 11pm decided to change its name to that who work for the new Council and of its largest town, it was decided live in the area, and perhaps OPEN HOME DELIVERY that the best and most economical awaken outsiders, to the progresSunday 6pm - 1130pm method of signalling the vast sive and wonderful area the new Monday Closed SERVICE Tuesday 5pm- 1130pm changes would be through its logo Borough of Swindon is to live. Eves only: 5pm - 10pm Wed 12noon - 145pm 5pm - 1130pm • Martin Warnes has created over 150 and corporate ID. Delivery in W Swindon: £1 Thurs 12noon - 145pm 5pm - 1130pm IDs for international, national and What should a logo for SwinDelivery to other areas £1.50 Friday 12noon - 145pm 5pm - 1145pm don, the mini county, project? To local clients, many of which are houseSaturday 12noon - 145pm 5pm - 1145pm Toothill Village Centre find out I carried out a programme hold names. Toothill Swindon Open Bank Holiday Monday from 5pm

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Copy date for December/ January edition: 16 November

Published: 30 November Published by West Swindon Publications

Editorial: Roger Ogle Publisher/Editor

13 Castle Dore Fresh brook, Swindon SN5 8PQ

lk Apple Macintosh design,

Tel: (01793) 872282

layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol

Fax: (01793) 878189

Published monthly.

Copy for February: 13 January The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Contents 4 5 6 8 10 11

Toothill Westlea Shaw & Roughmoor Freshbrook & Grange Park Haydon Wick Abbey Meads At Your Library 12 14-15 Recreation 19-21 Swindon Wide 22-29 News & Views 30 Letters to The Link 31 Local Lives

"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 a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It commenced distribution in North Swindon in Janua 1 9

TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK CALL (01793) 872282

The Link Magazine • November 1996

Was tragedy inevitable?

LOOSE ENDS

The sad death of Ashley Johnson of Toothill, on Whitehill Way when crossing from the West Swindon Centre to the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park on 28 September, once again highlights the dangers to pedestrians in this car borne society. Now, his mother Diane wants positive action taken to make the road safer. Ashley, who distributed The Link with his mum in the summer, was not crossing at a random point. Where he was fatally hit is an official crossing point included in the design of the leisure park. Yet highway planners permitted a gap in the fence for a footway, with drop curbs on both sides of the road, but did not require any kind of driver warning signs. Martha Parry from Grange Park, manager of the Link Centre community suite in 1989 was involved in the public consultation exercise at the park planning stage. 'A lot of mothers made it clear they would not use the underpass. Their demands were achieved but Wiltshire road planners refused to put in a proper controlled crossing point. They were only concerned with drivers' needs." In the February 1989 Link report on the consultation, Sheila Cracknell from Freshbrook expressed concern about Whitehill Way traffic and the need for good pedestrian access to and from the park. She said, "I think the needs of people on foot have been underestimated; the plans seem to be geared up for the car driver. The majority of pedestrians will have to use a poorly lit, often flooded underpass.

In memory of Ashley Two events in aid of the John Radcliffe Intensive Care Unit: • Ridgeway School sponsored trampoline on 16 November, 8am to 8pm, in the Link Centre. Money can be donated on the day. • Adult disco at the Moonrakers Pub, 21 November. Tickets from 644271. • The petition calling for a safe crossing on Whitehill Way can be signed in the West Swindon Centre and at Video Solent.

planners argument that the road did not have the criteria for a pelican crossing." A Thamesdown spokesman said road engineers have recently been looking at Whitehill Way for a controlled crossing. A report will be considered as soon as possible. Over 1,500 people have signed Diane Johnson's petition for a pelican crossing which she hopes will spur the council to act quickly. "The leisure park draws people to it, access has to be made safer." All that remains on the site are fading flowers and crash investigation paint on the road. How many of the thousands of drivers who pass each day will be aware of the fatal accident that killed Ashley? And getting across to Pizza Hut looks hazardous." Thamesdown's Leisure Officer John Fisher, manager of the Link Centre at the time, was a member of the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park development team. "I recall a lot of discussion about pedestrian access to the park. We wanted peoeo ple to move between the two sites, butT campaigned for a strong fence so that pedestrians would be restricted to a recognised route. I could never understand the county

We have two large barns full of top quality furnishing fabrics (often more than 50 metres) which are the ends of ranges. Also wallpapers. All are from leading manufacturers at greatly reduced prices. Wlzy not come and see us? Sue Cutciffe. Giles Green, Brinkworth, Nr Chippenham. Tel: 01666 510685 Open Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm

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Thank you Diane Johnson would like to express her heartfelt thanks to all her neighbours, Ashley's friends and other people she has never met for their cards, poems, flowers and thoughts which have helped her and her family. She is very grateful for the kindness and support received.

Choosing a secondary school Parents are entitled to correct information Last month The Link magazine published details of proposed changes in secondary school admission arrangements being considered by Wiltshire County Council. This will guarantee a place at a secondary school based on the primary school that a child attends, rather than on where the child lives which has been the case up to now. Unfortunately the Evening Advertiser, picking up The Link story, confused the issue in an editorial by mistakenly turning the proposal around.

The proposed changes in admission procedure comes about because of the increasing numbers of children in West and North Swindon. Schools are being consulted about the proposals. Swindon Council's shadow education committee will consider a report on 8 November before it is put before Wiltshire's education committee. The closing date when parents have to state their choice of school has been extended to 6 January, and they will be told of their allocation by 27 January.

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Friends get organised A recent raffle, organised by the newly formed Friends of Phoe-

nix Surgery (FOPS), at Toothill's Phoenix Surgery raised £207. "The response from our patients was marvellous", said Dr Peter Swinyard. "The money raised will go towards buying extra medical equipment and patient comforts." Forthcoming events include a hairdressing day on 3 December, when a qualified hairdresser will be in the surgery all day to cut patients' hair for £3.50, or do a complete restyle for £8.50. A Christmas raffle is also planned, along with coffee mornings at the surgery. "We are trying to foster a sense

of community among our patients and make the surgery a centre which offers a welcome even when people are not ill. One of the aims of FOPS is to create a pool of volunteers to help less able people with lifts to the surgery or hospital and with other odd jobs" said Dr Swinyard. For further information telephone the surgery on 433211 and speak to Peter or Caryl Swinyard, or receptionists, Wendy, Gaynor or Dianne. Or fax the surgery on 433903.

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Community bank and Lions clubs keep family links close A grandmother from Toothill was reunited with her long lost son for the third time in October. On 16 October The Link was invited to meet Joan Hillard-Reid and her son Keith Porter, the day that he became a grandfather and she became a great-grandmother. Three years ago Keith, who had been taken to South Africa by his father in 1945 when he was only a few years old, discovered through the Red Cross that Joan was still alive. Keith had been told she had been killed in a war time bombing raid. Memories came flooding back in South Africa and in Swindon. But Joan was only convinced she was finding her long lost son during their first telephone conversation, when Keith told her about a scar on his leg caused by a hot water bottle in his pram during World War II. Not only had Keith found a mother, he discovered he had a step brother Chris and a step sister-in-law, Janet who also lived in Toothill at the time. An emotional reunion took place at Heathrow in the public glare of the media, but Keith's story was contracted to a South African magazine and he could not be interviewed or pictured with Joan. Speaking for the first time to a British publication, Keith told The Link that 1993 had been a tumultuous year. "My father had died in June, then the company where I was employed went bust and I was out of a job. Then the news came through that my mother was alive; it was just amazing," he said. "It was a truly memorable Christmas to meet Joan after all those years." De Grendel Lions club of Cape Town helped him with the flight

to Britain and six months later Lions clubs in West Swindon and Wootton Bassett helped Joan and husband Bill travel to South Africa to visit Keith, his wife Yvonne and their four sons. As members of Toothill Credit Union Joan and Bill turned to the local community bank for help with spending money. "The Lions were wonderful, but there was no way we could afford to see Keith and his family without help from the credit union," said Joan. "We'd been savers for some years and it was there to help us out when we needed a loan. "Keith and I share the same birthday and he decided to come over for a joint celebration. October 7 is also the day I married Bill eight years ago and we had a lovely family party. It really is wonderful to see Keith again." • Find out how Toothill Credit Union could help you by calling Sherie on 421467 (eves). • West Swindon Lions can be contacted on 771822 or 527364

Prop man's martian ready to impress The creative reputation of a theatre set and props maker from Toothill is spreading across Europe. Tony Ford from Kirkstall Close, who worked at the Wyvern Theatre until three years ago is much in demand in Germany, Spain and France. His talents are being called upon to build unusual theatre props and special effects, conference sets and exhibition stands. Tony's creative impulses will be on display at Pudsey's space station on Children In Need Day on 22 November. His friendly giant martian made from foam rubber and spray paint will be welcoming visitors to BT headquarters at North Star. He will also have a hand in designing and building the communications time tunnel.

Tony Ford wit/i his 12 foot giant

WES I LEA Christmas Fair Saturday 23 November, 2pm - 4pm Westlea School Stalls, auction, refreshments

Christmas Bazaar Friday 29 November 2pm-4pm George & Ann Tweed Room, Westlea School

Organised by Friends of Westlea School

Toys, books, crafts, stalls Organised by Westlea Playgroup

Outdoor learning Sixty children at Westlea School spent Saturday 12 October discovering more about their environment. Organised by headteacher Neil butterfly garden, identified plants, Griffiths in conjunction with teach- made bird cake and explored a ers, staff from Thamesdown park nearby stream. "The children had a lot of fun rangers and play workers, parents and ex-pupils, groups of children finding out more about the envispent sessions trying out different ronment and discovering things about their school grounds," said fun activities. They built bird boxes, created a Mr Griffiths. Making bird boxes with guidance from Thamesdown park rangers Tom Murawicki and Phil Dean,from left, Tom Ryman, Peter Mallory, Laura Webb, Helen Knox, Claire O'Sullivan. Rear centre, Kris Read

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After school club marks up five Westlea After School Club celebrated its fifth birthday on 23 October with a party for its 45 children, staff and past members. The club opened on three afternoons a week with eight children in the Sunshine Room at Westlea School in October 1991. Within a year the club management committee secured funding to offer care to children of working parents every afternoon of the week. All day holiday care followed and then a one hour breakfast session was opened. "It's been a really exciting time," said club supervisor Cherry Hobbs. "Westlea After School Club has established itself as an essential resource for working parents in the area." Cherry Hobbs holds up a fifth birthday cake with help from Alex Barber and Stephanie Purslow

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Harvest auction proceeds for Prospect

Brook Field players bring St John family of Lydiard back to life

The harvest festival collection at Shaw Ridge School was so bountiful that it raised £300 for the Prospect Hospice and Macmillan Nurses. Donated items were auctioned amongst parents and staff. So that A cast of over thirty year 6 chileverybody could take part two festivals had to be held. dren from Brook Field School Prospect Hospicefundraiser David Roberts is pictured receiving a chequefrom rounded off a two week exploraShaw Ridge children tion of Lydiard Park by the whole school, in a world premiere of a costume drama 'The Golden Cavalier' on 16 October. Written by Greendown School : teacher Tim Noble and played to a packed house of parents in the Greendown drama studio, the story set in Civil War 1645 tells of a family split by conflicting loyalties to the Crown and Parliament, I,! greed, ambition and love. / The children had rehearsed the ambitious 60 minute play since the beginning of term and received rapturous applause for their work.

