November 2002 by swindonlink6

No. 246 • November 2002 Circulation 22.000

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Book now for L Christmas Kathy Kirby, 73, is one of Swindon's many unsung heroes. But her voluntary commitment to helping her friends and neighbours at George Tweed Gardens at Shaw Village Centre was recognised when she received the Mayor's citizens award in early October. Story on page 3. Above, Kathy with her friends Jean Waller, left, and Joyce Telling who secretly nominated her

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2 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Hopes for £20,000 from Indu's event Organisers of a fundraising evening in memory of Inderjeet Bharaj have achieved their target of £10,000 for the Great Western Hospital's Evolution Appeal. British Petroleum UK agreed good cause. I cannot thank them evening such a success." beforehand to double the amount enough for their support. And I'd The money raised will be diraised. also like to thank all those who rected to the respiratory unit at the Two hundred people attended worked so hard to make the Great Western Hospital. the dinner, auction and entertainEarthquake relief cash ment at King Edward's Place in Twenty thousand pounds raised by Swindon's Hindu community Wanborough on 5 October to reafter the devastating earthquake which hit the Indian state of Gujarat member Inderjeet who died of a in 2000 is now being spent building 12 houses in a new village of 52 sudden asthma attack in February homes for families made homeless. in The Prinnells, close to her home in Grange Park. An exhibition of the progress was Her mother Balbir Bharaj said, -= ^ « put on display by "Indu touched so many people and the Hindu Samaj at they wanted to be there to help a the Link Centre dur«'Right, Balbir Bharaj, with her sons ing the festival of Kay and Karan Navaratri in mid- r f f October. ? r^ Right, a house under

construction

"•'

Norman's spirit takes him north Swindon's intrepid adventurer Norman Butler from Westlea has sold his trusty rowing boat the Spirit of Swindon to another team attempting an Atlantic crossing. Now he has the icy wastes off the coast of Canada in mind as he has been accepted for the transpolar race for the magnetic North Pole next April.

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Norman with the boat he built to take him to the Caribbean a year ago

Up to 12 teams of two or three members will set out from Resolute Bay and ski across 400 miles of frozen arctic ocean, pulling all their supplies with them in sleds. As well as getting back into heavy training for the ordeal, Norman will also prepare to work in a team and raise sponsorship.

Norman is experienced in managing others in extremes, having supported his rowing partner Phil Scantlebury across the Atlantic. His wife Linda said she was coming to terms with Norman's next adventure. To sponsor him, call 882197, mail: norman@benwellclose.freeserve.co.uk

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The Link Magazine • November 2002

Surprise award for good neighbour Swindon councillors took a brief break from their struggles to keep the council on an even keel on 26 September to recognise the voluntary work of Kathy Kirby, 73, who lives at George Tweed Gardens, Shaw Village Centre. George Tweed Gardens, parUnbeknowed to Kathy, ticularly when they get toher friends Jean Waller and gether for parties. Apparently Joyce Telling had written to the Mayor nominating her her pole dancing performance to receive a citizen's award is very entertaining. The Mayor told the counin the good neighbour category. cil there had been many exJoyce said Kathy had cellent nominations but given her a new spirit to live Kathy's commitment to othafter an unsuccessful operaers moved the judges. tion for Meniers Disease a Having been driven to the few years ago had left her council offices in the Mayor's bed ridden, deaf in one ear car, Kathy said they had plans and off balance. "Kathy is for afterwards. "I hope the such a good friend; she The Mayor coun Stan Pajak presents Kathy Kirby council meeting goes on a bit helped get me out of my flat with a certificate of appreciation and an engraved so we can visit some pubs on and now Igo out by myself." Galway crystal plate in front of councillors our way home." Jean said that she had been hospitalised three times this year DO YOU Know an unsung nero-! and Kathy was always there - for shopping, collecting prescriptions Two citizens awards have been made and a third will be announced at the council meeting on 21 November. The Mayor cou p Stan Pajak, and doing housework. She said, "Joyce saw the piece Deputy Mayor coun Derek Benfield and last year's mayor coun David about the awards in The Link and Cox would like to receive nominations in the following categories: Closing date Presentation we thought Kathy needed recogni- Category 27 December 9 January tion for all her help and friendship." Environment 18 February 4 March For Kathy, the nomination came Sporting achievement 10 April 24 April as a complete surprise. "Helping Work for charity The individual should have been born, or live or work in Swindon, others is something you do naturally," she said. "I really did not or have strong links with the borough. For information about making a nomination, contact the Mayor's expect to get any award for it." Kathy's cheerful disposition is secretary Carole Deamer at the Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon well known to other residents of SN1 2JH or mail: mayor@swindon.gov.uk

Get ready for winter says Age Concern The mild weather in September and October came to an end and with the clocks changing, chilly times are with us for a few months. So the message from Age Concern Most homes in West and North Swindon is: 'gear up for winter Swindon may be well insulated and give bad weather the cold and even centrally-heatedbutthere shoulder.' are plenty of precautions people still need to take, says Age Concern Swindon director Jo Osorio. "Contact us for a free Winter Information Pack to help prepare. It contains useful, easy-to-

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warm, energy efficiency, staying healthy, money benefits, grants for heating and insulation and sources of help and advice." Age Concern Swindon is also appealing for donations towards their Fight the Freeze Golden Anniversary winter fund to support the helpful services the organisation will be providing to thousands of older people during the winter. Contact them on 692166 or write to 14 Milton Road SN1 5JE for the free information pack or to make a donation. Call Age Concern Swindon also to offer your time and energy as a volunteer.

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4 The Link Magazine • November 2002

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The public have been given more time to comment on how Swindon's draft local plan should be drawn up and views should now be expressed by 25 November. The local plan provides a basis sites and areas for communi ty and for considering future planning recreation facilities, as well as proapplications and use of land in the tectingthebestoftheborough'sbuilt borough until 2011. and natural environment. Government policy requires The plan can be viewed at SwinSwindon to find room for nearly don Council's offices at Premier 7,500 more houses in the town by House and Wat Tyler House and 2011. About half, 3,500, will be built also libraries across the town. Obon small parcels of land in the town jections or statements supporting or on previously developed policies or proposals should be 'brownfield' sites. The Front Gar- made on standard response forms den is expected to provide for 4,500. available at these venues. All comments will be taken into The draft plan also suggests a major employment site, provides consideration in producing the the basis for town centre regenera- next draft of the plan which is protion, identifies new park and ride grammed for summer 2003.

Correcting the October Link Charmian Spickernell of the Swindon branch of the Council for the Protection of Rural England writes: With regard to the article head- and indeed undermine the Govlined 'Front garden still unneces- ernment aim to involve the comsary says environmental group', munity in planning. In the article on the same page whilst generally welcomed, it quoted me as accusing Swindon 'Planning Swindon's Future - a Council of bending the rules by chance to have a say' about the allowing the Front Garden plan- draft Local Plan, Kevin Small is ning application to be submitted quoted as saying: 'This plan affects before consultation on the Local everybody... It's vital local organisations and residents are involved Plan has taken place. I wish to state that I have not in shaping it as it'll have signifispoken or written any such accu- cant implications for the developsation. Anyone can submit a plan- ment of our borough over the next ten years and beyond.' ping application at any time. It would indeed be serious if the What I did say was that the application had been submitted in planning application for the Front advance of statutory consultation Garden prejudiced the community on the draft Local Plan to 2011. In having a say on planning the fuCPRE's view, therefore, it was pre- ture. This is one of the reasons why mature as it is believed that ap- CPRE and others are asking for the proval of the Front Garden before application to be called in by the consultation on the Local Plan has Secretary of State. Meanwhile there is an opporturun its course (which should include the opportunity for objec- nity now to comment both on the tions to be heard at an inquiry) application and on the Local Plan would prejudge and therefore se- to ask for Swindon's brownfields i verely prejudice that consultation to be redeveloped first.

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the Link Maga :ioe Published by Swindon Publications Ltd.

Papermakers House. Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

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to 233 Ferndale Road J Publisher/Editor: Swindon Swindon Editorial: r

Tel: (01793) 536657

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"The Link was first published for the Wet Swindon community in December 1978. ItiscompletelyindependentofLinkCentrE and, in tact, won a competition to name the

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Tel, 101793) 872282

Swindon commenced in January 1994." The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photo graphs require similar authority

Registered in E ngland & Wales. No. 4513027. Registered Office. 13i High Street, H ungerford, Berks. RG17 ODL. Printed by pcp, Telford

The Link Maciazine • November 2002 5

Council hopes to avoid takeover by Prescott's hit men as well as an elected mayor referendum Incoherent objectives, weak senior management, party political bickering and poor public relations are the underlying themes of a report on Swindon Council's performance to be published in December. Although release of the Comprehensive Performance Assessment report was delayed after the lead inspector from the Audit Commission was taken ill during a presentation to councillors at the end of August, council leader Kevin Small, right, outlined its criticisms in early October and gave an account of how the council is going about tackling its well publicised problems. He said the key recommendations included establishing clear, prioritised objectives, strengthening senior management, taking realistic and robust financial decisions and seeking greater cooperation between political parties, in a council where none has overall majority. The council also has to sell itself better and rebuild the confidence in it by the people of Swindon. Being the third leader in six months, having taken over in July, coun Small said there was a greater spirit of cooperation in the corridors of power. "Education and Social Services remain the council's priorities. We are starting to see results with our education partners Tribal Group and we are get-

When pressed by The Link as to whether the council would offer Swindon people a referendum in next May's elections on the question of an elected mayor, he said he did not think councillors would reconsider the decision made last year to continue with the leader/ cabinet model of local government. The Government is understood to be considering whether to force failing councils to hold such a referendum.

ting to grips with the ov erspending situation in Social Services. The top management team was weakened when the council cut back on senior officers two years ago and we are recruiting people willing to take on the challenge. "The issues raised we can tackle. If not, we don't deserve a second chance if we cannot get it right." The steps being taken by the council will have to satisfy the Deputy Prime Minister's office. The alternative is being placed in spe-

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6 The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2002

Shaun's crossing ready for dedication After a long campaign pedestrians crossing Corton Crescent between Westlea and the West Swindon district centre have gained a higher level of safety after the completion of a controlled crossing. Final adjustments on the new lights will be Toothill / Westlea councillor David Cox said, completed by end of October so that a cer- "a lot of people have worked hard to make the emony can be held to dedicate the crossing to case for the crossing - residents, Westlea School, Shaun Shirley in early November. Asda, local councillors and The Link. Shaun, 13, from Toothill was knocked down "But I would appeal to drivers to still be on 17 January 2001 and later died of his inju- vigilant on Corton Crescent; it's a busy road ries. with a blind bend." Campaigner Dawn Dolphin said parents will Coun Mary Martin, who also represents the be pleased with the safety measures. "Hun- area, welcomed the lights. "Common sense has dreds of Westlea School children use the cross- prevailed and the council has delivered. Coning every week to go to swimming lessons and gratulations to all those who campaigned for parents will now be more assured. the crossing. " However, it should be pointed out that if "We're dedicating the site as Shaun's Crossing to remind people of the tragic loss of a the decision was made now, it is very unlikely child." the money would be reallocated. "Ear li er this year the cabinet rearranged its spending plan in response to calls from the West area panel, going against officer recommendation to spend the money on the Tewkesbury Cross roundabout.

Azc,iiting completion at Corton Crc5cent, D^i^'id Cox and Mary Martin .Watch children from Westlea school crossing to swimming lessons

"The new area panel structure since May means they meet less often and has become a large group including Western, Pinehurst, Penhill and Gorse Hill wards."

First of two Brook Field toucans in operation A new set of pedestrians lights has been installed on a busy section of Cartwright Drive outside Brook Field School in Shaw.

with her sons

Alttstai

Findlay

Unlike the crossing at Corton Crescent which has been funded from Swindon Council's road safetybudget, the Cartwright Drive lights have been paid for by a special ÂŁ25,000 Safer Routes to School grant from the government. Parent governor Claire Walker said walking safely to school was a priority issue for governors. "We carried out intensive studies of how children and parents get to school and made a comprehensive report to support our bid. We're delighted with the lights and are looking forward to the second set on Peatmoor Way."

D ^5 N^ Duncan's Hair Studio at Shaw Village Centre has changed its name to Olga's Hair Studio and owners Olga and Keith have updated the salon with a

Over the course of last year

complete refurbishment.