The main players pictured on ourfronl page, rear left to right, Luke Bowns, Robert Mawden, John Kikar, Ales Amies. Middle, Anna Hirsch-Holland, Samantha Kingsbury, James Boswell, Katy Colley. Front, Louise Hooper, Simon Dowling, Daniel Nardini

Play space worries

DECOTEX

A new play area in Sparcells has proved very popular, but residents want to know if a controversial extension has now been scrapped.

Property Maintenance Painter & Decorator • Specialist Artexing

Telephone: (01793) 791388

PICK UP A NEW SKILL THIS AUTUMN! Whatever you plan this autumn, make sure you take a look at our range of short courses. Designed with you in mind, just a few hours a week on one of our courses could help you get a new job, brush up on your skills or simply learn new ones!

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ComDuters available on certain mornings, afternoons or evenings at

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New College, Heiston Road, Park North, Swindon, SN3 2LA

Joyce Kirk-Browne centre with Sparcells youngsters, left to right, Danielle Reynolds, Jody Reynolds (top), Nick Stevens, Amy Nurdin

Residents protested last year against an ambitious scheme put forward by Thainesdown to build enclosed play areas for toddlers and for 6 to 12s, and an all weather kickabout space. The play areas in the middle of the Sparcells Drive open space were accepted but residents resolutely opposed the kickabout space just yards from houses, fearing it would attract outsiders who would bring vandalism, nuisance, alcohol and drug taking. Last November's Link magazine reported that councillors had agreed to put the kickabout space on hold pending further consultations with residents. Joyce Kirk-Browne who lives next to the open space said she did not know the council's latest plans. "The play areas are popular and the children play football on the grassed area; everybody is happy. It's overlooked and we know the

local children. The safe environment we have would be put in jeopardy if lots of outsiders are attracted to the area." However one mother who does not want to be named said that teenagers who do not live in Sparcells already hang around the play area. Her son avoids going there after being threatened. Thamesdown Council landscape architect Matthew Hawkins told The Link that the hard play proposal had been scrapped. Goal posts are to be installed on the grass and a basketball net put up if the budget permits. He added that shrub planting around the play areas will take place during the autumn. And what do the local users think: "We play here everyday after school. It was great in the summerholidays," AmyNurdin. "The spiders web climbing frame is the best," Danielle Reynolds.

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Bovis Homes Limited, South West Region, Bovis House, Lansdown Road, Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL50 2JA. Telephone: 01242 222211 Fax: 01242 232943 YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT. Full terms and conditions of the WIN-WIN scheme are available on selected plots at the developments above and it is only available through the Bovis Homes Mortgage Desk. The housetypes above may be built in a range of elevational finishes. The photograph shows one example. Any landscaping shown is merely to create an impression. Prices correct at time of going to press and purchasers should enquire about availability, external finishes and prices of specific properties.

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

eA 14 D

Playgroup invites first members for photo call The popular playgroup also held a party on 24 October with a birthday cake, bouncy castle and face painting.

Freshbrook Village Centre

Greendown Playgroup celebrated its tenth anniversary by inviting six of the very first children who attended in 1986 to join them for a photograph.

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Pictured amongst the 48 children currently attending the playgroup in the Len Hobbs Suite at Greendown School are year 9 Greendown students,front left to right Rebecca Sell, Paul Colyer, Gemma Edwards; rear, Russell Veal, Alex Ogle, Chris Williams.

Open: Monday Tues, Wed Thursday Friday Saturday

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Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm 215pm -6pm Saturday 9am - 12noon

Table Top Sale. Saturday 9 November, 2pm • Freshbrook Community Centre Tables £5. Charity groups £3 To book, call 872450

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Fireworks & Bonfire Displays Friday 1 November, 7pm. Gates open 6.30pm St Mary's Church, Lydiard Park Free parking from Hay Lane entrance Soup, hotdogs & drinks. Tickets: £2, 5 - 15 year olds £1 Organised by St Mary's in aid of Schools Outreach

Saturday 2 November. Bonfire 6pm. Fireworks 7pm Events field, Lydiard Park Free car park from Hook Street entrance Adults £3. Children £1 (free before 6pm) Organised by 1st Purton & Lydiard Scouts

Tuesday 5 November. Gates 6pm Fireworks only, 6.30pm Oliver Tomkins Schools. Beaumaris Road, Toothill Family ticket (2 adults & up to 4 children), £5 Adults £4, children £1. Refreshments available No sparklers, no unaccompanied children Organised by Friends of Oliver Tomkins Schools

Tuesday 5 November Gates open & refreshments from 5.45pm. Start 6.30pm Westlea School, Langstone Way, Westlea Tickets on sale at school. Adults £2, children £1 Organised by Friends of Westlea School

Tuesday 5 November. Gates open 5.30pm Brook Field School, Cartwright Drive, Shaw Barbecue, refreshments, fair ride Tickets in advance: £1, child 50p, family £3 On the gate: £1.50, child 50p, family £4

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Swindon 873369 "Representative Only of CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only. CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC is regulated by the Personal Investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business'. Credit brokefi toes of UP to 1% on the advance may be charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period. Rate applied is 2.09%PA (2.4% APR) to, one year. APR Is variable. Rates may vary. A written quotason on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to persons t8 years ot age or over. Subject to status. Subject to our current lending criteria. A 4.9% reduction applied to the vUrlUbta base mortgage rate, currently 6.99%. Those applicants benetltting from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within tour years Iron, the data of completion will be charged an additional six months interest. This charge will be reimbursed It a new mortgage is then token out with the Society. Example:A marled couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year term (300 monthly payments), completing before 31 September 1996 secured against a property being purchased lot £55,0D0, 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tau of £79.24. Monthly endowment premium of £74.96. Total amount payable 1296,415. Calculated to include valuation tee £155. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the leon of the loan. Maximum loan £t 50.0DO. The 2.09% rate applies to towns up to and including 95% of the purchase price on valuation, whichever is the lower. The discounted rate is applicable to, one year, after which the than current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing more than 75% the Society will require additional security. This is usually in the tom, of P155 Charge.

REMEMBER: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT

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Emmanuel United Reformed Church in High Street, Haydon Wick will be holding a service of rededication of the church buildings on Saturday 2 November, 11am, followed by lunch. During the last two months alterations have included a new vestry, a new meeting room and enlargement to the main entrances of the church.

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Mission Roman iafundraiser Eric Hodges is pictured bottom left with Haydon Leigh children and their collection

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year when a container has been filled. Eric Hodges, chief fundraiser for Mission Romania said he could not thank the children enough for thinking of others who are worse off than they are.

J.F.K. BUILDING SERVICES

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Haydon Leigh School donated its harvest festival collection to Mission Romania at an assembly for parents on 11 October. The tinned and dry foods will be shipped out to orphanages and hospitals in Romania early next

Do you have a Haydon Wick or Abbey Meads story for The Link? Call Diane Mason on 723804

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Bowls club concert Haydon Wick Bowls Club present music for everyone to enjoy. Tickets at £3 are available now The Kennet Accordion Orchestra in concert at the Haydon centre on from bowls club members or centre reception or call D Edmonds on Saturday 9 November at 8pm. With a repertoire ranging from 728517 or D Harper on 644239. light classical to film and TV Jumble Sale themes and songs from the shows, the orchestra will play a variety of Tuesday 12 November, 3.1 5pm Moredon Infants Schol Akers Way Jumble, nearly new, bric-a-brac, toys and books Organised by Friends of Moredon Infants School

Local environment annual meeting

Seven Fields Conservation Group is celebrating another successful year of keeping the local environment green and pleasant at its AGM on Tuesday 19 November, 7.30pm at the Haydon Centre. Guest speaker Simon Smith, Wiltshire County Manager of the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, will be addressing the meeting on Seven Fields Habitats how we got them and how we keep them. The meeting is open to all local residents and anyone interested in the work of the group. Nominations to the committee are welcomed from Greenmeadow, Haydon Wick and Abbey Meads. The group is particularly keen to attract people from Abbey Meads interested in the environment. Congratulations to Marilyn Beale, stalwart secretary of the Seven Fields Conservation Group who recently received a prestigious Queen Mother's Birthday Award from the Tidy Britain Group for her work in the community and in the local environment.

Table top sale Saturday 16 November, 2pm Haydon Centre Organised in aid of 1st Swindon Sea Scouts. To book a table or for more information contact Tony Kilburn on 534982 or Wendy Harman on 725825 Christmas Bazaar Saturday 16 November, 2pm Emmanuel UR Church High Street, Haydon Wick Many stalls, Christmas decorations, Father Christmas Christmas Bazaar Saturday 23 November 11am - 1pm Hreod Parkway School, South Hall, Akers Way Many stalls, jumble sale, steel band and refreshments Christmas Bazaar Saturday 30 November lOam - 12.30pm Haydon Centre Organised by Haydon Wick Bowling Club in aid of clubhouse building fund

ABBEY MEADS

First christening at new church Abbey Meads Church of Christ the Servant Church welcomed its first baby when Vikki McNeil was christened by Deaconess Maureen Spinks on 20 October, just two days after her first birthday. The service was the third after the church was inaugurated at an open air gathering in September when Maureen was licenced. It took place in at 1 Hayward Close, Maureens family home, which acts as a worship centre until a permanent church. Vikki McNeil with proud mum Sheila

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New toddler group to start Abbey Meads Tuesday parent and toddler group has become quite busy since it started on 12 September, with a fifteen mums and toddlers attending. So Dss Maureen Spinks is launching another group

which will meet on Thursday mornings from 19 November. Both groups will meet between lOam and 1130pm at 1 Hayward Close. For more information, call 706558.

Doctor still delayed The prospect of a doctors surgery at Abbey Meads village centre is still stuck in negotiations between the Haydon Development Company, the owners of the site, Thamesdown planners and the Health Authority. There has been a temporary surgery available, in storage since June, which the Penhill and Central practice could move into, but the temporary site overlaps the site for the permanent building. Nothing is going very far until the problems can be resolved.

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Buying a multimedia computer? How do you find the one which best meets your needs? A computer is essentialfor education, work and to put you in touch with the rest of the world, and it's probably the single most expensive item in the home. Choosing the right one can be tricky, time-consuming and stressful. Now MacFriendly and Apple Computer have made deciding an enjoyable and exciting experience, by giving you the chance to try an Apple Macintosh computer

in your own home. A MacFriendly Technology Partner will provide a Macintosh demonstation, giving you and your family the chance to test drive leading multimedia programmes at your convenience, without the pressure, the jargon or the hype.

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Once purchased and delivered, you will receive help to set up your Mac and one hour's tuition.