Senior stylist Tracey, along with

Olga says "we were a bit apprehensive about changing the salon as there was nothing

Olga, is qualified to the highest

Olga and Keith have recruited some excellent staff in Tracey

Bonner, Natasha Anderson and Leanne Keogh.

standard within the industry and together they posses 25 years experience.Though competent in all aspects of their trade both

wrong with it. However we've

been here a year now and we had our own plans, though naturally we wanted to keep what's good about it. It's thanks

Olga and Tracey excel in the technical side of hairdressing such as colouring, perms, re-styling and colour correction.

to the support of our customers and hard work from

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our staff that we have achieved this so soon."

Olga, centre right, and her staff: from left, Natasha, Tracey, Leanne

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If you're after a new style, cut or colour call in for a free informal consultation or phone 874825 to book an appointment

Unit 3, Ramleaze ouse, Shaw Village Centre, Shaw, Swindon. Tel: 874825 Open: Tuesday & Wednesday: 9am - 6pm;Thursday & Friday: 9am - 7pm; Saturday: 8.30am - 3.30pm

The Link Magazine • November 2002 7

Perry gets his way to gain vital life saving seconds

Plans on show for new

A new access road into Westlea fire station is already proving an invaluable life saving route for fire Freshbrook play area fighters in an emergency. The fort play tower has gone and train hard in accident ex- a new design for the refurbished They are based at home °` ' Mead Park play area off Worsley trication techniques. when on stand-by at night = "There is a'golden hour' Road, Freshbrook will be put on '*" ° and weekends and have to after a serious accident: 20 display at Freshbrook Commuturnout and be on the apc! minutes to get there, 20 nity Centre from 11 to 15 Novempliance within minutes of `° ber. minutes to extract the Y a call. But up to two min 7 Amongst the proposals are a todtim into an ambulance and utes was being lost driv20 minutes to get to hospi- dler play area with swings, a small ing round the block to the station. tal. There is a good chance slide and spring see saw on a rubof saving a life if we can ber safety surface. Now, after persistent Nearby will be a multi-play unit persuasion from Subachieve this. officer Perry Payne and a "Seconds count and we designed for over 10s on a bark great deal of cooperation would like to express our surface, and also a teen shelter. Construction should start in from Swindon Council, sincere appreciation to all . local contractors and indiwho have assisted in the January after public consultation and councillor approval. viduals, a short road has project." been built from Mead Way Perry Payne, right, with Group I directly into the fire station yard. colleagues, from left, Simon Owen, It's taken five years of persua- Glyn Moody, Mark Truckle, Lee sion to get permissions and dona- Braithwaite, Paul Jarmey Conveyancing (On-Line Estimate Service) tions for the road now dubbed Perry's Way by other firefighters. "Tithegrove Construction help"The brigade recognised the ed with ground works whilst our LAWYERS need but just did not have the spare own Paul Jarmey operated a digfunds to pay for the access," ex- ger lent by Brandon Tool Hire. plained Perry. "We went out to the Other lads from Group 1 watch For more information or detailed conveyancing costs visit: council and local builders for help. were out there with spades as well." Without question, the cooperation Warning signs and road markOr contact us at. Commerce House from all departments at Swindon ings on Mead Way have been inCouncil has been immense. Swin- stalled to keep the route clear. 34/35 Commercial Road don Services project managed the "We save more people from road Swindon SN1 5NS job and threeof their employees traffic accidents compared to fires Email: info@crd.org.uk Terry Roberts and his son Jeff, and on a ratio of 5 to 1," said Perry. Tel: (01793) 617617 Steve Harrod did much of the block "The RTA emergency support veFax: (01793) 511249 laying work in their own time. hicle is based at Westlea and we

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8 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Cash from casual wear

Abbey Meads association appeals for residents participation

Youngsters at Greenmeadow School once again dressed down in mid-October for Jeans for Genes day. Over the last four years the children and staff have raised nearly £1,000. Organising teacher Helen Richmond said that the children wanted to help others suffering from genetic disorders and were always enthusiastic about raising money for research and development of treatments. All casual at Greenmeadow, back, Ross Hillier,

The September Link reported the plea of one community association for support, now we hear of another in difficulties and in danger of folding.

Abbey Meads Community Association has a Haydon Wick Community Association had a good response to pleas for participation when good record of winning concessions from Swinover 60 residents attended its AGM on 16 Sep- don Council, public utilities and house buildtember. But, a few days earlier, only nine peo- ers over the last five years. To continue with ple had attended the annual meeting of the this campaigning work and the development of community groups, it needs better represenneighbour association at Abbey Meads. With no quorum present, the meeting had to tation from individuals and local organisabe adjourned until Wednesday 13 November, tions. The existing committee is hoping that as many people as possible will attend the admiddle, Hannah Kitching, Kyra Tavernier, Kristi 8pm at the Church of Christ The Servant in journed meeting. Abbey Meads village centre. Murphy. Front, Daniel Cushion, Marcus Carr

Social housing boost in North Swindon The Mayor of Swindon coun Stan Pajak marked the official opening of a E10 million social housing scheme in the Groundwell area of Abbey Meads with a self-penned poem on National Poetry Week. The 130 one to four bed

houses and flats built by Barratt are managed by Westlea, Jephson and United housing associations who have established a local lettings policy with Swindon Council. New tenant Linda Turner said, "it's a lovely area, very quiet and friendly." To boost community spirit, husband Simon and neighbour Miles Willis are hoping to start 5 a side football sessions on the Abbey Meads primary school weather pitch.

Linda Turner, centre, shows off her home on open day, from left, Angela Clapp, Westlea Tenant Board Member, Daphne Wheeler, Chair, Westlea Housing Association, Guy Reid-Bailey, Chair, United Housing Association

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10 The Link Magazine • November 2002

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Counting down to 5 November and 3 December Two big dates loom large for health provision in Swindon. On 5 November the Swindon and Marlborough Health Care Trust takes over the Great Western Hospital from builders Carillion, three years after construction started in October 1999.

Departments will then start to move from PMH, the a rapid run down of PMH will take place so that all bulk of the equipment will be installed and services will quickly operate from the new hospital. The Link made a second visit in October to the commissioned, staff trained and beds prepared. On 3 December the first patients will arrive. For a short Great Western to update the photos which appeared ti me some departments will operate on dual sites but in the March edition. Left, waiting for the operating table. The hospital will have ten theatres and 19 per cent more clinical space.

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Left, the main foyer reaching five floors from earth to sky will be used by most visitors. Note the huge stained glass window by Amber Hiscott featured in the October Link. Other entrances will give access to specialist departments. Twenty four buses an hour will pull up to the front entrance,. Closeby there are 1,100 car parking spaces, the same number as PMH.

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Below, everything has been done to make children's visits to hospital as easy as possible. Great thought has been pu into fun decoration - look out for pirate ships, islands and seaside scenes. Note the unusual lighting effects installed in the corridor ceilings, the dolphins on the floor and palm trees on the doors.

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Possibly the largest and cheapest range of fabrics in Wiltshire attended by experienced staff

Selection of blinds available to order

CLOTH CABIN 30 MORLEY STREET SWINDON

Tel: 01793 422084 All major credit cards accepted'

0 Got a question, a worry or a problem about the Great Western Hospital? Write ore-mail it to The Link and we'll get an answer for you (address on page 4). The Trust are more than happy to clarify issues and clear up rumours for readers.

HEALTH POINT Arthur Cohen R.H.A.D. M.S.H.A.A.

PHOENIX SURGERY

COUNTY HEARING AID

Dunwich Drive,Toothill Village Centre

SERVICES

SarviKg West utd C e4ttflat

The world's finest hearing aids at the most competitive prices. Home visits without charge or obligation.

CHEMIST WEST :SWINDON CENTRE

Surthdow

Dr Peter Swinyard Dr Robert Forrester Dr Anke Lehmkuhl

Special terms for over 60s. Thirty day full money back gnu ian/rc.

Tel: 01793 870047 6 Romnc} Way, The Laurels, Shaw, Swindon, SN5 5QB

COOPER

New patients welcome • (01793) 600440

Whatever the problem....

Also at Coopers West Swindon Centre Fine fragrances, toiletries, ear piercing and

Allergy testing HFor

a brighte r tomorrow"

ssociates

"Hypnosis has now become one of the most scient ifi cally accepted of all complementary therapies" Dr Hilary Jones

Anxiety Stress Smoking Panic Weight Self-esteem Sleep Phobias

Tel: 872033

Andrew Hill B.Sc (Hans)

Open 7 days a week

Consultant Hypnotherapist & Stress Counsellor

Call 01793 873451 for a free confidential assessment

Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm, Sat 9am - 6pm, Sun I Oam - 31

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Cij00t

Ashington Way Pharmacy, West Swindon

Shaw Chiropractic Clinic

Free hearing test and advice

Shaw Village Centre

aub CErinic

• Specialists in individual hearing care • Service and repairs to all makes of hearing aids • Digital programmable hearing aids

IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM:

,SWINDON

Consultations by appointment only MR S COOKE RHAD MSHAA Hearing Aid Specialist Ashington Way Pharmacy (next to Ashington Surgery) Ashington Way. Westlea, Swindon

Tel: 01793 616840 "Our hearing aid advisory service has helped many people with their hearing problems" Call us and hear how we can help you. Home visits can be arranged.

Acupuncture at f^

Taw Hill Medical Practice Mark Ackland BSc PhD LicAc MBAcc

Appointments Call: 07973-185151 SESSIONS MONDAYS (09:00 TO 12:00) AND FRIDAYS (16:00 TO 19:00) Please contact the Practice or Visit wwcv.tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk for details TAWHILL M DI CAL PRACTICE, QUEEN ELIZABETH DRIVESWIN TEL 0 1793 7095 00- FAX 0 179 3 723878 E-MAIL ENQUIRIE5mTAWHILLSUROERY.NNS.UK

Backache, Leg pain

0 Neck, Shoulder,

Arm Pain

0 Headache & Migraine Sciatica 0 Sports Injury 0 Arthritis Whiplash

0 0

YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

FREE chirochecks available

For further details contact:

SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C. SIMON BODLEY BSc. D.C. Tel: (01793) 887801

Fax: (01793) 882298 Opening times

Mon: 8am - 8pm Tues & Fri: 8am - 8.30pm Wed & Thurs: 8.30am - 8pm Sat: 8.30am - 1pm Members of BCA • Registered with GCC Members of the College of Chiropractors

Professional Healing Courses Learn this ancient healing art Rciki is a safe, completely natural and highly effective complementary therapy.

Rciki is not a religion or belief system

Courses available at all levels. small informal groups, individual attention, comprehensive manual, ce rt ificated. After course guidance and suppo rt . FREE INFORMATION PACK

Reiki Master/Teacher. Guild of Complimentary Practitioners

F. J. Taylor, (01793) 529360 Mobile: 07740 516238

Reiki treatments available for relief of Iress, pain, depression, lost' energy, etc. reikifred@aol.com reikischool.net

12 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Children's Information Service Swindon Drop in and see what we have to offer Monday to Friday, 1 Oam to 3pm

13 Market Street, Swindon Tel: 01793 541786: 9.30am to 4.30pm (with ansaphone) We provide FREE information on anything to do with children aged 0-14 years,

e.g. childcare. social activities, funding and working with children CIS is supported by the Early Years Development & Childcare Partnership Reg. charity: 1081621 V

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Moonwalk founder to set fundraising ball rolling

Walking the Big Apple for breast cancer

Organisation for next year's London Moonwalk marathon to raise money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer and the Bristol Cancer Help Centre starts two months early in November when Walk the Walk founder Nina Baru visits the Link Centre to meet the enthusiastic women and men who have made Swindon the largest contributor of people from one town to the annual event. Next May a total 10,000 women and a few men don decorated bras to take part. Over the last three years the number walking under

the team banner of Swindon Twin Peaks has risen from around twenty to over 200. Since 1998 they have raised £200,000. inade-

Three Swindon women take off for the USA on 1 November in aid of Walk the Walk to take part in the New York marathon.

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SWINDON

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Lesley Dredge and Denise Jones ther from Nine Elms, above, will be ncil joined by Liz Haren from Wootton y 18 Bassett and 21 other women from 'ast Britain who will power walk 26 miles around the skyscapers and and ters bridges of Manhattan and its outm d. lying boroughs. Denise and Liz have been to the recost USA before, but it's a first visit for win all three to New York. "We're going to do and see as much as we call can in five days," said Denise. ail: To sponsor the three walkers, call 778070. corn

Conservatory Blinds

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PARENTS Would you like these benefits for your child? Respect -fence Discipline rocus Temper Control Cnnfiderrce Classes

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The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2002 13

Soft touch for hi-energy play

The National Childbirth Trust needs you

Youngsters who visit the West Swindon Family Project in Freshbrook A charity concerned with parents and children is calling for new now have the chance to burn off excess energy indoors, thanks to a members to attend its annual general meeting, and for people to take newly completed soft play room decorated by artist Gordon Dickinson up important committee positions. from No Added Sugar. Established over 40 years ago natal co-ordinator, a newsletter Play worker Julie Batson said a Gordon has transposed onto the the National Childbirth Trust editor or newsletter team, and a y lottery Awards For All grant gave walls. They love their pictures on (NCT) supports parents duringthe Ma a Bra representative. All of the committee members are parearlyyearsoftheirchildren'slives. the project the chance to enclose a the black background and the colpassageway by the house and re- ourful softcushions and foam filled It also campaigns to improve poli- ents of young children. For details, call Sarah Wilmott place old equipment to create a blocks; in fact it can become a com- cies on parenting and child care. The 100 strong Swindon NCT on 07005 801635. safe place to play in the garage. plete madhouse sometimes." "The children came up with the For details of Family Project branch run by volunteers is probi mmigration outer space drawings and their groups, activities and courses, call ably best known for its twice yearly & citizenship advice nearly new sales at the Oasis. It ideas for strange creatures which 871303. also offers antenatal classes, par- Veneta Hannibal from the SwinWith Gordon Dickinson, from left, Liam Bond, Jessica Carol, Sacha Cox. Front, ent and child groups, breastfeeding don Racial Equality Council holds David Syme, Nicole Syme, Lily Trotman, Danni Clifford and project worker Julie counsellors and a parents only so- free and confidential advice sesBatson sions at Millen Advice Point, 55 cial group. All the services are available to Manchester Road on the third everyone and are not dependent Wednesday of the month, loam to on membership. However mem- l2noon. Alternatively contact Veneta for bership income is important for an appointment at Swindon Racial the branch to exist. At the AGM on 25 November, Equality Council, Faringdon 8pmatJigsawDayNursery,Wind- House, 1 Faringdon Road. Tel: mill Hill, the branch is looking for 528545. Office hours: Monday to a new chairperson, secretary, post- Friday gam to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm.

National fll SehoolwearLJL

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39 Brunel Arcade Swindon Tel: 01793 520843

We stock a wide range of schoolwear: ages 4 -18 years Also official stockists of Brownies, Cubs, Scouts and Guides uniforms and a full range of Hush Puppy shoes

SWINDON ACADEMY OF 1.

Pre-Prep Sch ol 4-7 yrs Nursery School 2-4 yrs

Baby Nursery 0 2 yrs

Ballet, Tap, Modern & Jazz classes held for boys and girls from two and a half years upwards at: =

Haydon Centre Abbey Meads Community School

Prior Park Prep School 7-13 years Holiday School Flexible fees

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From ÂŁ2.50 per hour Nursery Grant Open 7.S0am-6.0opm

Meadowpark School un [PA r nFl y t-laiililt

Stratton Community Centre

Meadowpark Nursery and Pre-Prep School

A Meadowpark is a well established thriving

Blunsdon Village Hall

Calcutt Street Cricklade Swindon SN6 6BB Contact Mrs S Hanbury or Mrs R Kular

A Conveniently located for Swindon and

For more details and enquiries, call 01793 524112 Established for over 12 years. All staff fully qualified

Tel: 01 793 752600

school with faultless DfEE and OFSTED reports across the 0-7 years age range the surrounding area in a pleasant rural environment in the grounds of Prior Park Prep School A Come and see why past and present

parents believe we are unique A Registrations being accepted for 2003. Certain places available for 2002

14 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Professional painting & decorating services by Paul Exton • Interior and exterior • Domestic & commercial • Specialist finishes • Free estimates

rTel:01793-874139 07919104146 e-mail: paulexton@lineone.net

J.F.K BUILDING SERVICES Extensions, Alterations, Renovations All aspects of garden construction including fencing All general building work

Tel: Mr J.F. Keenan (01793) 727824

SW',. C•EL gRATFS A week of events to mark International Day of Disabled People: 26 November to 10 December Friday 29th, 4pm to 7pm Ability to Drive, Wroughton Airfield. Friday 29th Art — come and try it! at Avebury Saturday 30th, 10am to 4pm Sports for All, Haydon Centre Demonstratation and participation in goal ball, keep fit, wheelchair rugby, basketball and soccer, tennis, boccia and curling. Turn up and try. Sunday 1st December, 10am to 4pm Place Check: starting from the former railway museum. Get up close and personal with the Railway Village heritage site, draw and take photographs. Tuesday 3rd Exhibition of information and service providers at McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, the STEAM Museum and the former Railway Museum, Emlyn Square. Further activities are being organised. To receive a copy of the events brochure, call Steve Milner on 430045 or mail office@scodp.co.uk Organised by the Swindon Coalition of Disabled People.

Singing for Prospect A stirring performance by Swindon Choral Society of Carl Orff's work Carmina Burana raised the roof at the Wyvern Theatre in June, and also raised £2,050 for the Prospect Hospice. A cheque was presented to Prospect Committee member Eric Walker and community fundraiser Gillian Richardson in early October at a society rehearsal at Oliver Tomkins Junior School, Toothill. From left, Stuart Musgrove, chairman, Gillian Richardson, Kathy Danswan, public relations officer, Mark Kowalski, concert manager, Eric Walker, David Truslove, musical director

Tippling for Prospect. Teams will be competing for the Prospect Hospice 'Bouteille Perdue Challenge trophy in this year's race from Beaujolais to the Champagne region. The Prospect will receive £3.50 for every bottle sponsored back to the UK. For details, call Gillian Richardson on 815142.

Hair cut correction Last month our story on Asda staff having their heads shaved for the Great Western Hospital Evolution Appeal gave the wrong hair salon. Our apologies to Tracey Terrett and Louise Button who work for Partners at the West Swindon Centre, pictured right shaving Mark Webb, head of security.

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Bonfires and firework shows

Call Wendv on (01793)852829

Saturday 2 November Swindon Lions fireworks spectacular and fair, Polo Ground, Marlborough Road

WILLS

Gates open and funfair from 5.30pm: entertainment and GWR: 6pm; firework display: 7.15pm Advance tickets: £3 adults (over 16), £1.50 child (4 - 1 6years)/OAP, from various outlets including Victoria Bookshop, 30 Wood Street, Old Town; Nationwide Building Society. The Parade & Regent Street; Evening Advertiser, 100 Victoria Road. On the gate: £5 adult; £2 child/OAP.

Professionally drawn by

Free park and ride at Nationwide Car Park, Pipers Way. Allow 30 minutes travel to/from Polo Ground. Note: The police will take action against parking on coned-off streets around the Polo Ground.

THE AN D REWS PARTNERSHIP

Entertainment includes GWR Roadshow, Jet Set Jackie & Les Bicyclettes. Robbo the Clown, stilt walker, Bluebell Majorettes, Wroughton Silver Band. All proceeds to Lions charity work in the Swindon area.

A professionally prepared will can avoid delay and

Monday 4 November Fireworks display Brook Field School, Cartwright Drive, Shaw Gates open 5.30pm; fireworks 6.30pm. Refreshments & fairground rides Advance tickets: £2 adult, £1 child, £5 per family On the gate: £2.50 adult; £1.50 child; £6 per family Organised by The Friends of Brook Field School

distress for your family Home visit service: Single £49.95 • Double £69.95

Tel: (01793) 642245 www.theandrewsoartnershio.co.uk

Tuesday 5 November Bonfire & fireworks, Westlea School, Langstone Way, Westlea Gates open 5.30pm; bonfire 6pm, fireworks 6.30pm Tickets in advance from the school: £3 adult. £2 child, family of 4 £8.

Organised by Friends of Westlea School Saturday 9 November 1st Purton & Lydiard Scouts bonfire & fireworks spectacular, Events Field, Lydiard Park Car parking via Hook Street from 5.30pm. Bonfire 6pm Tickets on the gate: £4 adult, £2 child Sunday 10 November Fireworks spectacular, Swindon Town Centre 5pm. View Regents Street, Canal Walk Sponsored by Swindon Town Centre Management & Swindon Initiative In the interests of safety please leave all fireworks and sparklers at home.

Arts Centre disaster An exciting list of concerts, talks and workshops has been cancelled and 15,000 colour printed programmes have had to be scrapped after the planned 11 November opening of Swindon Arts Centre in Old Town was delayed by two months. Rotten floorboards in the Victorian building discovered at the end of September during the £665,000 refurbishment are to

blame. "This bad news is hugely disappointing but we had no choice," said Jill Tomalin at the Arts Delayed: the first public apCentre. "It's an old pearance by a yeti, or is it Wiltshire explorer David building and things Hempleman-Adams?

can go wrong unexpectedly. It was not possible to bring in extra labour because of the restricted working area

and the delays had a knock on effect on the delivery of the new glass entrance atrium." The Arts Centre should now reopen in January.

Mu kA nice 1.1, grown

^CLFARC.HANNEL

Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 IQN

^^ °°

BOX OFFICE : 01793 524481

Swindon Wide Top bandsmen to pass it on

A family run business offering great service and very low prices. If you can find it cheaper, we will beat that price on the spot. PART EXCHANGE WELCOME.

Three top session musicians will lead a funk/fusion clinic in the Greendown School drama studio on Sunday 17 November. 2pm.

COMPACT CAMERAS Examples: Minolta Vectis 300 (with case) ....£149.95 Olympus Mju Zoom 80 Watch Kit..£129.95 SINGLE LENS REFLEX Canon EOS 300 with 28/90 ....... £229.95 Minolta Dynax 4 + 28/80G ........£209.95

Keith LeBlanc, above, will be joined by Manu Ventura on guitar

Classics for MS Society

Xmas carnival fun

West Swindon pianist and local teacher Stephanie Exell hosts a musical evening in aid of the Swindon branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society on Wednesday. 13 November at Bath Road Methodist Church, 7.45 pm. Entitled 'A Little Night Music' Stephanie will be joined by pianist Paul Turner and the new University of Bath in Swindon Singers conducted by Sir Peter Beale. The concert will be a mix of classical solo piano. duets and songs.

Swindon's annual Christmas Car-

Tickets at £5 can be obtained from Paul Exell on 879193.

nival event hits the streets of the town centre on Sunday 24 November with a blaze of colour, noise and good humour. The fun packed procession with over 200 professional and community pe rf ormers starts by the "' 4 Town Hall at " o

°'s

10.30am and will weave down to Canal Walk.

There will be entertainment until 3pm.

and Nico Gomez on bass to talk

about how they have got to the top of their profession, demonstrating their styles and playing as a trio.

They certainly have a pedigree to impress. Keith has played with REM. Rolling Stones, Boyzone, DIGITAL CAMERAS Yashica Finecam S3X with case £299.95 Si-Pix Style-cam ........................£39.95 MEMORY CARDS Fu i32 MB SD Card ..................£29.95 j Fuji 128 MB C/F Card ...............£49.95

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James Taylor and Tina Turner. Manu has accompanied Court-

ney Pine and Julian Joseph whilst Nico has backed Bjork, Snowboy, Boy George and Ricky Martin. This one-off event organised by drum tutors Paul Ashman and

Steve Jobbins is not to be missed by local musical talent.

To book one of the limited number of tickets at £10, call Paul on 07785 770489, Steve on 07889 201815 or mail: clinic @stevejobbins.co.uk

Become a SFx Wizard Are you a budding Harry Potter or Gandalf the Grey? With both characters about to make a

big screen reappearance, here's a chance to learn how to cast

spells, fly on a broomstick and defeat terrible monsters at a digital visual effects Wizard School for 8 to 11 year olds run by Swindon Media workshop Cre8. You'll learn techniques used by the masters to create fantastic illusions. To book a place at £14 (conc. £10). call Cre8 on 463210.

StudleyGra-nge Craft Village Entrance through Blooms Garden Centre, Hay Lane

TAX C

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Workshop and display space available for a ceramicist • glass maker • leather worker • chocolatier Visit the craft village manager

for fu rt her details.

hf' See craftspeople at work. Have a go at making and decorating your own craft work. Great ideas for Christmas gifts.

Ball pool and cannons, tower slide, magic juggler plus Bonkers babes Gait toys play park Safe care in an enclosed play area within the craft village Bonkers bites cafe and ice cream parlour

Visit us next to Blooms Garden Centre, Hay Lane, close to Junction 16 on the M4

EATING OUT IN NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

Fill your tables in December To advertise in the pre-Christmas edition of The Link, published 30 November, call Jenni Fowler on 872531 or mail: advertising @swindonlink.com

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all all 887635 to book

PROMOTIONAL OFFER!