If you're planning to buy a computer for Christmas, you won't go wrong with a Mac. To book a demonstration, call Roger Ogle on (01793) 872282

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AT YOUR LIBRARY

Place full of surprises! The library aims to serve the local community and may be used by non-members as well as members, writes Vicki Moore. Joining could not be easier. You need to live or work in Wiltshire and have proof of address with you. Under 16's need someone to sign for them (a parent or guardian), but there is no minimum age to join. There's so much on offer, everyone can find something. If you thought the library only loaned books, then think again. We have spoken word cassettes (also known as talking books), for those without time for reading. You can hire them for just 60p for three weeks, or free to those re-

ceiving certain benefits. For music lovers we have music cassettes and CDs. Hired at 60p for one week or £1 for three weeks, you can indulge yourself in your favourite sounds whether popular, classical, folk or jazz. Alternatively, videos on many different subjects canbehired from keep fit to Canada, and from Jane Eyre to juggling, not to mention the popular children's selection. Hire charges are 60p for one week or £1 for three weeks. Whether you need help with

by Roger Ogle, Publisher of The Link It's now essential to have access to a computer to keep in touch with technology, but it's easy to become overwhelmed by what's on offer. There are so many kinds of computers available and great claims are made for each one. The bewildering jargon, the different specifications and the speed of change makes the choice very confusing. A national organisation called MacFriendly has made buying an Apple Macintosh computer enjoyable, convenient and cost-effective. MacFriendly Technology Partners give you and your family the chance to try a Macintosh with multimedia programmes at your convenience in the relaxing environment of the home. The demonstration gives you the time to talk about your requirements and for both adults and children to have a go at exploring the possibilities on offer. Apple Macintosh computers are renowned for their ease of use, their standards for innovation and performance. There's a great range of multimedia programmes available, covering a tremendous variety of applications suitable for school work, running a business from home, exploring encyclopaedias on CD, playing 'infotainment' games and surfing the Internet. Having produced The Link magazine on a Macintosh for the last eight years, I have joined the MacFriendly network of Technology Partners to spread the fun and sheer practical ease of using a Mac.

Apple Macintosh: the perfect family computer If you decide to buy a Mac and there is no obligation - the computer and other equipment will be delivered to your door. I will help you set it up and provide initial training. Within minutes you'll be well away. The MacFriendly package includes free access to the Apple soft-ware support hotline and, for peace of mind, twelve months AppleCare Premium in-home next day repair support. MacFriendly's unique service will cost you no more than buying the same products in the high street or a superstore. And payments can he spread through an excellent finance plan if needs be. To arrange a demonstration, call me on (01793) 872282.

home work, or research, staff will do their best to help you find the information you need. We have a reference section with useful books for answering queries and local history books covering places of interest in the area. For books that you cannot take out, there is a selfservice photocopier to save you

time and effort. At just iøp per sheet, the service is worth using for any copying you have to do. If you cannot get to the library to return books, remember that you can renew them by telephone. For book renewals and information enquiries call West Swindon library on 871444.

New Books published in November Jane Asher The Longing This well- John le Carre The Tailor of Panama known personality's first novel. Thriller set in Panama in the peJuliet is longing for a baby, but riod leading up to the canal handafter countless attempts she can- over by the US on 31 December 1999. not conceive and depression sets Terry Pratchett Hogfather: a in. Hogswatch carol It's the night beBarbara Taylor Bradford A Secret fore Hogswatch and someone has Affair A respected television news- kidnapped the Hogfather. There's man and a talented artist meet in only one stand-in, but he must Venice and fall in love. remembertoleavehis scytheathome. Catherine Cookson The Bonny E. V. Thompson Moontide HistoriDawn Set on the Northumbrian cal West Country saga following coast in the 1960s during the course the fortunes of an ex-Naval capof one day. tain turned curate.

Austenmania draw Here's a 'most wonderful and auspicious competition' to mark the publication of a book which illustrates the new ITV Jane Austen costume drama 'Emma' to be screened in late November. 'The Making of Emma,' by Susie Conklin and Sue Birtwistle is sure to top the best sellers lists after publication on 7 November. Penguin Books have given us 10 copies (priced at E9.99 each) for ten eager readers. 'The Making of Emma' is a beautifully illustrated companion to Jane Austen's original and the new television production. Containing everything from colour photos of the cast and crew, both on and off set, at work and at play, to

excerpts from the stars' diaries, this book will appeal to costume drama aficionado and anyone with an interest in the behind the scenes reality of a top TV drama. In addition, 'The Making of Emma' contains the full screenplay by award winning dramatist Andrew Davies (Middlemarch, Pride and Prudice). Send a postcard with name and address to: Emma Competition, The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon 5N5 8PQ. Closing date: 18 November.

What happens when you need more space at home r.

but don't think you can afford to do anything about it?

Mrs Pin West Swindon found a solution I really wanted more space, especially at Christmas but as usual we couldn't afford it. "No problem" my husband said. "You could have knocked me down with a feather! No problem? Where were we going to get the money from? Christmas is only a couple of months away and all the spare cash is put into that," I said (irritated). "At Fordmontague we can have our conservatory or windows now!! And we don't have to pay until May next year. It gives us plenty of time to save. I also get my pay review in April. Great timing!" he said. "At long last we could see a way to adding a space without pushing the boat out." "That's not all" my husband said smugly. "Fordmontague have given us £250 worth of Marks & Spencer vouchers a thank you for putting the business their way" "Great," I said, "That will solve some Christmas present problems when shall we get the salesman around?" -

"He's coming at three o'clock - its all sorted."

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Does your junior football team score goals galore or do you simply enjoy a 'game of two halves'? Whatever the standard you'll be as sick as a parrot if you miss the Haydon Centre's Junior 5-a-side winter tournament on Sunday 8 December 12noon to 530pm. The tournament is open to teams in the 8-11 age group with places for a maximum of ten teams to compete for the trophy. Entry fee is £12 per team on a first come first served basis. All entries must be received by 26 November. Entry A football team is looking to local businesses to help them out. forms are available now from cenWest Swindon Football Club, now in its fifteenth year, pictured above, tre reception or call 706666. runs a team in the Skurray's Wiltshire League, but does not have a sponsors name on their shirts. If you run a business and would like to advertise through the club, call Andy Smith on 870357. Bouncy keep fit Put a spring into winter Sundays, 6pm to 730pm, with the adult 14+ trampolining recreation session at the Haydon Centre, starting on 10 November. Trampolining is a great Swindon people will going into moving on 18 June for 'Get Active calorie-burning activity and ses- action in a big way next year. From Day.' sions are open to all abilities. Be- tiny tots to senior citizens, the inMary Willis at the Health Proginners are welcome as a qualified firm to the super fit, Swindon's motion Unit wants individuals, instructor will be on hand to intro- Health Promotion Unit wants eve- schools, community groups, pubs, duce this fun way to fitness. To rybody in the town to do some- clubs and local companies to plan find out more ring 706666. thing active - whether it is going a 15 minute activity session. for a walk, digging the garden, The day is part of the Active for disco dancing or a spot of aerobics. Life campaign aimed at promotCross country site The first Mayor of Swindon, ing physical activity for health to Hreod Parkway School will be the Toothill ward councillor Maurice cut the risk of heart disease and venue for the Thamesdown Schools Cross Country Champi- Fanning, will celebrate his birth- strokes, control body weight, imonships on Saturday 23 Novem- day by encouraging every resident prove mental health and general of the borough to get themselves well being. ber, 9am.

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RECREATION

Workout for Pudsey

Super visit

Prizes, presents and star raffle draw

Sports personality Kriss Akabusi made a return visit to Swindon in October on behalf of Super Schools to put children at Salt Way primary throught their paces. Each of the 320 children did a number of sponsored exercises after having an individual photo taken with Kriss. The money raised in sponsorship will be split with 40 per cent going to Super Schools which helps develop sport in education and the rest being used by Salt Way. Kriss is pictured with, front, Chris Martin and Victoria Eatwell; rear, Rebecca Castle, Nazir Ahmed, Richard Cowdrey

Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs are helping the BBC Children In Need appeal across the south west Local keep fit and diet consultant Wendy Cole from Sparcells, right, is organising a big workout at Greendown School, Grange Park on Thursday 21 November. From 6pm there will be various craft stalls to peruse and buy Christmas gifts, with a percentage of proceeds going to the appeal. The first of many raffle prizes is a voucher for two at Ragdale Hall Health Hydro. Wendy will be leading an aero-

bic workout from 8pm to 9pm, and the evening concludes when international athlete Lesley-Ann Skeete draws the raffle winner. All Children In Need supporters are invited to visit the craft stalls and club members can participate in the workout. Just turn up at Greendown, or call Wendy Cole on 877750 for information about the evening or any of her classes in West Swindon, Wootton Bassett, Wroughton and Purton.

sources. The Harriers' HQ is the Lifestyle Centre at the Swindon County Ground. Road runs start from the Nationwide Pavilion on Mondays and from the Oasis on Fridays. Track and field training take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Circuit training is held at the Haydon Centre on Thursday evenings. For times and more details of club activities, contact general secretary John Deaton, 14 Tamworth Drive, Shaw. Tel: 874491.

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Telephone (01793) 752600

Sin and Slim!

Two into one forms new sports club Swindon's largest athletics clubs, Swindon Athletic Club and Swindon Road Runners have joined forces to form Swindon Harriers. Bringing together the skills and experience from the two clubs, the new organisation will be the major force for the promotion of road running, track and field and cross country running in the district. Swindon Harriers are keen to attract new members from the serious runners to beginners, particularly juniors who will benefit from the club's combined re-

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The Link Magazine • November 1996

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Children in Need goes intergalactic Swindon's contribution to Children in Need day on Friday 22 November is going to be absolutely out of this world. And readers are invited to take part in a free event. Pudsey Bear blasted off in October and is due to dock at his very own space station where he will be joined by Cybermen, Daleks, Klingons and other monsters who have announced a one day peace treaty in the interest of raising loads of cash for children in need. BBC Wiltshire Sound and BT have negotiated the outbreak of good will and will be turning BTs headquarters at North Star House into a space station.

THAMES WOOD VETERINARY CLINICS Built on a reputation of quality and care

An amazing time tunnel will trace the development of communications from Victorian England to Tomorrow's World. A Robo Cafe will give visitors a glimpse of the Internet and telephone receptionists will be taking cash pledges from all over the region. Personalities will be on hand to meet visitors and to receive cheques from fundraising events held beforehand. BBC Wiltshire

Sound will be broadcasting live and there will be national BBC TV coverage. Pudsey's space station will be open from 7pm to lam. Admission is free and children under 14 years must be accompanied by an adult. Organisers say you should be prepared to queue. Outside a fun fair and the BT Hot Air Balloon will keep things going as you depart.

Allfriends for Children in Need. BBC Wiltshire Sound's Shirley Ludford has a smile for a cyberman whilst BT community relations manager Dave Latham holds up Pudsey with Oliver Lister from Warminster who won a poster corn pet iton to advertise the event at North Star on 22 November. BSAVA Standard

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We have two of each to give six winners in our Space Station Pudsey competition. Answer the questions below: 1. Which Doctor Who actor became a household name in "All Creatures Great and Small"? 2. Name Captain Kirk's first officer 3. Which of Doctor Who's greatest enemies used to shrill Exterminate!' Send your answers, with your name and address, on a postcard to: The Link, CiN Competition, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ to reach us by 18 November. If you're a winner we would like you to come to BT North Star on Friday 22 November for a photo for next month's Link.

Are you organising a C1N fundraising event? Let The Link know on 872282.