Children half price Monday to Friday

BOOK

NOW FOR CHRISTMAS

ilk Karaoke with Nikki every Sunday evening I * Function room with bar for party bookings up to 120 people

lunchtime

171-173 Faringdon Road, Swindon Tel: (01793) 616880/617000 PRIVATE CAR PARK AT REAR Monday to Thursday: 12noon - 2pm & 6pm - 11.30pm Frida y & Saturda y : 12noon - 2Dm & 6nm - 12 midnieht

Fireworks.

MILLENNIUM RADIO CARS WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM YOUR TAXI SERVICE, ALL YEAR ROUND INCLUDING CHRISTMAS? * I expect the phone to be answered within a few rings * I want the booking to go to the top of the list - even at the busiest times never want to hear the words `Sorry, we are fully booked'

WHAT YOU NEED IS AUTOBOOK y' ho4

THE VILLAGE TAVERN * Quiz night every Monday - cash prizes * Live music every Friday * Sunday lunch: 2 courses for £4.95

Eat as much as y ou can for onl y £13.95

invite you to celebrate the festive! season[ with them-

haffohai ChRestaura ai

THE WOODLANDS EDGE PEATMOOR VILLAGE CENTRE, NEXT TO THE CHINESE EXPERIENCE

For The Link advertising rates, go to www.swindonlink.com

3 c"

The management and staff of

To apply for a FREE Autobook card, call 542222. Leave your name and number, we'll get back to you

>, disco. FREE a

Saturday 2nd November ;Y. Children welcome all evening

SWIndGr wide

Into Arts & Crafts . Can't find what you want? Try us! Well worth a visit A few of the items we stock Airbrush Mosaic tiles Basket making Pergamano Beads & sequins Pyrography Quilling Candle making Glass paints Rug making Sculpting clay Sandy Art Cross stitch Silk fabrics Silk paints Face paints Hama beads Stamping Jewellery making Sewing threads Selection of haberdashery D.M.C. Main Agency Daylight lamps stockist 100s of other craft items and a huge range of products for the artist & student Picture framing service plus DIY framing supplies Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ Tel/Fax 01793 513069 Email: enquiries@facswindon.co.uk Phone for directions. Free parking

Venues

Music

The National Monuments Record Centre Kemble Drive. Tel: 414600 The Science Museum Wroughton Wroughton Airfield. Tel: 814466

Wednesday 23 October to Sunday 2 November, 7.30pm, matinees on Saturdays 26th and 2nd, 2.30pm. No show Sunday 27th Oliver presented by Swindon Amateur Light Operatic Society. £7£11. Wyvern

STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Town Hall Studios Regent Circus. Tel: 463210 The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Theatre Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th Much Ado About Nothing presented by The Ridgeway Theatre Company. Director Tina Burbidge has brought a twist to one of Shakespeare's wittiest comedies by setting it in Sicilian mafia country. Wed: £4: Thurs to Sat: £5, tickets from www.ridgewaytc.org.uk or call Ralph Jones on 740784. Holy Cross Church, Chiseldon Monday 25th, 1.30pm & 7.30pm; Tuesday 26th, 10am and 1.30pm Midsummer Night's Dream presented by Shakespeare 4 Kidz. From £6.50. Wyvern

Sunday 3rd, 6.30pm Festival of Remembrance. £7. Wyvern Wednesday 6th to Sunday 9th, 7.30pm & Sat Matinee 2.30pm Lets Go To The Movies presented by Tanwood Theatre School showcasing 250 young people dancing and singing. From £7.50. Wyvern Sunday 10th, 7.30pm Ga Ga -the ultimate tribute to Queen. £10.50. Wyvern Tuesday 12th, 7.30pm This Lonely Heart. The musical biography of Roy Orbison starring Larry Branson. £15. Wyvern Wednesday 13th, 7.30pm That'll Be The Day - new date added due to sell out success. £15. Wyvern Thursday 14th, 7.30pm Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra plays Schumann, Mendelssohn, Brahms, conductor Paul Daniel. £13.50 - £18.50, Wyvern Friday 15th, 7.30pm Mamma Mia Gold Jubilee Tour featuring Abba Magic and Bee Gees Magic. £16.50. Wyvern Tues 19th to Saturday 23rd, 7.30pm Kentwood Centre Stage. Popular music to suit all tastes. From £8.50. Wyvern Sunday 24th, 7.30pm The Elvis Collection starring Billy J McGregor. £11.50. Wyvern Friday 29th to Saturday 30th, 7.30pm & 2pm on 30th Musical Magic presented by K School of Music. 7.50. Wyvern

Tours & talks

We have a number of properties throughout the Swindon area, providing accommodation for a comfortable yet independent retirement.

Please call us for further details on 01672 515622

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

Wednesday 13 November, 7.30pm Swindon Society. Brian Bridgeman talks about Holy Rood: Old Parish Church of Swindon with slides by Dennis Bird. Members: 50p, visitors £1.50. Broad Green Centre, Salisbury Street Saturday 16th, 2.15pm Tour of the National Monument Record Centre. An introduction to the work of the NMRC. Free

Comedy Monday 4th, 7.30pm Peter Kay. Multi award winning star of the Channel 4 hit series, Phoenix Nights. £15. Wyvern

Wrestling Monday 11th, 7.30pm All Star American Wrestling Spectacular. £10. Wyvern

Wt's

Childrens activities/ Family events Saturday 26 Oct to Sunday 3 Nov Hobbits and Hobgoblins. Find the naughty hobbits and hobgoblins hidden around Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. 50p Saturday 26 Oct to Sunday 3 Nov Mouse in the House. Follow a trail through the rooms at Lydiard House and help the servants by finding the little mice before they eat all the furnishings. £1.25 Monday 28 Oct to Sunday 3 Nov Calling all Novice Witches and Wizards. A mischievous enchantment has been cast on the trains in the museum, we need your help. Normal admission charges. STEAM Saturdays 2nd, 16th & 30th Meet the railway workers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers to find out about life 'i nside' the Swindon Works. Normal admission charges. STEAM Sunday 10th, 3pm Remembrance Service. Remember the Swindon railway workers who lost their lives fighting for their country with a special commemorative service, led by Rev Tony Attwood. Free. STEAM. Friday 15th to Sunday 17th, then every Friday, Saturday & Sunday until 15 December, 5pm to 8pm (last entry 7pm) The Enchanted Wood. As the spectacular autumn leaves fall the trees come to life once more in a kaleidoscope of colour - a unique and breathtaking spectacle. Adults £5. concs£4, children El, familyEl 1. Westonbirt Arboretum, on A433 Tetbury to Bath Road. Tel: 01666 880147 Saturday 16th, 1 pm & 3.30pm Mr Men & Little Miss Holiday at the Seaside. New show with plenty of fun filled audience participation. £6.50. Wyvern Saturday 16th Lego Trains. A large layout will feature steam and diesel locomotives, with running loops through scenery, bridges and stations constructed entirely from Lego Normal admission charges. STEAM Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th, 10am to 5pm MODRAIL2002 - West Swindon's annual model railway exhibition with full trade support. Adults £3.50. children £ 1.50, senior citizens £2.50. family ticket (2 & 2) £9. Greendown School, Grange Park Sunday 24th, 10am to 12noon Rags, Riches and Real Estate. A gentle 4 mile stroll around Lydiard Park looking at its early beginnings to its glory years in the 18th Century. Free, but book in advance on 771419. Meet Lydiard Park Visitor Centre.

Co in Noverrrber

Exhibitions

Dance

STEAM Storehouse - Unlocking STEAM's hidden treasures Discover STEAM's hidden treasures, from uniforms to nameplates. tools to wagons. Normal admission charges. The Gallery, National Monuments Record Centre to 12 January Workers' Playtime Public parks and gardens reflected through postcards mostly dating between 1900 to 1910. Open WedFri, 11 am to 5pm Swindon Museum & Art Gallery

Friday 1st, 8pm Jazz, Jump and Jive by the Jiving Lindy Hoppers, Europe's finest authentic jazz dance company. £8. Town Hall Studios Friday 8th, 8pm Flexible Shorts. Celebrating their 10th anniversary. Bedlam Dance Company make a welcome return. £8. Town Hall Studios Friday 15th, 8pm Fuzion. Hip hop energy, contemporary dance stealth, African rhythms and ma rt ial a rt s from artistic director Kwesi Johnson. £8. Town Hall Studios Saturday 9 November Celtic Academy of Irish Dancing fundraising dance. Music by Brendan Shine plus support, display of Irish dancing, bar to midnight. Admission by ticket only. £8.50, tickets from 642368. Crosslink Centre, Ermin Street, Stratton

to 17th

David Hockney: Grimm's FairyTales This touring exhibition has been organised by the South Bank Centre and focuses on the sequence of

works created by David Hockney. Lydiard House The Grandison Book. This rare 17th Century manuscript compiled by Sir Richard St. George. Clarenceaux, King of Arms was presented to Oliver St John, Viscount Grandison c.1621. The beautifully bound manuscript contains genealogical tables based on those displayed on the Triptych in St Mary's Church, Lydiard Park, together with vivid illustrations. Normal admission charges Wyvern Theatre, Harlequin Bar to Saturday 23rd Dreamscape Elmar Rubio represents surrealism and fine illustration.

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on 23 No vember. Greenmeadow and Haydon Wick WI next meet on Monday 11 November, 7.30pm in the Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue when John Hankin will talk about 'Wiltshire Wildlife'. Tootleabrook WI meets monthly at Toothill Community Centre. On Wednesday 20 November, 7.30pm, Barry Greenaway will talk about 'Love Tokens and Engraved Coins'. All welcome, for more information call Jean Brock on 539456. Embroiderers' Guild, Swindon and North Wilts branch holds monthly meetings at Churchfields School, Salcombe Grove. On Monday 4 November, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, Anthea Godfrey talks on 'Buttons in Embroidery'. For details call Lynette Hemming on 537481. Gold Lion Quitters meet monthly in the Design & Technology Room, Kingsdown School. On Wednesday 13 November, 6.45pm - 9.45pm the theme will be 'A Christmas Decoration'. For details call Glenys Thomas on 532353.

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20 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Uncovering history locally A teachers support assistant at Salt Way School is using her fascination with local history to put together tailor made projects for primary schools. Completely off her own back and without any external funding, Frances Bevan from Middleleaze has undertaken research and written programmes of study focused on Lydiard Tregoze and Lydiard Millicent. Her work fits in with the national curriculum topic areas: What was it like to live here in the past?' and How did life change in our locality in Victorian times?

Over the last two years Frances has poured through the archives of Lydiard House and the Bolingbroke estate, visited the National Monument Record Centre for clues, trawled through the Local Studies Archive at Swindon reference library and travelled to Trowbridge to study documents held at the Wiltshire and Swindon Record Office. The result is a collection of maps, photocopies of census returns and trade directories, birth, marriage and death certificates, newspaper cuttings, ephemera and photographs, linked to information booklets, all ready for a teacher to develop lessons for their local history project for the term. She includes references to the Lydiards in the Domesday Book of 1086 and the Agricultural Riots of

is so much material available. It's fascinating when it's arranged to stimulate a child's imagination and you see them getting deeper and deeper into a topic." Salt Way headteacher Sue Butcher, a history specialist herself, said she was bowled over by Frances' work. "This is an absolutely wonderful resource which we must find a way of using. "The material is so local and relevant to what children learn about the locality they live in. History Mrs Butcher and Frances Bevan comes alive for them when they looking through her research work know the person they are research1830. Also covered is the growth of ing could have lived or worked on Swindon from the early days of a nearby farm or walked across the Great Western Railway in the fields you can actually see to work 1840s right up to the decision to at Lydiard House." However Mrs Butcher pointed build West Swindon. The work books ask pupils to out that teachers have to prepare discover all they can from the re- lesson plans up to a year in adsources Frances has prepared

vance but she would see how

whilst imagining themselves as a character from the past: a dairy maid on a farm or a worker at Lydiard House. She has also included ideas for art and craft, creative writing, mapping and IT activities. "I've always loved local history and what started out as a fairly small scale project to satisfy my own interest just started to grow," said Frances. "When you look there

Frances' work can be built into the school's curriculum. Frances is now working on a second project with a focus on the Tregoze School area. She is also seeking funding so that she can spend more time on research and take on projects for other primary schools. To make contact, telephone The Link or mail: francesbevan @hotmail.com

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This %%^ GREENDOWN Building on success In the last This is Greendown, published in The Link a year ago, new headteacher Steve O'Sullivan outlined his aim to make the school a centre of excellence se rving children and parents in West Swindon. Here he comments on this first year and the prospects for the future. The last year has been enjoyable, eventful and very exciting, both for what we have achieved and the groundwork unde rt aken for the future. One of the most satisfying parts of my work is to celebrate the many and varied achievements of so many pupils throughout the year. Greendown pupils from year 7 to 11 have a great deal to be proud of. This summer's GCSE examinations results were very pleasing and I would like to offer my congratulations to all our students who did so well. They are a credit to both their parents and their teachers. Hundreds of students in younger years received certificates, prizes and were awarded personal achievements for their efforts. Well done to all concerned. We face an exciting future. The plans for our new building are complete and construction work is to begin in January 2003. New classrooms, a large hall and offices are planned as well as internal rebuilding.

Headteacher Steve O'Sullivan with deputies Clive Zimmerman and Erica Holley Our application to become a specialist Business and Enterprise College will be submitted later in the year and Mrs Evelyn Wheeler gives more detail elsewhere in this newsletter. The increased funding specialist status brings will enhance the teaching and learning at Greendown and will strengthen our already close links with partner primary schools in West Swindon. Greendown is acknowledged to be a centre of teacher training excellence.

We have worked closely with the University of Bath and other local universities for a number of years to offer opportunities for post-graduate students to work in our classrooms. These teachers of the future gain a great deal from working with our highly skilled teachers. In return, we. have access to the most up-to-date thinking and research in education. Some of the best students have returned to work here as newly qualified teachers. We look forward to an energetic year, including a range of school visits both home and abroad; work experience for year 11; a business enterprise day organised by year 10; visits to local primary schools by year 7 pupils; a new school musical; a healthy living roadshow; new projects for gifted and talented pupils; sporting tournaments; charity events and a whole school `stop the clock' day where pupils get the chance to try some different activities. Greendown is always an interesting place to be.

ÂŁ3 million expansion to provide opportunities for even better education

There are two main reasons to celebrate this year's GCSE results:

Last year Greendown celebrated its fi fteenth year since the first intake arrived in September 1986, followed by an official opening by Princess Anne the following March. Originally planned as a 850 place school, Greendown has grown through several phases of ^Ne building to the + ^ ^^ "'' build present roll of area .. . 1,300. Now another phase of building is about to begin as a re result of a ÂŁ3 million commitment by Swindon Borough Council to provide a further 150 places for West Swindon children. Planning permission has been sought and building work should commence later in the year. Internal reorganisation of laboratory space has already taken place and the new facilities will provide nine more classrooms and a large hall. The building work also gives us the opportunity to rationalise many of the layout and circulation problems created by earlier phases of growth. All being well the new facilities will be ready for September 2003.

1. With 54 per cent of pupils gaining five or more A* to C grades, this represents our second best results since the school opened; 2. With girls consistently doing better than boys at GCSE in England and the gap widening in some subjects, boys at Greendown have gone against the trend by delivering better results than girls. Chair of Governors Mr Andrew Basson said, "this success comes about because of the hard work by students, high quality teaching, backed by a high level of parental support." Head of year 11 Mrs Evelyn Wheeler said she was particularly pleased that boys are matching the impressive success rate of the girls. "We have worked hard to overcome the 'lad culture' that hinders many boys nationally. The support of teachers and parents is particularly important; sometimes this includes giving firm, clear direction. We are not a school that shirks responsibilities." Head of the Pastoral Team Mr Gary Pearson said that exam preparation was important. "Several departments held after-school 'clinics' for pupils who needed to revise or be helped with exam techniques. Students showed a high level of commitment and parental support gave them encouragement to aspire for better performance. Our hard work over the years with boys seems to have paid off. Mind you, I think everyone works hard at this school." Our particular congratulations go to Owen Allenden, John Blake, Claire Dent, Carl Fernandes, Zoe Franks, Leanne Hughes, Katherine Knox, Christopher Martin, Samantha Michael and Lindsey Sloggett. They all gained seven or more A/A* passes. Well clone to them.

GCSE's - nearly the best ever

This is Greendown â€˘ 2

Leading the field in primary school liaison In September this year the Secreta ry of State for Education Estelle Morris stated she wanted to see closer liaison between seconda ry schools and feeder prima ry schools in order that there is a smoother transition between phases and less disruption in educational progress. Greendown has always highly valued its partnership with West Swindon primary schools as This is Greendown has reported over the years. In September over 270 children joined us from 15 primary schools. Their wide backgrounds from different schools is something we value and celebrate whilst being a challenge in building a sound foundation for their future learning. "Good links have long been established between Greendown and West Swindon primary schools and my job is to develop them" said Mrs Proctor. "As an experienced primary-trained teacher, I am in an exciting position to build bridges between schools which enables the sharing of good practice across the phases of education. This means I can teach primary classes to give year 6 teachers the time to visit Greendown and observe teaching methods and also coordinate visits by our teachers to the primaries. "Meetings between year 7 tutors and year 6 teachers for exchanges of information will take place during the year so they can plan teaching 'transition units' together. These will be based on what has been taught and learned in year 6, as

Mrs Helen Swanson from Tregoze School spent a day observing class work at Greendown. She is pictured with children who moved from her school in September, from left, Kayleigh Dunsby, Lucy Harris, Sam Feeney and Bradley Watts

There is a close working relationship with prima ry school staff and children have been involved in exciting drama, science and PE projects. Now we have gone one stage further. Earlier this year we appointed a primary school teacher Mrs Angela Proctor to our staff to develop our links with partner primary schools, a good six months before the Minister announced she wanted this kind of initiative to take place.

Mrs Proctor working with children at Shaw Ridge primary, from left, Jamie Kavara, Rebecca Hanmore, Elena Amoroso, Andrew Bradley well as what needs to be taught and learnt in year 7. Some of this is set out in the National Curriculum but we want to give it a West Swindon flavour." Mrs Proctor said that getting to know children is very important. "I really do enjoy teaching year 6 children; it gives me the chance to get to know the pupils who may be coming to Greendown. "I am currently tracking a group of pupils, who have started at Greendown, to find out how they have settled in and what they have learned. This information will help in my work for the coming year because I will have more sense of what pupils need in their transition."

Induction days, an important way for easing the move to big school It's always good to see keen, smiling faces in school and in July 270 pupils from year 6 came to Greendown for their three days of induction. They met pupils from schools across West Swindon, their head of year Miss Sophie Hesten, and also their tutors. Year 10 peer educators supported all year 6 classes, working with tutor groups for all three days. All the pupils had work to do. They had lessons in all the subjects they would study in year 7 and they started their 'Learning Passport.' This is a new feature of induction days for Greendown. All subject tutors decided what ideas or skills they would like 11 to 12 year olds to be able to demonstrate. Once the pupils acquired the skill for each subject, their passports were stamped to show that they were forming a firm foundation for success. The ten best passports received a prize

from the headteacher. We know that year 7 settle quicker when they know and trust older pupils and another innovation this year has been the appointment of peer mentors from year 10. These senior pupils act as guides for younger children throughout the year and support those youngsters who need that extra hit of assistance. They have been specially selected and trained to do their valuable work. They will help to keep the smiles on pupils' faces as well as supporting them on the road to achievement. This is another example of Greendown's commitment to supporting pupils. Success is our aim and, with everyone pulling together, we will get there.

^ 1 2 Above, year 6 children working in one of our computer suites during the induction days Left, with their Passports to Greendown, year 7 newcomers, from left, Scott Alder, Charlene Coomer, Lauren Gibbons and Bradley Farrell

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WINTER 2002

PILOT ISSUE

BRINGING NEW VILLAGES TO LIFE

COULD SWINDON'S NEWVItIAGES BE HOME TO YOUR DREAMS? To create balance and harmony much open space is planned. From parklands, to play areas

Welcome to Priory Vale News, the informal voice of the new development to the north west of Swindon. Priory Vale is the third and final stage of the northern expansion project undertaken by the North Swindon Development Company and promises to be a truly unique development of new homes. Through this quarterly publication we hope to bring you regular updates on the progress of the development and news of the fledgling community as it grows over the next twelve years. We hope that you, the readers, will give us your views and allow us the chance to respond to any questions you may have. Details of the publishers are on the back page, we will reply to every letter received.

Please give us your feedback at www.prioryvale.com

and squares the arrangement of the development will have much to offer residents and their visitors. Roads throughout Priory Vale are designed to slow traffic, allowing you to take

Priory Vale is one of the country's first developments to fully take on board PPG3, the government's legislation regarding new housing developments. It is being developed by a consortium of builders which together with planners, architects, local council and environmentalists is creating new villages for the future. For this reason, it will probably be quite unlike any other developments you may have visited. The planning of the development emphasises the efficient use of land and an open attempt to make future residents less reliant on cars. This environmentally friendly approach influences the actual layout of the development and you will find that homes are designed to blend in with surroundings.

The guidelines require that developers build more than the normal number of homes and the only way they can achieve this is by defining areas in which homes are built closer together, and higher. This doesn't mean tower blocks, but there will be more apartments, three and four storey town houses and terraced homes - all of which is good news in terms of extra floor space and generous living areas. Another plus to this arrangement is increased home security - a natural result of living closer together.

advantage of the views which will include village style street arrangements, cyclepaths and public open space used as parks or nature trails. So, what are you waiting for? Come along and judge Priory Vale for yourself, we think you may be pleasantly surprised.

THIS MONTHS ISSUE: VILLAGE CENTRE • PRIORY VALE CHALLENGE • FINDING YOUR WAYAIRST RESIDENTS • ORBITAL SHOPPING PARK

In the beginning

AROUND A S QIJARE traditional village square and Perhaps proof perfect that some will include a market place of the best is yet to come? reminiscent of those of market You can follow progress and towns, a number of shops and updates to plans for the village perhaps best of all, given the centre on Priory Vale's website: appropriate weather, a selection www.prioryvale.com of pavement cafes.

By David Thompson The first land deal that made Swindon's northern expansion project possible dates back to 1982 when Crest Nicholson acquired Abbey Farm from the Hitch family. Shortly afterwards an option on the Francis family land became available and the arduous process of obtaining planning permission began in earnest. After years of intense negotiation, and precisely ten years later, planning permission for 10,000 new homes was granted in 1992. Just before the Section 106 Agreement was finally settled with the Local Authority, we (Crest Nicholson) spent a solid four days working at our solicitor's office in London, each day's work would have been completed at around 3am having grabbed a late night pizza or Mac Donald's. We were then back at the office at 7.30am to start the new "battle" - all of which was done by fax and phone - no such thing as email in those days. The Section 106 Agreement basically ties up the planning gain package. In this particular case it was finally rubber stamped as being, "One of the most generous planning gain packages ever seen by the Department of the Environment at that time". Work commenced in 1993 and the former Francis land, just off Lady Lane was the first area to be developed. The family farmhouse, which is now the Manor Farm Inn, was the scene of many a discussion with Godfrey Francis - usually sitting in his kitchen drinking cups of tea.

Continued opposite...

With plans still under wraps, the village centre immediately north of junction 7 remains the topic of much speculation and anticipation. We were fortunate enough to obtain from the developer a few initial sketches and look forward to hearing more about this feature of the development. We do know that the village centre will be seen as the heart of the new community. Located next to the education campus with its extensive sports facilities, it will resemble a

FIELDS OF FLOWERS Every year and for all too short a time, Priory Vale enjoys a visit from Orchis Morio, the green winged orchid. Six hectares of undisturbed meadow land burst into a spectacular show of nature's beauty and during the early part of spring an entire carpet of pale purple and pink orchids covers the ancient hay meadow - a sight not easily forgotten. Known for its unusual shapes and beautiful colours, the orchid is regarded as being quite common in the Swindon area, but some varieties are in fact threatened. Priory Vale's Hayden Meadow has been designated a "site of special scientific interest" and the orchids here are protected. The symbol chosen to represent this development pays tribute to this remarkable flower and its annual visit.