The Link Magazine. November 1996

Busy time at local fire station Fires, opera and world records. All in a month at Westlea Fire station reports Sub Officer Perry Payne Operationally in the last month we have responded to 83 incidents which included a child locked in a car, thatch fires, house fires, car fires and unfortunately the seemingly inevitable tragedy of persons trapped in road traffic accidents, some fatally injured. With the change in season comes treacherous road conditions. The falling leaves make a spectacular sight, but they do make road surfaces very slippery, particularly when wet. Additionally the nights are drawing in, visibility is reduced and the roads are often wet. We

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have attended a noticeably greater number of road accidents lately, so please take extra care. It's not just operationally we've been busy. The opera came to Westlea Fire Station and a big success it was. About 150 people thoroughly enjoyed a truly unforgettable performance of various well known operatic favourites by the professional and very talented Hatstand travelling opera company - in the appliance bay at the station. All money raised went to the National Fire Service Benevolent Fund making the whole event outstanding in every way. There are rumours that it maybe repeated next year. If so, don't miss it. We also took part in the National Fire Service Swimming Championships on 5 October at the Link Centre, hosted for the first time by Wiltshire. The station very nearly win the Wiltshire Team Championship. Coming a very close second to our magnificent display was the achievement of fire-fighter Paul Brew, who lives

in Shaw, pictured above. In front of the TV cameras and watching media he smashed a world record in the 200m individual medley masters event. This wasn't a fire brigade record, it was

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the real thing for the 30 - 35 year old age group and previously held by an American. Paul took three seconds off the record with a time of 2 minutes 06.69 seconds. It really is a fantastic achievement by Paul, a former Olympic swimmer, now serving as a fire-fighter at Stratton Fire Station. Personally, I'll never forget it. Some safety advice in closing. If you have an open fire in your home, please remember to get the chimney swept, particularly if you burn wood. Finally, fireworks night is nearly upon us. This is likely to be a particularly busy time for us and our Ambulance Service colleagues. We all want you to enjoy the occasion, but in safety. Please avoid needless injuries by carefully following the fireworks code. Better still, attend an organised display, and help us to make sure its a safe evening for you and your family.

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The Link Magazine. November 1996

Graham Mc Callion PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO WEDDINGS PORTRAITS COMMERCIA â€˘

Youth magazine looks like a starter An appeal in last months Link for young people to come forward to put together a youth magazine called Youthquake received an encourging response.

Six young women came for- Barclay. "The problem is, no boys ward and we're really excited are involved yet and their outlook about getting the magazine to- is important to Youth quake." gether," said Kerri Porter who has come up with the idea with Teresa

Lydiard lord visage revealed Sarah Finch-Crisp, keeper of Lydiard House describes a new acquisition

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151 HIGH STREET WOOTTON BASSETT

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We have recently acquired a portrait of Henry 5th Viscount Bolingbroke on long loan. The initial discovery of the painting's existence a few years ago was quite exiting as up until then we had relied on just one photograph to tell us what the roguish old lord actually looked like.

CHRIIS BAIELEY Painting & Decorating Property maintenance service. References available Free estimates

Tel: 526677

Henry Mildmay St John was best known for his much publicised dispute with the Great Western Railway Company over its use of the factory hooter. Henry who couldn't stand the 'roaring and distracted noise' of the hooter managed at one time to get it banned despite the wishes of Swindon people and even his own tenants on the Lydiard estate who appreciated the early morning alarm call. One angry protester exclaimed that 'the workmen might as well say when they had their trip to London that Big Ben should be stopped'. Henry's portrait has become the centre piece of our Victorian Lydiard exhibition which has been a popular attraction since it opened in July. The picture has been loaned to us in accordance with the wishes of a descendent of the Viscount who, sadly, has recently died. Sarah and Lord Henry's portrait

Teresa and Kerri,front, with three of the young women who responded, left to right, Nina Wilson, Angela Green and Emma Pickett

The group is now meeting regularly to thrash out the editorial line, work on stories and plan for a publication date. The magazine will contain articles on relationships, health, competitions and information aimed at teenagers. The group also needs money to pay for printing and is writing to companies in Swindon to ask for support. Potential sponsors and young people who want to know more should call 445529.

Come and see Santaarriving in style on Saturday 16th November at 2.00 p.m. He'll be looking forward to seeing you every weekday from I 1.00am to 700pm and Saturday 10.00am to 6.00pm until Christmas. Bring the children to enjoy all the fun of rides on the FUNFAIR every Saturday from 30th November and also on Christmas Eve. Enjoy Christmas shopping with your family in the safe and relaxed atmosphere of the centre; there are so many good shops all on one level, places to eat, low priced petrol and lots of FREE AND EASY PARKING.

til

WEST SWINDON SHOPPING CENTRE Tewkesbury Way, Swindon

TH EDANc: [ HOUSE Eilendu±Ie Community Centre, Wroughton Saturday.1E. Noveniber:

BANANA BANI THE LINK MAGAZINE'S GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Viva brings international angle

Arts Centre Ruby anniversary

Swindon's Arts Centre starts a week of celebration on 11 November Veteran BBC journalist Martin Bell to mark its fortieth anniversary in the Bradford Hall building on and Swindon explorer David Devizes Road, Old Town. Hempleman-Adams launched Viva With backing from BT, the week Shapiro in a joint concert Humph 'n' International, Swindon's new starts on Sunday 10 Novemberwith Helen. international club in October. On Saturday 16 November, well a screening of Richard Ill, made in the year the Arts Centre opened. known and larger than life actor, On Monday 11 November Anne author and explorer Brian Blessed and Dennis Hart reflect on the early mixes theatrical and personal stories with passionate accounts of days at the Arts Centre. On Tuesday, Level Five Theatre his ascent of Everest. The Gallery Cafe will be serving Company presents Dickens' Great Expectations using an innovative 50's style food and there will be an blend of narrative, drama and exhibition on the last forty years of developing arts and entertainment puppetry. Wednesday 13 November sees at the Arts Centre. An anniversary Humphrey Lyttleton with his band brochure is planned to keep the accompanying 60s starlet Helen memories alive. Martin Bell, left, and Humphrey Lyttleton and Helen Shapiro David Hempleman-A dams promoting Bell's autobiography Speaking at a well attended gathering organised by Swindon Festival of Literature, Martin Bell gave an inspired insight into power politics and his experiences reporting conflict in the former Yugoslavia. Commenting on the first war in Europe for 50 years, he urged us 'in this quiet corner of Wiltshire' to take nothing for granted. David Hempleman-Adams gave a fascinating illustrated account of expeditions to the north and south poles. Newcomers to the town and people with awide outlookwill have the chance to meet each other at monthly lunch time gatherings in Old Town. The first lunch, with speaker, takes place upstairs at Mackenzie's Restaurant in Wood Street on Wednesday 13 November, 1230pm. Swindon will pulsate to Salsa, Merengue and Samba on Friday 15 November in the Crossways Suite, atthe Moonrakers, Cricklade Road. Cuban Enrique King of Salsa', leads a 'basic steps for beginners' workshop from 8pm to 9pm, then it's dance 'til one drops. Tickets at £4 in advance from Link Centre, the Information Centre or John Holmes Music. Or, if available, £4.50 on the door. For more information about Viva International, call 814354.

Under. 12s £1 Family ticket £15 Tickets on door (if not sold out) or send cheque and SAE to The Dance House 131 Goddard Avenue, Swindon or caU 641107

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS

R T

SF S centre i-

Devizes Road Town Swindon BoxOffice: 01793 614837

Friday 8th November, 8pm

pretty vacant starring Stephen North (ITV's London's Burning) A sharp loud, fast comic evening celebrating 20 years of punk rock Saturday 9th November, 8pm Award Winning Irish Comedian

Owen O'Neill 'Shouting from the Scaffold' Tuesday 12th November, 2.3Opm Level Five Theatre Company presents

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens Supported by 13TW

Wednesday 13th Thursday 14th November, 8pm

va) cih Ncihci A

Tandoori and Balti Restaurant Visit the out of town Tandoori and receive a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his family

6 High Street, Purton, Swindon IF Fully Licenced Restaurant Open 7 days a week (inc. all Bank Holidays except Xmas Day) 530pm - 12 midnight

Tel: (01793) 770253 Takeaway Service now available: 10% discount

Humph 'N' Helen Starring Humphrey Lyttleton and Helen Shapiro with The Humphrey Lyttleton Band Supported by E3T% Saturday 16th November, 7.3Opm An evening with Britain's best known actor/adventurer

BRIAN BLESSED 'The Impossible Dream' Supported by BT)(

THAMES DOWN BOROUGH COUNCIL

Swindon Wide Mrs Lesley Taylor MBChA, MSSCh

eovv~k? For the finest in Cantonese, Sichuan, Peking and South East Asian Cuisine Try our superb menu 5 course meal £13.50 per head

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ee our display at 11ThG.A. DAY BUILDERS MERCHANTS Hawksworth Estate near the Oasis} .1

Chiropodist

Reflexologist •:. .:. .:.

Surgery or Home Visits For an appointment please telephone (01793) 849914 anytime

Saturday 2 November Table top/car boot. Immanuel Church Hall, Upham Road, lOam 1 230pm. £5 table or boot, to book tel: 642966, proceeds to Parish Youth Project Gardening Make a hanging basket of daffodils, all materials provided. Moredon Gardens, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, lOam & 2pm. Book in advance on 523294, £14 Music Lind isfarne'Untapped'. Arts Centre, 8pm. £13 Sunday 3 November Festival of Remembrance. Wyvern Theatre, 630pm. £6 Music Swindon Recital Series Kathryn Greeley, violin, Paul Turner, piano. Arts Centre, 3pm. £7 Monday 4 November Music Ludwig Beatles The Get Back Tour. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £6.50 Tuesday 5 November Drama Negative Returns, a new play by Kitty Fitzgerald. In the Amazon rain forest 4 strangers are caught up in a story of political and ecological intrigue. Arts Centre, 730pm. £6.50 Wednesday 6 November to Saturday 10 November Dance Tanwood 1996, 'I want to make magic'. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm, Sat mat 230pm. £6, £7 Friday 8 November Comedy 'pretty vacant' starring Stephen North and Alexandra Cross, Not suitable for children. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Saturday 9 November Museum event Fifties Food on a Ration, demonstrations of cookery with 1950s theme. Swindon Museum, Bath Road, 1030am & 1130am. Free Church bazaar cakes, produce, plants, books etc. Immanuel URC, 2pm. Adults 20p Comedy Owen O'Neill 'Shouting from the Scaffold'. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Sunday 10 November Music Bournemouth Sinfonietta. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £14, £12, £10, concs available Monday 11 November & Tuesday 12 November Ballet Swan Lake presented by Vienna Festival Ballet. Wyvern, 730pm. £10.50 & £12.50 Monday 11 November Music The Music Club presents Anne and Dennis Hart. Reflections on the early days at the Arts Centre at the beginning of its 40th birthday week. 7.45pm Tuesday 12 November Drama Great Expectations. Stylish innovative production mixes narrative dialogue and puppetry, Level Five Theatre Company. Arts Centre, 730pm. £6.50 -

POWER SHOWERS * Repairs to most types of showers * Electric showers installed * Pumped power showers * Gravity showers installed * Showers up-graded ALL MAJOR

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Installation, servicing and repair to all gas appliances & central heating

FULL CENTRAL HEATING SERVICE STILL ONLY £24 Tel: (01793) 873060

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FLUE SYSTEMS AND ACCESSORIES 1 Rodbourne Road, Swindon Tel: (0 1793) 612288

Wednesday 13 November & Thursday 14 November Music Humph 'N' Helen starring Humphrey Lyttleton and Helen Shapiro. Arts Centre, 8pm. £12.50 Music The Jim Reeves Story, featuring over 50 great songs. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £12.50 Thursday 14 November Comedy The Comedy Store Players. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £9.50 & £8.50 Friday 15 November & Saturday 16 November Dance The Richard Alston Dance Company. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £11 &f8 Friday 15 November Music A birthday week concert. Arts Centre, 8pm Saturday 16 November Music Thamesdown Ladies Choir, concert in aid of Marie Curie CancerCare Nursing Service. Bath Rd MethodistChurch, 730pm. £3.50 incl. coffee, tickets from Duck, Son & Pinker Museum event Moving Pictures, conjure up a magical picture and make 3D specs to bring it to life. Swindon Art Gallery, Bath Road, 10.30am & 1230pm. £2

Lecture Brian Blessed (above). The Impossible Dream. Arts Centre, 730pm. £8.50 Monday 18 November to Saturday 23 November Music Kentwood Choir presents Out of this World. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. From £5 Wednesday 20 November to Saturday 23 November Variety Stage Struck. Arts Centre, 730pm. £5, tel 535052 for tickets and info. Saturday 23 November Charity Fayre & coffee morning. St Aldeim's, Edgeware Rd, (by Laura Ashley), 945am 12 noon, in aid of The Children's Society Museum event Railway Stationery, make an ideal Christmas gift for a railway fan. GWR Museum, 1030am & 12 noon. £2 Sunday 24 November Comedy An Evening with Jimmy Jones. Adults only. Wyvern Theatre, 8pm. £10.50, £9.50 -

November overview Monday 25 November Music Ralph McTell in Concert. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £9.50, Tuesday 26 November Music Splinter Group with legendary Fleetwood Mac guitarist Peter Green. Wyvern, 730pm. £16 Wednesday 27 November Music Lets Move It with Jimmy Jermain as Cliff, & The Knight Shadows. Wyvern Theatre, 730pm. £7.50 Wednesday 27 November to Saturday 30 November Drama Comedy to celebrate Western Players 60th year. Arts Centre, 730pm. Tel 724269 for info. Thursday 28 November Drama Reduced Shakespeare Company (right) present The Complete Works of William Shakespeare, all 37 plays in 97 minutes! Wyvern Theatre, 8pm. £10, £9 Friday 29 November Music Sean Wilson & Susan McCann in Command Performance. Wyvern, 730pm. £9 Saturday 30 November Museum event Make some wacky Sculptures out of old food containers. Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, lOam & 3pm. £1 Music The Syd Lawrence Orchestra present A Moonlight Serenade. Wyvern, 8pm. £11.50, £10.50

Saturday 30 November to 8th January Exhibition Country House Christmas. Lydiard House dressed for Christmas, Victorian style with Christmas trees and decorations throughout the elegant rooms. Adults 70p, Juniors 25p

Line& Country Western Dancing

CITIZEN ADVOCATES Men and women needed as volunteers to spend an hour a week helping someone with a learning difficulty. You will need to listen to them and speak up for them to protect their rights. Full training and support given.

Every Monday Greendown School Grange Park Enquiries: Midnight Cowboys 764732

SWINDON ADVOCACY MOVEMENT

Also Wednesday class at Warneford School, Highworth

TEL: 693787 EXT 159

8pm - 10pm. £2.50 (1.25 G. Card)

Film at Swindon Arts Centre Thursday 7 November, 7.45pm Secrets and Lies (15) A heartrending drama of family relationships. Arts Centre, Sunday 10 November, 7.45pm Richard lii (15) Ian McKellen starring in a startling different Shakespeare adaptation. Presented by SFS

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fvATrc N OUT! THERE A C*MXOPXLE ABOUT. Tickets on sale now for the Christmas Ice Show 1996

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Feast on our delicious special Sunday lunch at only £10 per person. Eat a selection of 6 to 7 mouth-watering dishes and finish with a tasty sweet. For great service and authentic Chinese atmosphere in the heart of West Swindon, come to the Chinese Experience -an experience for everyone

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Drop in or 'phone for a takeaway and we'll quickly have it ready for collection.

qlIJI€$E EXPERIEIkE Mead Way, Sparcells Tel: (01793) 877888

The Link Magazine. November 1996

MOBILE MECHANIC WE COME TO YOU • Non-Starts • Servicing • Tuning • M.O.T Work • Breakdowns Electrical Faults • Clutches Fittted • Welding

Hard of hearing meeting

VERRUCAS A PROBLEM? Pick up the phone and book your appointment with Martin Drew MBcHA, MSSch

CHIROPODIST Children's low cost verruca clinic now open. Please telephone surgery for details,., Call: (01793) 511284 anytirmt IS

No garage prices or waiting

Please telephone 876211 ANYTIME

Home visit service or come ,to our modern town centre urgery

-I

BRITANNIA TOWING CENTRE The BEST, BAR NONE, for quality, price and service Swindon's specialist towbar and accessory fitting centre

Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Sheppard Street, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 613147 9 Fax: (01793) 488622

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HELP FOR THE DISABLED & ELDERLY

The Link Hard of Hearing Club next meets on Friday 8 November, 2pm to 4pm in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. The Club is open to anyone with hearing loss and their friends and partners are also welcome. For more information contact Norman Wood on 537671.

Shopping scheme needs volunteers Swindon's Shopmobility project was launched on 28 October. Based in the ground floor of the Wyvern car park, disabled people will be able to borrow wheelchairs and scooters to do their shopping independently. Volunteers are still needed to welcome users and act as escorts on shopping trips. Anyone with half a day or more who can offer help should call Miriam Minty on 526161 ext. 4785.

Wheelchair players wanted Swindon Locomotion wheelchair basketball team will be playing Westlea fire station on 17 November, 2pm to 4pm before the Swindon Sonics. They are looking for supporters, more able bodied and disabled players to join, and some sponsorship. To find out more, go along to the game, or call Ray Wallace on 524098.

Lions make chair donation

Wheelchair/scooter hire £8.50/week

Wheelchair

Electric wheelchair and electric £35/week scooter hire Electric wheelchair and scooter service

£35

SWINDON MOBILITY CENTRE For all your needs. Electric and manual wheelchairs, scooters

Tel: (01793) 423484 * Repairs, servicing & accessories Batteries supplied and fitted Reclining/lifting armchairs Easy access test area

* * *

* Bath aids * Walking aids * Car adaption * Stairlifts

To: Swindon Mobility Centre, Unit 21, Axis Business Park, Westmead, Swindon SN5 7YS From: Tel: Please send me information on the following: Manual Wheelchairs/Electric WheelchairslScooters/Bath Aids Electric Lifting-Reclining Chairs Or

West Swindon Lions teamed up with the Swindon Mobility Centre in Westlea in early October to help Uplands School for children with severe learning difficulties. The Lions made a commitment to supply a chair and Steve Law at the mobility centre renovated and donated it. Pictured above is Lisa Archer in the donated wheelchair, left to right, Lions Helen Marson and Norman Wood, class assistant Sue Read, Uplands School teacher Pam Little, Steve Law of the Swindon Mobility Centre, Lions president Alan Newton

Deputy Mayor councillor Maurice Fanning partnered by consort Sheila Samuells visited the sponsored swim for the National Asthma Campaign at the Link Centre on 19 October where more than £400 was raised.

Citizen advocates make a difference An organisation is looking for volunteers to work with people with learning difficulties to ensure their rights are protected and their needs met. Swindon Advocacy Movement wants people to come forward to train and be matched with people requiring help on a one to one basis. Each persons needs are different and particular to their circumstances. An advocate maybe asked to represent someone in a formal meeting, represent a person who has left institutional care after many years, or speak up for someone who has no means of communication. The advocate listens to the person's point of view, respects their wishes and stands with them to defend their rights. They come from all walks of life with a wide variety of experience and skills. They are people prepared to ask lots of questions, rather than knowing lots of answers. The only thing they have in common is a willingness to enter into a partnership with a person who has a learning difficulty. They need to believe in the right of everyone to be a valued member of the community. Being a Citizen Advocate can be a rewarding volunteering opportunity which gives people the chance to get to know one individual and make a great deal of difference to their life. To find out how to become an advocate, call Richard Rogers on 693787 ext 159.

The Link Magazine. November 1996

Tax self-assessment Its up and running, but are you ready for it asks Accountant, Maureen Pearson

Have you seen the advertisements in the papers and on the TV which are being run by the Inland Revenue showing the friendly Inspector Hector? These are to make us all aware of the changes in the present tax system and to tell us of the new rules. Self assessment is now in operation and means that from last April we have to keep records of all income so that we can fill in a tax return if required by the Inland Revenue. Many of us who work and pay income tax on our wages each week or month may not get a tax return and unless you have other income you do not have to worry if you do not receive one. But record keeping from last April is now required bylaw. Everyone should keep the following details: • Payslips and P60s from your employers • Company cars, mileage, private petrol and any other expenses paid by your employer such as medical insurance and telephone use • Bank and Building Society interest and dividend vouchers • Any other income • If you are self-employed you will also need to keep details in a cash book, of all business earnings and invoices, and all expenses claimed and receipts. • If you are a pensioner and have

some money in the Building Society, make sure that the interest you receive does not make you liable for tax. Check that your total income is less than the tax allowances. • Keep all records for six years. • If you are not up to date you will need to get up to date. Make sure that you know whether you owe any tax. Ask your tax office if you are not sure or your accountant or tax advisor. The new tax returns will be issued next April 1997. If you want the Inland Revenue to work out your tax you have to send it back to them by 30 September 1997. If you are working it out yourself you have until 31 January 1998. A penalty will be imposed if you are late in sending it back. Payments of tax on income other than wages and salaries are due 31 January and 31 July. Interest charges will be imposed if dates are ignored. Booklets are available from the Inland Revenue. If you would like further advice you can contact me on 724172.

One To One

MAUREEN PEARSON A.T.T.

TAXATION ADVISOR

Office & house valeting service References available Tel: 01793 724039

For Advice and Help on Personal and Business Tax Completion of Tax Returns and Preparation of Accounts for the Inland Revenue 27 Holmleigh, Haydon Wick Swindon SN2 3RH

Tel: (0 1793) 724172

THINKING OF RENTING YOUR PROPERTY?