BRINGING NEW VILLAGES TO LIFE

THE PRIORY VALE

C14 A I I F NJGr_F

I seem to recall this being one of the wettest autumns for years and, as a result, we made very slow progress on the roads and provision of sewers - both of which, were more like rivers for much of the ti me, the water coming straight down Lady Lane and into the development area. From a slow start, we built and sold 81 units in 1994, building up to a massive 800 units in 1997, quite an impressive increase within the space of four years. At the peak we had twelve of the country's leading housebuilders building, it's hardly surprising that it took only seven years to build over 2,700 houses in the development known as Abbey Meads.

c-arcs. All years five and six Swindon primary school children were recently invited to put their design skills to the test. They were challenged to create their own "Bridge of Dreams" in a competition devised by local teacher Linda . Knight (left). The winning entrant was given the opportunity of opening Priory Bridge, a day of VIP treatment, and a camera with which to photograph the event. People involved in the design and construction of the Priory Bridge were asked to judge the competition and the final panel comprised John Prothero of Edmund Nuttall Limited, John Wallace of Halcrow Group, Jeff Davis of Trench Farrow and Partners and Lorraine Palmer of Bloor Homes. As they were looking for the most i maginative entry, the task was not a simple one.

WWW.PRIORYVALE.COM

A clear winner finally emerged and top prize went to James, a year five pupil at a local primary school. The nine runners-up were each given a book voucher and a framed certificate of achievement. Nearly a thousand entries were received and the North Swindon Development Company presented a cheque for ÂŁ2000 to the China Challenge, the charity fund raising body that Linda represents. The funds will benefit

Above: The winning entry

both the GWR Community Trust ( which supports many local charities) and the Evolution Appeal which has been set up to raise funds for much needed equipment at local hospitals.

Some smaller developments followed and we have now moved onto the final stage which entails building nearly 6,000 new homes. The planning gain cost of Priory Vale has substantially increased over the years and the cost of developing such a scheme is beyond the capability of one developer, plus of course not all the land was in one ownership. As a result, the North Swindon Development Company was formed acting as an enabler in respect of all the works. The NSDC is owned and run jointly by George Wimpey, Westbury Homes Holdings, Bloor, Bryant Homes, Crest Nicholson and Walmart. I truly believe that visitors to Priory Vale will notice a huge change from earlier developments and the Crest Nicholson development is typical of what you can expect.

David Thompson of Crest Strategic Projects is a director of the North Swindon Development Company.

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BL00RHOMES Saunder's Brook Junction 7/8 No rt hern Orbital Road

Redhouse SN25 Telephone: 01793 702255

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Opening hours: Seven days a week 10:00am - 5:15pm www.buildingforthefuture.co.uk

Bryant Homes The Fieldings Junction 9 Northern Orbital Road Oakhurst SN25

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Telephone: 01793 728566 Opening hours: Seven days a week 9:30am - 5:00pm www.bryant.co.uk

Crest NICHOLSON

Braydon Mead

Junction 7 Northern Orbital Road Redhouse SN25 4AQ

Telephone: 0808 100 4009 Opening hours: Seven days a week 10:00am - 5:00pm www.braydonmead.com

BRINGING NEW VILLAGES TO LIFE

Westburyk* Bishop's Court and Cardinal's Gate Junction 8 Northern Orbital Road Oakhurst SN25 4DF Telephone: 01793 726306 Opening hours: Seven days a week 11:00am - 5:00pm www.westbury-homes.co . uk

ii' George Wimpley Clifford Mead Junction 8 Northern Orbital Road Oakhurst SN25 4YZ

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Telephone: 01793 726577 Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat 10:00am - 5:30pm Thurs 1:00pm - 5:30pm Sun 11:00am - 5:30pm www.wimpey.co.uk

Northern Orbital Road Junction

Site of special scentific interest

Tadpole Brook Secondary School " - - - - Footpath (Not Adopted)

The Meadows Junction 9 Northern Orbital Road Oakhurst SN25

Priory Vale Visitor Centre

Local Open Space

Primary School

Bridleway

Telephone: 01793 728255

Public right of way

Marketing Suite

Major Open Space

Opening hours: Seven days a week 10:00am - 5:00pm www.wimpey.co.uk

OBus Stops

$ Existing Trees

WWW.PRIORYVALE.COM

Play Area

Footpath/Cycleway

irs all

aname Although Priory Vale is regarded as an urban village development, it will be made up of a series of villages named after local places or fields. These

GETTING AROUND .

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LIKE MOST OF THE FEATURES OF PRIORY VALE, THE PUBLIC TRANSPORT CORRIDOR IS INNOVATIVE AND THE PLANNING VERY DETAILED.

village names will all be integrated into the addresses of

On the bus

new homes in the area.

Perhaps you've spotted it around town? Maybe you've taken a trip in it? An entire Thamesdown Transport bus was recently spray painted in the Priory Vale blue, and then hand painted with the colourful logos. The bus is operational and

One such village, already well known locally, is Taw Hill in the southern section and just off junction 10 of the Northern Orbital Road. This village is nearing completion and already has a village centre, church and school. Oakhurst, in the north

can be seen in and

western area of Priory Vale

around Swindon.

was named after the farmhouse that was home to the original landowners. Their property, Haydon End Farm, took the name of the historical field name of the area and in turn gave its name to the village of Haydon End which takes up most of the southern part of Priory Vale.

The

North Swindon Development Company has made ÂŁ1-million available towards the public transport system that serves Priory Vale. Within the next six months, buses are expected to run

Redhouse is also named after

regularly and on completion of the development, there will be

the historical fields of Priory

a bus route within easy

' ' Vale dating back to the early 1700's.

STOP PRESS Priory Vale joined the "Best New Village" list as judged by the property magazine Your New Home in its Best Developments Awards of 2002. Only the three best developments across the country won through in each category. According to Managing Director, David Rossiter, "As new home publishers who for over five years have promoted the positive benefits of new homes and their advantages to the house buyer, community and environment, we are delighted to be able to reward what in our opinion is best achievement within the industry over the last year."

ice;

One novel feature of this set up is the modern passenger information system. Bus stops will have electronic type message boards, similar to those in London's tube stations.

walking distance residential areas.

all

Other small differences will be apparent to commuters, for example buses have priority access onto loop roads, known as "All Vehicle Routes" and signals will

give priority to public transport over private motor vehicles. Finally, one of the most interesting features is that short sections of road will become bus only links. These will provide attractive, direct bus routes to certain locations. The centre spread of this newsletter has been devoted to a plan of the

development. On this one can clearly see the planned bus routes, links and stops, not to mention the cycle routes, bridleways and footpaths!

First residents move in It's official. Chris and Tracy Barnes will go down in history as the earliest occupants of Priory Vale. The couple and their two children took up residence in a three-storey in the heart of Saunder's Brook, a development by Bloor Homes. Another early resident was Bloor sales manager, Lorraine Palmer who joined a handful of families that make up this new community. It's hard to imagine that in only 12 years the development will be home to nearly 6,000 families. Right: Prio ry Vale's first residents.

BRINGING NEW VILLAGES TO LIFE

THE

PRIORYVAILE

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SOME HANDY NUMBERS Always Essentia l Nursery Schools Leapfrog Day Nurseries, St Andrew's Ridge 01793 528111 . Police - Swindon and Westlea Jigsaw Group, Abbey Meads 01793 487562 Fire - Westlea 01793 401200 r^^ - Swindon 0845 9200 800 Y^i Pet Care Thames Water - emergencies Abbey Meads Veterina ry Surge ry, Abbey Meads 0845 7708090 Southern Electricity - emergencies Paws Mobile Dog Grooming 0800 111999 Transco - emergencies RSPCA 01793 463000 Swindon Borough Council 0800 555111 Crimestoppers Pharmacies 01793 464196 Refuse Collection - SBC Lloyds Chemist, Abbey Meads 0800 807060 Environment Agency Safeway, Haydon Wick (7pm) Childcare Places of Worship 01793 541786 Children's Information Service The Church of Christ the Servant, Abbey Meads St John's Church, Haydon Wick Doctors Emmanuel United Reformed Church 01793 709111 Abbey Meads Medical Practice Taw Hill Worship Centre 01793 709500 Taw Hill Medical Practice Dentists Swindon Health Centre

01793 428580

Florists The Floral Studio

01793 702123

Garden Supplies and Services Grange Farm Nurseries and Garden Centre Horticare garden maintenance Garden Doctors, landscaping & maintenance

01793 721221 01793 722359 01793 526571

Hairdressers Look Fantastic, Abbey Meads Village Centre The Cutting Room, St Andrew's Ridge

01793 704800 01793 341214

Hospitals Princess Margaret Hospital The Great Western Hospital Victoria Hospital

0 01793 536231 01793 604020 01793 481182

Leisure

Political Representation Michael Wills MP Hayden Wick Parish Council Blunsdon Parish Council Swindon Borough Council - Abbey Meads Ward: Dr Charles Lister (Con) Peter Stoddart (Con) Justin Tomlinson (Con)

01793 726919 01793 702233

01793 728728 01793 731829 08705 555999 01793 704165 01793 705322 01793 706558 01793 634258 01793 705484 01793 70135 01793 481016 01793 722446 01793 705617 01793 490182 01793 879127 01793 822928

Post Offices Safeways, Haydon Wick One Stop, Abbey Meads Village Centre

0845 7223344 01793 704182

Public Houses The Abbey Mead, Abbey Meads Fox and Hounds, Haydon Wick Manor Farm, Haydon Wick The Jovial Monk, St Andrew's Ridge

01793 726208 01793 724749 01793 705222 01793 728636

q TV Connections

Link Centre, Westlea

01793 445566

Aerial and television services

01793 702601

Oasis Leisure Centre

01793 445401

Advanced Aerial & Satellite Services

01793 705945

County Ground

01793 511033

Health Hydro

01793 465630

Croft Sports Centre

01793 526622

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^ Theatre 01793 524481

Wyvern Theatre Transport

Haydon Centre, Haydon Wick

01793 706666

The Rec

01793 762602

Thamesdown Transport

Dorcan Centre

01793 533763

Stagecoach

Highworth Recreation Centre

01793 762602

Rail Inquiries

01793 428428 01793 522243 0845 748 4950

General disclaimer: The above list represents telephone numbers of businesses and se rvice providers that maybe useful to anyone living no rth of Swindon. Through the preparation of this list we are in no way endorsing or suggesting the use of any facilities, services or products.

For your information p

WWW.PRIORYVALE.COM

Located at junction 8 of the Northern Orbital Road is the Priory Vale Visitor Centre. Here you will be able to find the answers to any questions you may have regarding the development,

The friendly team will be able to direct you to any of the developers currently on site and literature relating to the development will be on display, and yours for the taking.

So make the Visitor Centre your first port of call, we make a great cup of coffee! Priory Vale also has its own website- www.prioryvale.com or feel free to telephone us on 0800 072 5550 fora brochure.

WILDLIFE WINNERS Priory Vale is in an area of great natural beauty and is home to many protected species. For this reason, during the planning phase, the North Swindon Development Company consulted various experts for advice and guidance. One of the main causes for concern was the continued protection of the Great Crested Newt. These tiny creatures have ponds all over the development area. Thanks to early planning, the development has been arranged around these ponds and

developers will literally build around them! Whenever this The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, the county's biggest nature conservation charity, is also assisting Priory Vale in involving homeowners in this conservation effort by explaining the wildlife value of the planned urban village and by giving tips and advice on sustainable gardening.

SpeoaW'dalfe.,d

proved to be impossible, new ponds and refuges were prepared by wildlife experts. Other attempts which will enable life to continue as normal include the introduction of wildlife corridors which stretch right across the development and into the countryside beyond. Affording animals some protection against the dangers of roads is specially designed badger and newt fencing which you will see

Above: Mapping out plans and tips for new Priory Vale residents

THE ORBITAL SHOPPING PARK. .Y BAKE) BI: AT A^^ ....

wr y ats

....

. _

along some routes. Tunnels and bridge ledges have also been prepared offering safe passage to local wildlife. Information leaflets covering measures in place to protect wildlife at the development and

"green"

gardening

techniques, have been published and are available as a pack given to new

homeowners. The publications can also be viewed at www.prioryvale.com

CALLING ALL SHOPPERS... This centre gives new meaning to the cliche 'shop

Just a short walk puts you in

until you drop'. Boasting one of the largest Asda Wal-Mart shops in the country, complete with huge George clothing section, optician, photoshop, and restaurant, there is something on offer for everyone.

thousands of square feet of

At last year's preview event ex-Mayor of Swindon, David Cox and his partner Jenny Dean joined other guests keen to see the new Asda Wal-Mart store.

yet another shopping Mecca,

retail space will be occupied for Christmas by the likes of Homebase, Comet, Next and the book retailers, Borders. JJB Sports is also opening a store and plans to top up its offering with a private health and leisure club. Asda Wal-Mart is a 24 hour store opening at 8:00am on Monday and closing at 10;00pm on Saturday. On Sundays it is open between 11:00am and 5:00pm. Incidentally, the store is also a massive local employer with its last staff count in excess of 400 employed on either a full or part time basis.