Countrywide Residential I .ct I jugs

LANDLORDS - CAN YOUR AGENT OFFER THIS? * UKs Largest Letting Company * Over 80 Branches Nationwide * Rent Protection Scheme * Computerised Accounting West Swindon Centre Tel: (01793) 882121

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(West Swindon) require 1 to 4 bed. houses & flats Professional service with a high standard of care and competitive rates Rent Protection insurance now available Contact: (01793) 874067

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TAYLORS ESTATE

• AGENTS

(Day orEve)

.• (L

-I— •

• TAXING TIME AHEAD

SELF ASSESSMENT IS ON THE WAY Wrag Barn Golf & Country Club Sevenhamptor,, Swindon Tel: (01793) 861327

Dear Link Magazine, Having recently advertised in The Link magazine, I would just like to express my thanks for your assistance and to inform you that the advertising campaign was very successful. I have received many enquiries for membership and accepted at least ten new members, which is excellent. I feel that The Link successfully targets the people that we wish to reach in West and North Swindon, and people obviously do read and respond to this magazine. I will definitely advertise again in this publication, and at the competitive rates offered, it's not to be missed. Sharon Villegas, Marketing Manager for Wrag Barn Golf & Country Club, Sevenhampton, Highworth

ARE YOU A TAXPAYER.... If so SELF ASSESSMENT WILL APPLY TO YOU Are you ready to cope with: • LONGER AND MORE COMPLEX TAX RETURNS • STRICTER TIME LIMITS • HEAVIER PENALTIES FOR LATE SUBMISSION + MORE RECORD KEEPING • TRANSITIONAL REGULATIONS

DON'T BE CAUGHT OUT WE CAN HELP Contact Caroline Ockwell on (01793) 430303 163 Victoria Road, Swindon SN1 3BU

STEEL + HODGES + OCKWELL Accountants and Tax Advisers

The Link Magazine • November 1996

Fair trade for Christmas

NO NEED TO LIVE WITH HARD WATER CONTACT:

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discount in November

Oxfam launched one of their three Fair Trade shops in the UK in Bristol on 31 October, but you don't have to travel that far to buy the wide range of goods on offer. The Oxfam shop at 45 Regent Street, Swindon stocks many of the ethnic fabrics, craft and food items. The Oxfam Fair Trade Company ensures that the people who grow the food and make the products are paid a fair price for their work and helps them towards a better future through support and training. Call in to the shop for delicious Cafe Direct coffee, rugs, throws and carvings. Search out your interesting Christmas gifts there. Oxfam shop volunteers Sheila Cotter from Park South, left, and Iris Avenell from Haydon Wick Tractor for fresh water Charity worker Julia Starczewski from Swindon is desperately trying to complete her commitment to a village in India. She returned earlier this year with a promise to raise money to buy a tractor for the people in Suranam in Tamil Nadu, south India. There is no piped fresh water

and the wells are useless because of pollution. The tractor is needed to tow a water cart to the village and also work in the fields. Julia, who worked in the area on a project run by the De La Salle Brothers, has raised half of the £3,000 needed. If you can help her raise the other £1,500, call 496661.

Decorate the walls as well as the tree As your mind turns towards Christmas decorations, you might think the lounge or the spare bedroom needs a lick of paint. West Swindon decorator Phillip Stone has offered a pre-Christmas decoration service through The Link for several years and is again ready to give your house a bright new

look before the friends and relatives arrive. His prices are very competitive and he is geared up to do the job at a few days notice, ready for the Christmas celebrations. So, before putting up the tinsel, give Phillip a call on 870515. Mobile 0374 - 208527.

Carpet Cleaning' Clean carpets for Christmas Carpet cleaning is a highly technical business, so going for the lowest by your local price can be a false economy. After all, carpets are expensive and you professional don't want to reduce their life by treating them badly. Local carpet cleaning contractor of his work comes from readers. He believes in good old fashAlan Trask from Grange Park, who Satisfaction runs Ultra Clean Wiltshire is very ioned service and does not leave a guaranteed concerned that home owners do job until the customer is satisfied. "As a local family firm, it's impor-

* Fully trained & Insured operators * Commercial rates available * Dupont Stainshield Protects against spills and dirt * Deodorising Treatment Leaves carpets & fabric smelling fresh

* We move furniture * Conditioner Re-Textures your carpet & upholstery * Anti Allergy Treatment For asthma & allergy sufferers

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01793 - 870756 ULTRA CLEAN (WILTSHIRE) Open: Mon - Fri 900am - 700pm • Sat 9 00a - 100pm. DISCOUNT OFFER VALID UNTIL 30.11.96

not ruin their carpets. "It's not just a matter of getting the carpet wet," he explains. "You have to get the chemistry right to remove grit particles. If you don't, the carpet will look clean for a few months but then will actually look dirtier than before and wear will increase as the grit is ground in. By then it will probably be too late to go after whoever was responsible." Alan has established himself as one of Swindon's most successful operators since he started his business 18 months ago. And since he started advertising in The Link exactly a year ago, his business has really taken off. Seventy per cent

tant to foster good relations with customers so that they ask us back. We have a reputation to protect; we can only do this by offering excellent service. We're not on commission so we don't have to use pressure sales tactics, or try and get people to have extra, sometimes unnecessary, treatments." To celebrate his first year's advertising with The Link magazine, Alan is offering a 10% discount on his current rates which are already very competitive. With and family and friends dropping by at Christmas, now is the time to book a carpet and upholstery clean.

FOR 111CR IMPACT ADVERTISING, CALL (01193) 872282

The Link Magazine • November 1996 25

Win a family ticket to the Big Bash

Call us now for your

The CBBC Big Bash is definitely the biggest kids party of the year. The National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham will be transformed into a giant indoor theme park for four fun-filled days between 28 November and 1 December, 9am - 6pm. See the top CBBC programmes like Newsround and Blue Peter being broadcast, check out the displays and stands from all the big toy makers and video entertainment companies, get essential style hints from top fashion designers and take to the cat walk and sample tasty free goodies from Dunkin' Donuts, Baskin Robbins and Coca Cola. Go online in the Internet suite, there will be an under 5s area, an 'adult creche' .... in fact there's just too much to describe on this page. We have five family passes for one adult and two children each worth £20 to give away to the first five drawn out of the hat. We have runner up prizes as well. Green's fun to Bake Place was the busiest stand at last year's Big Bash and they are raising money for Childline at this year's show. The Link has teamed up with Greens to offer 10 'Fun to Bake' prize packs which include a Dennis the Menace duffel bag, an apron, cookie mix and a cartoon mug.

rental requirements. We always require good quality

2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties 35a Regent Street, Swindon, Wilts SN1 IPX

Tel: 01793 536552 • Fax: 01793 615678

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MOBILE CAR SERVICING 8 REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 20 years experience (No VAT to pay) CALL GRAHAM ON (0 1793) 873045 or 0860 835912

j1 ,f 0 0 t J

rot

RsGAS

NEC Birmingham Now 28th - Deckt Send your name and address on a postcard to The Link, CBBC, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon 5N5 8PQ to reach us by 18 November. Winners will be informed by 20 November. If your entry is not chosen, the NEC ticket hotline is 0121 767 4477.

Bus lanes backed by young designer

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Cars are choking Swindon. So drivers are being encouraged to give the car a rest, because the bus is best. That's the message on

CAKTEK,KEAD & DOVE

a poster designed by Joe Maher, 9, from Grange Park, below. licity in the Joe's paintEvening Advering, which tiser about bus shows a car lanes that we happily tucked wanted to ask up in bed children to dreaming of a think posidesert island tively about whilst a bus is public transgiven a big tick, port and was chosen in whether peoearly October in ple need to use a competition their cars all run by the the time. transport work"It was a joy ing group of the to see all the Thames down entries. ChilEnvironmental dren are very Forum. concerned The Westlea about their enSchool pupil revironment." ceived news She said that he was the winner on his birthday, 10 Octo- that over the next ten years traffic ber. "I'd forgotten all about the in Swindon is expected to increase picture which we painted in July," by 33% to 46% compared to a nasaid Joe. "We use the bus all the tional average of 19% to 31%. A time. The bus lanes are very good double decker bus can take as many because they allow the buses to go people as 22 cars could carry, but only uses a seventh of the road into town quicker." Transport working group mem- space. Nearly three quarters of all ber Jean Saunders said the compe- car UK journeys are under 5 miles. Joe won £25 for himself and tition was organised to counter the negative coverage of bus lanes. Westlea School will get the free "There has been so much bad pub- use of a coach for a day trip.

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The Link Magazine ,, November 1996

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HOME

The nights are darker, burglars are on the prowl. A house break-in or theft of property is a traumatic experience. Here are a few suggestions for better protection.

Confuse the crook The physical security of the house, its doors and windows, is important, but a few common sense measures can deter a criminal from even attempting a break-in Many domestic burglaries are committed by people who do not pre-plan their crimes. These are 'opportunist' criminals who are constantly on the look-out for a suitable target. They are looking for those tell tale signs that a house is unoccupied: • those pints of milk on the doorstep all day • the papers sticking out of the letter box • the empty garage with the door wide open and • no car on the drive • at night, the house in total darkness.

All these things are a good indication to the thief that no-one is in and may persuade him to chance a break in.

Look occupied At night or if you do not get home before darkness, use a timed or a darkness sensitive system to turn some lighting on in the home. While you are out, leave a radio on in the house. Arrange for a good neighbour to keep an eye on things, to collect parcels left on the doorstep or to push the newspaper through the door, anything that gives the impression that the house is occupied. Put enough doubt in the mind of the crook and there is a good chance that he won't bother you.

Protect your home There can never be such a thing as total security. If someone wants to break into your property badly enough they will find a way. But, by making the door off its runner. it as difficult as • Don't forget the security of possible, the your sheds and garages. thief can be deOften they contain expensive terred. By initems, as well as tools that can creasing his effort and the chances help a crook break into your of being caught, there is a good house. chance that he will leave you alone. There are a wide range of secu- There are obviously many other rity products available. Whatever things that can be done to secure you choose, the following rules your property such as: always apply: • installing movement sensitive security lights on the side of the • All opening windows must house. have suitable locks fitted. • Patio doors should have locks • fitting a burglar alarm. top and bottom and also an • attaching small, lighweight, anti-lift device installed to battery powered 'attack alarms prevent a thief simply lifting to equipment in the garage.

As we approach Christmas The big shop is on. Now is the time to be more vigilant than ever.

£125.00

• Don't leave items on the seat of the car whilst you go off to buy some more goodies. It only takes a moment to smash a window or force a door and you've lost important gifts and have a repair to sort out.

total price

• It's the time when we carry more cash around. Try not to put an unguarded wallet or purse down on the shop counter.

Come and see a demonstration at:

Maxwell House Maxwell Street, Swindon Tel: 618499

• Ladies, keep house keys out of your handbag. It's bad enough loosing cash, cheque book and credit cards if it is stolen. But your keys will give the thief access to your home. • Never ever leave your PIN number with your credit card and always keep your cheque card separate.

The Link Magazine' November 1996

Minister on the move Rev George Gibson, minister for Toothill Church, has announced that he will be taking up an appointment in the Medway towns group of United Reformed Churches in Kent in February next year. He has worked in Toothill since September 1993. The next minister will be a Methodist appointment, but the yet to be appointed person will not arrive until September 1997. On 13 October Rev Gibson conducted a Harvest Festival service attended by 129 people on the theme of water and its importance to life. Instead of the usual offerings of fruit and vegetables, there was a collection for Tear Fund, a Christian organisation which works to relieve poverty in the third world. The service was held in Toothill Community Centre where the congregation has been meeting for several months whilst repair work on the church takes place.

Spanish winners Students of Spanish at Greendown School have shown they are the tops by winning a national modem language competition run by Nelson educational publishers.

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ENTERPRISE WORKS (Factory For The Disabled)

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A WIDE VARIETY OF SHEDS & SUMMER HOUSES MADE TO ORDER OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AND SALES COUNTER AND CHECK OUT OUR COMPETITIVE PRICES. FREE LOCAL DELIVERY ON ORDERS OVER £30 Units 1A& lB. Gipsy Lane Business Park, Gipsy Lane, Swindon,Wilts SN2 6DT

Year 9 students had to design and use of language, variety of and write a twenty page booklet work, originality, quality of illuson an endangered species theme tration and excellent presentation aimed at children starting Span- which would have great appeal to ish. The booklet is full of illus- 11 and 12 year olds.' The school won £125 worth of trated poems, puzzles, cartoons vouchers and four of Greendown's and quizzes. Amanda Risk, marketing co- winning pages will appear in an ordinator for Nelson said the anthology of the best entries to judges were impressed by the advertise next year's competition Greendown entry for its 'content to schools across the country.

THE ODD JOB MAN

FENCING PANELS & TRELLIS. CONCRETE OR WOODEN POSTS. ALL ACCESSORIES. PATIO SLABS & PLANTERS.

Amanda Risk of Nelson Publishers presents Paul Gray and Sarah Lewis-Paul and other year 10 students with a winners certificate

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minety G;Q uality CTS Quality timber PLAYHOUSES deliveredfor CHRISTMAS

Roundabout problems need sorting

Two councillors are campaigning to sort out the problems at Mannington Roundabout on Great Western Way.

Widening and new traffic lights works well though the lines on the has improved traffic flow but the road are confusing and drivers are wide island separating Tewkes- cutting across each other. And at bury Way and the bus lane from busy times the traffic backs ups on Westlea still causes massive hold Tewkesbury Way because of the ups at busy times. Reducing the island." Toothill councillor Maurice Fanwidth of the island would allow all three lanes entering the rounda- ning agreed that a solution needs bout to be used effectively. At to be found. "We've got to rethink how traffic approaches and comes present only one can be used. However, all the major services off the roundabout into into Toothill run under the island Tewkesbury Way. It's not an imwhich was the original footway possible situation but the traffic next to road. The bus lane was jams mean that drivers are still built some years after Tewkesbury using residential streets in Westlea Way. Relocating the services will and Toothill as short cuts." Both councillors have received be expensive. Freshbrook councillors Phil many calls complaining about Rashid congratulated the engi- Tewkesbury Way and want readneers for improving traffic man- ers to know that they are trying to agement. "The overall system get something done.

Sheds, chalets, workshops. Standard sizes or made to measure. Huge range - over 50 designs. Also dog kennels, rabbit hutches. SHEDS from £99.00 FENCING from £1.99 GATES from £16.99

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The Link Magazine' November 1996

8 WOOD STREET, OLD TOWN, SWINDON TEL: (01 793) 532250

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Open: Tues - Fri 930am - 5pm Sat Sam - 4pm closed Monday

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Jeper

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ELECTROLYSIS (permanent hair removal) 15 minutes £5.50 • 30 minutes £8.50 Excess hair on the face or body can be embarrassing and upsetting. Electrolysis will permanently remove hair. All treatments are conducted in a private room by a fully qualified and very experienced therapist. For a consultatior and appointment please phone:

01793 772123

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Strike lucky with the right labels A one-time Link distributor has opened a stall in Swindon's covered market selling designer labels without the designer price. Ed Browne, 19, from Sparcells, right, opened Strike Clothing at the beginning of October to make names like Versace, Stone Island, Calvin Klein, Lauren, Hilfiger and Mochino available at sensible prices. Ed has wanted to run his own business for some years and having finished college he thought he would give it a go. So, if you're stylish, full of energy and know that DKNY is a designer label and not an abbreviation for a nuclear product, call in to Strike and check out what's on offer.

Beautiful barn full of fantastic fabrics Loose Ends is a must-visit for anybody interested in home furnishing. Two large converted barns are filled with discontinued lines of linens, weaves, damasks,

Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters • Doubles also available Free installation and local delivery Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

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We also stock ladies day/ casual/business/evening and bridal wear. Also gents & childrens wear.

Urgently needed now: Immaculate, modern winter garments in all sizes to sell on 50-50 basis, particularly evening dresses and separates.

Call us on 695223 or visit 59 North Street off Eastcott Road Old Town Swindon

Open: lOam- 4pm (not Wed. & Sun.)

4trke Genuine designer labels WITHOUT the designer price Wes[ sock: Versed. Slone Island

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chintzes and cottons from top manufacturers, for both curtains and upholstery. There is also a small selection of wallpapers and calico sofas to choose from. Most of the prices are one third of the normal price. Loose Ends is open 9am to 1pm every weekday or by appointment with Sue Cutcliffe. Advice from experienced staff is always available and curtains and covers can be made to order. There is plenty of parking space and always coffee on the go whilst you browse. Loose Ends can be found at Brinkworth, off the B4042 Malmesbury Swindon road, down a no through lane on the right, between the Three Crowns pub and Brinkworth Golf Club. Tel: 01666 510685. Left: Sue Cutc1ffe of Loose Ends

Women Out West Kerrie Stone writes We are a group of women at home during the day either with or without young children. We meet every Friday, 930am, during term time in the Community Suite at the Link Centre and always welcome new people. There is a creche for under fives at most of our meetings. Our programme for November Coffee morning 8th 15th Jean Saunders of Friends of the Earth will talk about helping the environment 22nd An outing 29th David West will be giving a talk and demonstration on Alexander Technique which is an exercise and relaxation therapy. Wear loose, comfortable for this one. You can just turn up for any of these meetings or phone me on 875820 for more details. You are most welcome to join us.

Pre-school places Lydiard Millicent Pre-School, Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall has vacancies at sessions on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, 915am to 1215pm and on Tuesdays from 1245pm to 315pm. Contact Jenny Watson, Supervisor, on 770925 or Liz QuartlyBishop, Registration Secretary on 771089. Sparklers Playgroup, at Sparcells Social Hall, Sparcells Drive has places available Monday to Thursday 915am to 12 noon and a rising 5's session on Wednesday 1245pm - 245pm. For more details or to arrange a visit please phone Mrs King on 875997

The Link Magazine. November 1996

Julia Drown, the Labour Party's candidate for Swindon South attended the West Swindon Family Project's Annual General Meeting on 9 October. She commented that the project is an exciting example the community working together to combat isolation. Christmas Bazaar Saturday 16 November 11am -3pm St Peter's Church, Carronbridge Road, Eastleaze Many stalls including tombola, cakes, crafts, raffle and refreshments Bring & buy sale in aid of Research Trust for Metabolic Diseases in Children Friday 22 November lOam - 3pm 19 Bishopdale Close Nine Elms, Shaw Homemade cakes, baby clothes, bric-a-brac, & lots more Children welcome, coffee served. Meet other local parents Contact Becky Snowdon on 876332 for further details Jumble sale Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Saturday 23 November 2pm to 4pm. Refreshments. Admission 25p Donations of jumble gratefully received from 12noon Call Pat Russell on 771116 for collection Organised by The Lydiards Flower & Produce Society West Swindon Twins West Swindon Twins Group meet on the first Monday of every month and would love to see new members. Drop in anytime from 930am till 1130am at the Health Centre next to the Link. For more information phone, Lynne on 876272, Kate on 850341 orJacqui on 871620.

Problem verrucas? Verrucas and warts are notoriously difficult to cure and no treatment is totally effective. The Martin Drew surgery offers cryosurgery, chemical and medical electric treatment to the most modern standard at an under 11's clinic on Tuesday, 6pm - 8pm and also older childern at regular surgery. The initial consultation and assessment for children is free. Verruca are very contagious, so protect your family by registering fortreatment now. Call Martin Drew on 511284 for further information.

Return call to open school extension Swindon's MP Simon Coombs was asked back to Shaw's Salt Way primary school to open a six classroom extension on 26 September. Chair of governcrs Steve Cowdrey said, "as Simon cut the first sod last November, it seemed appropriate to invite him to see the finished article." Salt Way, with a present roll of 324 children, will now have a capacity of 420. There should be 380 children in the school at Easter. Simon Coombs opens the new Salt Way school extension

rDreccsec1 Occathm/ + Handmade gowns and cocktail wear for sale or hire + Velvet evening capes + All sizes including maternity For an appointment, call Hilary on (01666) 510306. 10 minutes from Swindon. Easy Parking.

1cin Aterior Ajiqnj Are you longing to make your home into that showhome of a lifetime? Now you need wait no longer!

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â€˘:. With my knowledge and expertise I can make your dream true, and all at a price you can afford.

Simply call Liz on 486112 for details

Poetry explains frustration The 7 November marks one hundred years since the first mention of dyslexia in the British Medical Journal. During last year's the awareness campaign, Swindon Dyslexia Centre held a competition for children aged 8 to 16 years old, to write a poem describing what it felt like to be dyslexic. The result is 'The Inner Hurt', edited by Maria Chivers, right, from Haydon Wick, with a foreword is written by Anthea Turner Published on 1 October, it is a moving collection of poetry which tells of the frustration and sometimes anger of dyslexia. Dyslexia affects 4% of the population. Problems can show themselves in reading, writing, number work, short term memory, hand control and visual processing. Timekeeping, sense of direction and interpersonal skills can also be affected. These difficulties often result in great frustration, bearing in mind that dyslexics are often of high or above average intelligence. By buying and reading this book, you may understand. It can be bought from The Swindon Dyslexia Centre, 134 Morrison Street, Rodbourne, Swindon, and costs ÂŁ5.99.

-A

EDUCATIONFORYOUR FUTURE

Family project praise

New College Swindon

OPEN EVENING For school-leavers, parents and friends. You are welcome to look around the college and talk to staff on:

Thursday, November 28th 6.00pm - 9.00pm New College

Swindon

Helston Road, Park North, Swindon SN3 2LA Tel: (01793) 611470

The Link Magazine • November 1996

JONEIJ.I' Magical entertainer for children's parties and adult shows featuring: Illusion, Comedy and Mystery

Tel: 727619

Double room to rent Quality accommodation in new 4 bedroom house in W Swindon Non-smoking, professional required Garden, parking space, GCH, washerdryer, dishwasher, TV, fridge & freezer £300 pcm ono (excluding phone) Phone 877754

Houses for sale Large 3 bed terrace,

HOTPOINT

fully d/glazed, heating, lounge, kitchen/diner, lobby/utility, bathroom with shower, south-facing garden (rear gate access), not overlooked, close to all amenities, carpets included. Price: £44,950 Tel: 01793 613349 (eves/w'end) No timewasters please

WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS

Leslie Close, Freshbrook

•Same Day Service uJ •Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, helpful service, call J. Martin. Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill

2 bed, larger than average semi detached house with own drive. Large modern fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms, & newly tiled bathroom. £45,950.

HOOVER

Tel: 872472

Letters to The Link

Letters should be sent by 15th of the month to the address on page 2

Fab Four visit From a Beatles fan, Haydon Wick Referring to the article in the Swindon Wide section of the October Link which said the Beatles never visited Swindon, well, you're wrong! The Beatles did appear in the town in the very early 60s, probably as the Silver Beatles, upstairs in the dance hall at Mcllroys department store.