1 !I

F:_(ti

Asda W!-Matt t1 I

BEGINNING IN NOVEMBER AND STRETCHING WELL INTO NEXT YEAR, LOOK OUT FOR BILLBOARDS AND A PAINTED BUS AROUND TOWN! CREATED BY THE KARTOON KINGS, SIMON GRENNAN & CHRISTOPHER SPERANDIO, WHO HAVE BEEN RESIDENT ARTISTS AT ASDA WALMART FOR A YEAR, THE BOARDS AND BUS CARRY A SERIES OF DYNAMIC PORTRAITS OF LOCAL PEOPLE, REVEALING ASPECTS OF SWINDON. SOME MIGHT BE FAMILIAR, SOME LESS SO. THE SERIES OF BILLBOARDS WILL ALSO BE ON DISPLAY MONTH BY MONTH AT THE ASDA WAL-MART SUPERSTORE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, LOG ON TO: WWW. SWINDONARTSCAPE.CO.UK/ASDA/

This is Greendown • 3

Aiming for business and enterprise status Greendown is rising to the government's cha ll enge for more schools in England and Wales to achieve 'specialist school status.' In March 2003 we will deliver our first bid to the DfES to become a Business and Enterprise College. When successful we will immediately invest an additional £150,000 in a ' major capital project to enhance the education on offer at the school. A further £,450,000 will be available over the follow>.1 ing four and a half years. Our hid has to show ^'{ how the curriculum at Greendown will be Harry Hambidge broadened and divermodels the signed sified to reflect an England shirt now emphasis on enterowned by Mark King prise and business

practice which pays attention to the wider world of work. The bid will also re fl ect stronger links with partner primary schools, at least one other secondary school and further eduction colleges. But first, £50,000 has to be raised by March. This will come through business support and also fundraising within the school. "I would be prepared to do anything if it was legal and successful.- said Mrs Evelyn Wheeler, who is responsible for assembling the hid. "Initiatives to raise money, borrow equipment or utilise people's talents are all part of our business curriculum." A signed England shirt has already been raffled and a 500 Club is soon to be launched, with up to £250 a month in prize money. A Christmas raffle has opened and tickets at 50p are available from school reception. "We're in a race against time to get that £50,000," points out Mrs. Wheeler. "I would welcome any donations of equipment, raffle

A year of achievement We have some very talented pupils at Greendown, and we recognise that some pupils have talents beyond lessons and academic study. We like to know what pupils do outside school or what other kinds of achievement they have. Given the bad publicity that young people often attract, we like to offer a different view of young people striving for the best. Here are a few who have achieved a high level of success this year:

° AMP

• James Pembridge, right, gained 207 personal achievements in his first year at Greendown. That means that he worked consistently well in every subject. • Daniel Heard can now fly a glider. That's official because he got his licence at the young age of 16. • Christopher Martin became an Associate Member of the Royal Trinity College of Music. This is a professional diploma normally awarded to much older people and it means that Chris can really blow his own trumpet!

Trips abroad and contact with people from other countries and cultures has always been an important part of Greendown's curriculum. Students learn so much and quickly when they are in actual contact with speakers of a foreign language — especially if they have to do something like order food. In May 2002, thirty students and six staff left Greendown in high spirits to travel to Narbonne Plage in the South of France for an activity break. Once at the campsite, they took part in windsurfing, sailing, raft building and banana boating. In the early evening, they played rounders, volleyball and cricket. Speaking French was important as well and the youngsters visited the local market several times to practice their shopping techniques.

• Michael Fisher was selected to represent England in sailing. Perhaps one day Michael will sail round the world singlehanded.

• Greendown's very own mermaid, Laura Worley swam for Scotland.

Brass

Learning boosted by European visits

• Simone Mistry-Palmer won a scholarship to a stage school in London. She also won the Swindon Young Musician Award this year. Watch out for her on Top of the Pops in the future.

• Yousif Abu-Saada played ice hockey for England but he's very cool about his achievement.

Euphonium success for Chris Martin with former head of music Mrs Amanda Hodder and his teacher John Winterflood of Swindon School of

prizes and money - as well as ideas for fundraising." She can be contacted on 874224 or by email: ewheeler@greendown.swindon.sch.uk Enterprise at work. Year 10 students took part in a Business and Enterprise Day on 15 October to design and market a training shoe. One of the teams, Chanel Dziuban, Sean Haines, Kelie Baden, Chrissy Munro

• Matthew Bennett had a football trial for England schools. We may have to pay to watch him play soon. • Daniel Thomas played rugby for Wales under 16 team. Perhaps the senior team could do with Dan's talent!

Earlier in the year, 36 pupils and staff from Greendown visited Stubai in Austria. Their purpose: skiing. They had instruction for the first couple of days, but once their confidence had grown and their proficiency had developed, they were allowed to ski without their instructors, although they were supported by staff. The annual ski trip has become a very popular part of Greendown's year. When they return, most students say that it is their favourite sport.

t^ The important contribution of parents New parent governor Charles King describes his role as a school governor. Being a parent governor at Greendown is something in which I take great pride. So far, I have also enjoyed the post. As a parent I feel very strongly not only about my child's education but also the education of all children in our local schools. I believe they are entitled to receive the best possible instruction from a dedicated teaching staff within an effectively managed school. I work alongside some ve ry knowledgeable parents and other Governors, and I feel the decisions we reach create the positive foundation for the way Greendown School educates our children for the future. Working with a strong team of governors and a head-

This is Greendown â€˘ 4

Developing our champions It was a great evening for over 250 pupils, parents and guests. Everyone at Swindon Town's Winners' Bar enjoyed the fi rst Greendown School Sports Achievement Evening to celebrate success in sport. Our main guest and awards presenter was England netball international Ama Agbeze, who gave us an insight into the training and commitment needed to be a successful athlete. She also talked of the disappointments along the way to the top, having just been told she had not been picked for the Commonwealth Games.

England schools football trialist Matthew Bennett and England ice hockey international Yousif Abu-Saada

Ama Agbeze with the Greendown year 9 netball team national finalists, from left, Emily Dickens, Emma Roberts, Kaylie Hill, Laura Worley, Laura Spinks, Sam Dell, Chrissie Munro, coach Gail Tipper

teacher with

clear vision is the exciting pa rt of being a parent governor. In my small way I hope the contributions made during my tenure as a governor at Greendown will be looked upon as pieces of a great puzzle, which when fitted together, will make a clear and lovely picture. Patience, dedication and perseverance are the main ingredients of a sound governor. You might not win all the arguments in a meeting but the ones you win make you even stronger and much more prepared for the challenges ahead. I am getting to know more about the challenges too, for example, understanding what is involved in building an extension to the school. What a cha ll enge to help make that a success. My wish is for parents with children already in Greendown and parents who are choosing Greendown as their secondary school of choice to say: "I am proud and glad we chose Greendown for our children's education." When I hear those words I will know my involvement as a governor has paid off.

Scottish swimmer Laura Worley

England sailor, 14 year old Michael Fisher under way

One of the special awards she presented was to our year 9 netball team who reached the National Schools' Finals in Manchester this year. That's a great achievement and the girls were all thrilled to meet an international netball player. The buffet organised by parent volunteers was incredible. There was even enough food for all the growing youngsters who were present. There were so many awards that it would be impossible to name all the winners here. However headteacher Steve O'Sullivan commented on the evening by saying, "it was wonderful to see so many of our students receiving awards for their commitment. Success in school is achieved through the three way pa rt nership between pupils, parents and staff. When we all work together, we can realise high aims and ambitions." Others shared Mr. O'Sullivan's sentiments. "This has been a great success," said one parent. "It was fantastic to see my daughter receive an award which meant so much to her. Thank you for organising such a fabulous evening." Ama with the Greendown PE department sports evening organisers, Gail Tipper, Chris Dobbs, Anna Carriero, Clive Harding, Ama Agbeze, Rob Hopkins, Polly Helps, Ashley Mclnally, Mark Ball, Sophie Hesten

Greendown Community School Grange Park Way, Grange Park West Swindon

Former London Irish player,

Tel: 01793 874224

headteacher Steve O'Sullivan

We always make visitors ve ry welcome and are pleased to give parents tours of the school. For details, please contact: Tracey Scaife

congratulates Daniel Thomas who played rugby for Wales under 16s and won a scholarship to top public school Millfield to develop his talent

r'`

'This is Greendown' is published by Greendown Community School under contract with The Link Magazine

30 The Link Magazine • November 2002

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Energetic exercise boosts books collection All ten classes at Tregoze School in Grange Park recently took part in a sponsored ten minute run around the school buildings to raise cash for books. The exercise was an important dedicated to books, which inbreak from a Books and Beyond cluded a favourite character dressing up day and a problem solving project. Throughout the term children afternoonwherechildreninmixed earned rewards for reading age groups worked together to progress and there was a week tackle problems. Year I children in Juliette Wright's class jogging for books at Tregoze

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Children wanted to clear litter The youngsters on Haydon Wick Junior Parish Council are really concerned about the amount of litter, including building debris, cluttering public places around the parish. So they're going to do something practical to tidy up their area. They're organising a junior 'litter pick' on Sunday 10 November, 2pm, concentrating on play areas and footpaths. Anyone wishing to join these enthusiastic community spirited youngsters should contact the parish council offices on 722446. Parents or an adult should accompany children taking part. Bring gloves for protection.

The Link Magazine • November 2002 31

Cycling club looks for youth to benefit from lottery award boost Members of Swindon Road Cycling Club are celebrating after receiving a £4,999 grant from the 'National Lottery's Awards for All' programme.

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Seniors and juniors outside one of the cycling club's satellite centres at Shaun Ridge School, from left, Adrian Evans, Kevin Thomson, Daniel Higgs, Rhys Evans, Stefan Telford, Bryan Telford

is considerable interest in the sport, but cyclists have to travel far afield to cycle tracks and velodromes. "Whilst we started as a road cycling club, many youngsters have mountain bikes, so we'll be organising trips to mountain bike tracks at Lydiard and Broad Town to get them involved." Link advertisers Swindon Cycles at Beechcroft Road supplied Giant road bikes to the club as part of the lottery grant. For club details, call Bryan Telford on 726020, Adrian Evans on 347371 or Kevin Thomson on 731493 or visit the club website at www.swindon-rc.co.uk • Children and parents who took part in the Blue Peter Bikeathon around Coate Water in May raised £6,118.62 in aid of the Leukaemia Research Fund. Local coordinator Helen Wilmer thanked all the boys and girls who took part. "They should feel really proud they are helping other children around the country suffering from this terrible disease."

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The grant will allow the group to i mplement a youth development programme and provide cycling opportunities for young people across the town. The grant covers the purchase of junior race bikes and cycling activities equipment, coaching and first aid courses. A wide variety of cycling will be catered for, including mountain biking, road racing and general cycling skills The club has several fully qualified coaches who are eager to promote cycling as an excellent way of getting fit amongst the youth of Swindon. Club spokesman Bryan Telford said, "we worked hard with Swindon Council's sports development team to write the lottery application and we're thrilled to receive the award. For a club like ours this is a large sum of money; now we can really get down to developing cycling for young people." The club, with over a hundred members, is based at the Croft Centre in Old Town but will be opening satellite training centres around the town. Bryan said there

WOOTTON BASSETT

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32 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Parading for the Lord Mayor Last month we pictured David and Patricia Reed from Ramleaze tinkering under the bonnet of their prize winning restored Morris Minor. Now they're -_ready to motor 1^ up to the capital A .` to take part in the Morris Minor Club of Great Britain's cavalcade which will form part of the 1, Lord Mayor of , ' London's parade * + on 9 November. Doris the Mor0 ^_, ris, first built in 1961, was restored to mint condition by ' s David from the chassis up and David, Patricia and Doris completed last year. r

CYCLECARE - PURTON WITH SAFETY IN MIND For the highest quality children's: • BIKES • TRIKES • SCOOTERS • GO-CARTS Cyclecare, 89 High Street, Purton SN5 4AB Tel: 07890 - 580782

Slot car fun Four Lane Blacktop is a slot racing club in the centre of Swindon run by enthusiasts with its own clubroom, a permanent 77 feet long four lane track and a large pits area. Slot racing is a development of Scalextric, using faster 1 /24 or 1 /32 scale cars and automated lap counting. Good racers can lap in about four seconds. Members race on Tuesday evenings but the track is available for practice all week. Men, women and children are welcome to join. There are always cars and controllers available to have a go or take your own car to test it out. Scalextric, Ninco and Fly cars are welcome. For details contact Rob Lees at rleesrlees@aol.com or 07785-111999.