Winners The winners of our October competitions: The three copies of the Rosemary Conley New Body by Design video go to Linda Miller, Lineacre Close, Grange Park;I Woods, Beverley, Toothill; Ruth Barrett, Belsay, Toothill. The two pairs of tickets to the Mr Men show at the Wyvern go to Heidi Hynes, Redcliffe Street, Rodbourne and Jack Townsend, Nevis Close, Sparcells.

I would be interested to know who the drummer was on that occasion. It could have been the original drummer Pete Best or it may have been Ringo. Do fans think a plaque should be put up in Regent Street to mark the visit?

WE HAVE IT ALL

UNDERCOVER... DUNCAN CAR SPARES COMPREHENSIVE STOCKS OF

GUARANTEED NEW & USED SPARES MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED CARS & COMMERCIALS BOUGHT FOR CASH

PARTS REMOVED BY

Eli OUR OWN PERSONNEL VMUMM TEL: 01793 - 820000 UNIT 59 THORNHILL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON

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Raleigh Universal mountain bike suit ages 6 to 10, g cond, £30. Tel: 871735 Bike, giils, age 5-7, Apollo Starburst, bright pink, £45 ono. Toddler bike seat, £15 ono. Tel: 873671 Tomy steam steriliser, £10. Chicco baby seat, £10. Klippan carrycot baby seat, inc head rest, 0-6 months, £12. All exc condition. Tel: 876397 (Ramleaze) Sliver Cross Wayfarer pram/pushchair, complete with cosytoes, sun canopy & rain cover, blue upholstery, reasonable cond. £60. Tel: 770076 Safety fireguard, extendable, vgc, £10. Tel: 770076 Booster seat, red, straps to dining chair, reversible to give two height settings, vgc, £4. Tel: 770076 Cosatto 'Sanantonio' changing unit, antique ash, 2 shelves, 2-way drawer, safety rails, changing mat, exc cond. must be seen, £179 new, sell £135. Tel: 881353 Britax car seat, 6 months to 4 yrs, used by one child, £8. Mamas & Papas baby walker, £15. Tomy snuggler carrier, used twice, £10. Tel: 871370 (Gr Pk) Mamas & Papas 2 in 1 pram with all accessories, £120. Maclaren super dreamer buggy £20. Both vgc. Tel: 723129 Cindy dolls house, 5 it high complete with lots of furniture and four dolls, exc cond. £50. Tel: 725842 (Woodhall Pk) Ideal Christmas present -Euro 96 Trivia board game, suit age seven upwards, 2 players +, as new, £15 ono. Tel: 771892 Collins German/English, 610 page dictionary, £10. Tel: 871817 (Sparcells) Two track speedway £5, four track speedway, £10 as new. Tel: 771892 Raleigh Bobcat bike suit, suit six year old boy, £25 ono. Garden hose & reel, £5. Tel: 771892 (Lydiard Millicent) Motorcycle boots, Diadoras size 41, boxed, worn once, £25. Tel: 771934 Riding boots, black, ankle length, size 4.5, £20. Riding hat, including a black & red silk, size 7, £10. Tel: 873685 (Gr Pk) Wet suit, shortie style, good cond. unisex, suitable for older child or small adult, approx 5 it Sins, £15. Tel: 722825 Contesa solarium, five tubes, 6ft long adjustable height, vertical or horizontal use, hardly used, £90. Tel: 496187

Snap/clip frames, 6" x 410 for £5. 5" x 7", 10 for 7. 6"x8" 10 for 9.50. 8"x10" 5 for £9. Still wrapped. Tel: 812750 Laura Ashley bail gown, size 12, black velvet bodice, black/gold taffeta skirt, exc cond. £50. Tel: 872440 (Gr Pk) Singer electric sewing machine with foot pedal enclosed in table unit, £50, space needed. Tel: 875681 (Freshbrook) Commodore 64C computer. 2 diskdrives, 2 datasettes, manuals, some software, joysticks, etc, can be seen working, £50. Tel: 771934 (Common Platt) Video front loader, in good condition, remote control, SP/LP HO, can deliver and set up if required, £65. Tel: 879796 Small electric vacuum cleaner, suitable for cleaning computer equipment, superb machine, £20. Tel:770662/61 8794 Adler electric typewriter, oldie but goodie, including cover and spare ribbons, extremely faithful, WP forces sale, £15. Tel: 881398 (Westlea) Foodmixer, Philips, unused, 150 watt, 3 speed, stand and bowl, £6. Tel: 771934 Ironboard, faircondition, £5. Tel: 770076 White wooden front door with chubb lock, £20. Half glass back door, £15. Ladies bicycle (shopper) good cond. £30. Tel: 480091 (Freshbrook) Set of 3 mahogany occasional tables, £20 ono. Coffee table, mahogany effect approx 3' x 16", £20. Tel: 875681 (Frbk) Ikea TV & Hi Fl unit, black/natural beechwood finish. Approx 36" long x 46" high xl 5" deep, g. cond. £50. Tel: 770076 Zanussi gas cooker GC1 8 in mint condition'as never used, £300 ono. Tel: 770483, 5pm-6pm Electric cooker, double oven, fan assisted, Phillips, eye level. £40. Tel: 872915 Double bed, divan set with four storage drawers underneath, £40. Tel: 812750 Myers 4' 6" orthopaedic divan, hardly used, exc cond. £75. Tel: 874646 (Toothill) Carpet 10 x 12, charcoal grey, Scotch Guard, still in polythene, new. Tel: 616923 Pine bunk beds 26", no mattress, vgc, £60. Child's violin, 3/4 size with case exc. cond. £90. Tel: 814378 (Wroughton) Dining table, 54 x 31 plus 4 ladder back chairswith upholstery seats, oak coloured, condition as new, heat resistant cover for table, £125 ono. Tel: 870273

Wardrobe, wood effect, good cond, £15. Red foam sofa, £10. The Realisation System (12 volumes) £40. Tel: 879223 2 Shreiber wall units, with drawers, cupboards, shelves, exc cond. both for £50. Tel: 770662/618794 Argos black ash effect hifi unit, depth 40cm, width 48cm, height 80cm, good condition, £10. Tel: 488468 (Toothill) Stainless steel large sink with right hand drainer, vg quality and cond, with taps, 225. Tel: 770662/618794 Roof tiles about 6,000 to cover about 100 sq metres, £300. Tel: 770662/618794 Metal toolbox, 2 tier, 3 adj spanners, 4 wood chisels 1/4", 1/2", 3/4" 1", 3 adj spanners, 10", 8", 6" as new, lock& keys, £18 ono. Tel: 726833 (Haydon Wick) 6ft high rubber plant, £20 ono. 3ft Yucca plant, £12 ono. 2ft banana plant £8 ono. Various winter coats & jackets, all clean, dearest £20. Brown leather ladies boots, size 7, £7, new condition. Tel; 431299 Ford clock suitable J reg. onwards Fiesta, boxed, exc cond. with instruction, fittings, no offers. Tel: 874767 (Westlea) Tyre Dunlop SP6 155R 13 (78T), good condition, £14. Tel: 812750 (Westlea) Y reg Metro, 55,000 miles, genuine exc cond. 1 year M0T, 6 months tax, must be seen, £450 ovno. Tel: 874861 (Westlea)

Male black cat, Westminster Rd, Toothill, has been around for several weeks, quite friendly, though timid. Tel: 530538

Wanted Local charity seeks fax machine either low cost or free. Tel: 527664

For hire Father Christmas outfit, £5. Tel: 870666 Father Christmas outfit, £5. Tel: 874343

Exchange 2 bed Council maisonette in Sevenfield, gas c/h to exchange for 2 or 3 bed house in Freshbrook or Toothill, or would consider other Swindon areas. Tel: 721819. 2 bed semi detached house with large garden to exchange for 3 bed house, most areas considered. Tel: 876146

Registered childminder Vacancies for part-time and after-school care. Oliver Tomkins pick up, warm, loving environment, individual attention for your child, as numbers are kept low. Meals, activities, outings and relaxing times provided. For interview or more details tel: 873594

r Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 16th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication)

Local Lives On the Convoy of Hope for Croatia

DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE

Peter Winton from Grange Park returned to Swindon on Saturday 21 October after travelling across Europe to deliver humantarian aid to Croatia. Here he gives a graphic account of the trip. At 730am on 17 October land two other members from Thamesdown Rotary Club climbed into a 7.5 ton lorry kindly lent to us by Bow Transport. It was full of humanitarian aid donated by local businesses, members of the public, local children and members of Thamesdown Rotary Club. Ahead lay two days of driving the 1,100 miles from Calais to Zagreb. We were part of a 27 vehicle convoy from all over England and Wales - The Convoy of Hope for Croatia - the brainchild of two Rotarians from Cardiff.

cause of the number of inhabitants killed and buried at the side of the road. We travelled about five or six miles along that road and as far as the eye could see every house had been destroyed or severely damaged. There is no industry in this area, only farming, and yet we saw no sign of life, not a cow, sheep or pig and no human being. Those people who were not killed fled the area as quickly as they could. They became displaced persons. The only place they could find sanctuary was in a refugee camp.

eas, excluding farm land. There is high unemployment in the agricultural areas, and state benefits amount to £1.50 per head per week. The aid we distributed, in the form of food, flour, sugar, blankets and bedding, medical supplies, toiletries, nappies, towelling, and clothing was gratefully received and was either delivered by us to individuals or hospitals or to responsible people like Anna at Novska. On behalf of Thamesdown Rotary Club, I thank all who donated items to the convoy, your generosity was very much appreciated by the recipients in Croatia.

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.4 Peter Winton, left, Steve Menham, head of Tregoze School, Grange Park and some of the children who sent packed shoeboxes to children in Croatia This was our first direct involveWhy can't they return now that ment with the convoy. For our the fighting has ended? In some of leaders Mike and Baz, it was their the less damaged areas a few have fourteenth trip. Their first took returned and communities are replace when the war was raging. building houses. The Croatian Everything appeared normal as Government allows about £2,000 we crossed the Croatia border on towards the cost, the remainder 19 October. However, later the has to be funded by the house same day, signs of conflict were owners. Luckily they do not have clearly visible on the buildings in to worry about planning or buildNovska. Here, Anna, a 68 year old ing regulations, but this does nothvolunteer looks after the interests ing to replace their personal posof 5,000 refugees in the area. sessions and furniture. Why are there refugees? Well, The biggest problem facing these what would you do if you came people, however, is not where to home one day to find that your live, but how to survive in an agrihome and everything in it had been cultural area where the land candestroyed? You might say that not be worked. An estimated 5 you would go and stay with rela- million anti-personal mines have tives or friends. What happens, been sown in the areas where fightthen, when the homes of those rela- ing took place. In some cases there tives and friends have also been are maps showing mined areas. In destroyed. Where do you go? Im- others, mines have been scattered possible, you say, that could never indiscriminately. Even where the happen, not on that scale. exact location of the minefield is The truth is, it has happened in known the only method available Croatia. The village of Lasinja was for clearing them, is by painstaktotally destroyed, not a single ingly probing every square metre house was left habitable. Between with a hand-held probe to find a the towns of Slunj and Gospic, we mine 6.5cm in diameter and 3.5 cm drove through a beautiful valley, deep. It will take at least 10 years now called the Death Valley be- to clear them from populated ar-

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