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ON THE ROAD Volunteer driver wanted Food and Friends, the lunch club which meets at Freshbrook Community Centre on Mondays, needs a volunteer willing to drive a DialA-Ride minibus to pick up members for lunch and take them home again. The volunteer has to be over 20 and under 70 and will need to take a test in the minibus. A free lunch cooked by other volunteers is available in return for weekly commitment. To offer help, call Lorraine Webb on 871017 or Pam Pixton on 465462.

GARY WILKINSON Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying M.o.T. Repairs and Welding Free Estimates Unit 12 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon

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Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Cars • Vans • Luton Tail-Lifts

MOBILE CAR SERVICING REPAIRS ctronic tuning ,t 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 (01793) 873045 or 07867 55 350

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(Opposite St Ivel) ALL MAKES OF CAR SERVICED AND REPAIRED

34 The Link Magazine • November 2002

Planetary surPRIZES! The winners of the Design a Planet competition which ran in conjunction with the summer holiday reading game were announced at the West Swindon library at the end of September. They were Gemma Walker aged 3, Matthew Rutland, 5, and Benjamin Evans ,6.

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Presenting their prizes Jeni Carter, reading game supervisor, said, "the entries were amazing, each child had put in so much time and effort." Over 2,000 children took part in the reading game. They received a reading planet folder to create an alien planet landscape with stickers received each time they read a book and talked to a volunteer in the library. The 1,144 who read six

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booksovertheholidays received a medal, certificate and an invitation to a party with magical entertainment. Rachel Douglass, librarian reading project coordinator, said "it's been a fantastic year. The number of children taking part in the g ame has doubled since it started four years ago, showing that visits to the library during the summer have become a central part of holiday activities in Swindon."

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Domestic & commercial No job too big or small Free estimates Call anytime: 07967 907434

Difficulty getting to the library? Home Library comes to West Swindon this Autumn. Let the library service know if you would like books, tapes or videos delivered to your home by a volunteer. For details, call 463505, call into West Swindon library or mail: dosorio@swindon.gov.uk

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Why do horror stories and films remain so popular?, asks Pat Gould. Perhaps it is because we can en- films have been based on King's joy being scared, but on our own novels that you wonder how the terms. We can close up the book or movie industry would survive switch off the video whenever we without him. But the men don't have book want to. From the popularity of chil- sales all to themselves. Best selling drerisserieslikeGoosebumps,Point novelists like Patricia Cornwell, Horror and Shivers it would seem Kathy Reichs and Mo Hayderhave that all ages enjoy a scary story shown that they can produce top and the Buffy series on TV has fur- notch, spine-chilling stories too. All of these authors are stocked ther popularised vampire related in Swindon libraries as well as tales. The great horror classics of spooky videos, DVDs and story Dracula, Frankenstein and Jekyll tapes. When you've had enough of and Hyde remain popular but the stories there are non-fiction present day horror writers are books on the unexplained and supernatural to work your way rarely out of the best-seller lists. Stephen King, James Herbert through. Are you brave enough to see and Shaun Hutson continue to dominate the market and so many what your library has to offer?

CHRISTMAS FUNDRAISING Christmas Craft Fayre Commonweal School Sunday 24 November, 11am - 4pm Over 50 craft stalls, healing zone to try out holistic therapies, Father Christmas, homemade refreshments. Free entry. Arts, Crafts and Hobbies Fayre Village Hall, Station Road, Purton Sunday 24 November, 10am - 4.30pm To book an exhibition stand, take part in the kids craft classes or to offer a raffle prize call Lynda Warren on 771453

Carols at Christmas Christ Church, Swindon Friday 6 December, 7.15pm with children from Crowdys Hill, Holy Family & King William Street schools. Featuring The Christmas mouse tells the story of the birth of Jesus' Attended by Mayor of Swindon coun Stan Pajak and Bishop Michael, Bishop of Swindon. Collection in aid of NSPCC. Refreshments afterwards.

The Link Magazine • November 2002 35

Autumn Bash

Under 9s wanted

Commonweal School Friday 8 November, 8pm-1 1 pm

Shaw FC desperately seeks players to make up the numbers in their newly formed under 9s team. The team plays in the Swindon & District Mini Soccer league and trains on Wednesday, 5.30pm to 7pm on the Greendown School astro-turf. Just turn up for training or call team manager Geoff Owens on

Classic live music from 60s to present day from Locomotion Licensed bar

Tickets £8.50, to include supper, from 612727

Twin town connections Swindon Ocotal Link meets on the first Tuesday of the month, 5 November and 3 December, 7.30pm at Swindon Council offices, Euclid Street. Discover more about our twin town in Nicaragua and find out how Swindon people have helped.

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Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only.

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Mon - Fri

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Consulting hours: B y appointment Mon - Fri: 9am - 10.30am: 3.30pin - 5pm: 5.30pm - 6.30pm

Saturda'. y

12noon - 3pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE -. lI Sunda and Emergenc y° consiults b. appointment at The Dr o v e Vete rinary H osp ital - te lephone (01793) 522483

36 The Link Magazine • November 2002 Maintaining the Haven The Haven is a wildflower nursery in the heart of Swindon and on Sunday 10 November John Ball will demonstrate techniques that you can use to create a piece of haven in your own garden. Meet 10.30am at the overflow car park, Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor Estate, outside the TWIGS building. To book, call 877261.

GARDEN CENTR To advertise your garden service here, call 872531 or mail: advertising @swindonlink.com

Domestic Grounds Maintenance • Grass cutting • Hedge cutting • Selective weed control • Turfing & patios • Supply & planting of trees & shrubs Mobile: 07765 254475 Home: 01793 722264 i

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• Fencing - closeboard, panels etc. • Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle • Patio cleaning, grass cutting. gardens tidied up • Turfing and grass seeding • Ponds & pergolas

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GARDEN DOCTORS FENCING

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For free no obligation quote and sound advice Tel (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139 :

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Suppliers of turf, compost and bark mulch

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SEED GROWN LAWN TURF - COMMERCIAL QUALITY OR I SUPERIOR QUALITY a

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The Link Magazine • November 2002 37

Gardens go green in Priory Vale Housebuyers on the new Priory Vale housing development in North Swindon will be getting advice on turning their brand new plots into eco-friendly wildlife havens, thanks to a joint effort by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and the North Swindon Development Company. Trust worker Catherine Rice describes how. In developed areas, the domestic garden, large or small, can be a priceless habitat for birds, bees, butterflies and amphibians such as frogs and toads. If gardeners over a wide area adopt a truly 'green-fingered' approach to their back gardens, the benefits can be tremendous for wildlife and people." Each householder will receive a free information pack with simple advice on how to take up the green chal-

lenge. It includes tips on: • creating a butterfly border; • encouraging birds; • composting — the magic mixture that reduces house- Catherine shows of the pack in the sustainhold rubbish and nourishes able garden at the Bloor Homes development your flowerbeds at the same at Priory Vale time; • planting for wildlife; ter them in the best way possible. • building a pond - an oasis of calm Please get in touch if you would and a watery wildlife sanctuary; like to find out how to garden in a • gardening without peat — it's greener way, how to be more susunnecessary and destroys precious tainable in your lifestyle or if you wildlife habitats. simply want to know more about Alongside the gardening pack, wildlife in Swindon. Contact WiltPriory Vale residents will also re- shire Wildlife Trust on 526244, ceive a lea fl et about the natural mail: crice@wiltshirewildlife.org, history of their new neighbour- or write to Swindon Environment hood and the trees, flowers and Centre, 47B Fleet Street, Swindon, creatures they may see. This will SN1 IRE. help people to quickly get to know • Download a .pdf version of the their surroundings and to look af- pack from www.priorvvale.com

T.A.L. Con. General Builder All types of building work undertaken Brickwork Carpentry Electrical Patios/drives Extensions No job too small Tel: 01793 346332 (answerphone) Mobile: 07940267323

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A 2 Z Home Improvements All your needs in one number Kitchen/Bathroom fitting, Tiling, Plumbing, Electrics. Painting, Decorating, Carpentry and much more Tel: (01793) 33967'1 Mob i1 07778) 20 7977

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BLOOMS of Bressingham

the place to be this Christmas...

Cats cause chaos for water voles Nationally the population of Britain's most endangered mammal has dropped dramatically, mainly because of predation by mink. Wiltshire is • o -vival of the water `: r one of the last '^ vole, as mink genY strongholds in R^ - ^' /!► erally prefer the the UK for ^^^ ' , ^ countryside. ;' voles but in °' fir - ,^, `., -; Avoiding preda Swindon some , tionby cats could of the last Rw beveryimportant '?ir populations ^ in protecting the are being dey water vole from ' `a . stroyedbydo.. extinction. mestic cats. +^'i►. • x ^" Owners can cut W a t e r' F9'^"^ their pets' killy . '^9^ r= " rate by making voles have completely y' - sure their cat disappeared + wearsabelIonits from e .^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ collar, and by RushyPlattnakeeping them in ture reserve off the Wootton Bassett at night, when small mammals are Road," saidwatervoleexpertMark at their most vulnerable. Satinet. "It's a vital urban wildlife A 'Know Your Vole' campaign haven bought by Wiltshire Wild- launched by Wildlife Trusts, aims life Trust onl y two years ago. With to halt the further decline of the an ideal habitat and no mink at the species and help them recover their reserve, we are almost certain that former range. For details on how the water voles have been killed to identify water voles, contact Mark Satinet at the Wiltshire Wildoff by cats." He added that urban areas like life Trust on 01380 725670. www.wildlifetrusts.org Rushy Platt are vital to the sur-

Specialists in PVCU, windows, doors and conservatories.

• Unique plants from our Blooms of Bressingham Nursery f4l'

• Stylish and imaginative interior products and gifts

• Lots of sound advice from our friendly team

• Fresh food and delicious drinks in our cafe • Exciting Christmas range now in!

be touched by

inspiration

38 The Link Magazine • November 2002

THE

IREPLAC

1 RODBOURNE ROAD,

Safer Swindon Shop saved for a year

SWINDON SN2 2AG

After months of uncertainty, the future of an important advice centre is assured for another twelve months.

TEL/FAX: (01793) 612288

CENTRE Specialists in firep la ces, gas effect fires with or without flues, electric fires, gas & multifuel

stoves, baskets & accessories

PERCY ST

¢ HAWKINS

DOLPHIN

THE

^F^KE^^.,^t^E ^ cc

CENTRE

OUTLET CENTRE

Jean Goncalves, centre left, trading standards officer Carla Doughty, centre right, with Emma Clark and Simon Fletcher from the Legal Services Commission Kitchen design & installation

• Computer aided design • Granite specialist • Supplies of leading brands of appliances and quality tiles • Free quotation and planning service - no obligation • All work guaranteed 7 All work undertaken by n+ , — quality installers

•

Showroom at. .

33-34 Newport Street, Old Town, Swindon Tel/Fax: 01793 490036

(insta!t

KITCHEN DESIGN LTTD

e-mail: instalLkitchen@tinyonline.co.uk

Set up two years ago with a Home Office grant to provide high street access to information and advice on community safety, the police, and council and other related services, the Safer Swindon Shop was expected to close because of Swindon Council's lack of cash. In January this year a pilot consumer advice service was launched there. Now a combination of grants totalling £62,000 from the Legal Services Com mission. the Home Office, Trading Standards and the Learning Partnership have been stitched together to keep the shop open. The community safety advice and

consumer advice service will continue, with the addition of a parttime advice point for the Swindon Learning Partnership and increased signposting for agencies attached to the Community Legal Service. Safer Swindon shop manager Jean Goncalves said she was delighted that the service would continue. "We have increased the range of services on offer over the last two years and provided an important contact point

for people needing information or guidance to other agencies for help." In the longer term, the council is looking at bringing together tourist, consumer, safety and education information services in one location.

THE COMPLETE HOUSE FURNISHERS IN ONE SHOP

SPILLERS FURNISHING Established since 1843 Parker Knoll

Superglide. E herbbm

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• Dining Room Furniture • Suites & Sofas M C DONAGH • Chairs & Recliners • Specialist Recliners • Beds & Bedroom Furniture • Occasional Furniture • Carpets & Flooring Open 6 days a week - Free delivery Alston

The family business that really cares

132 VICTORIA ROAD, OLD TOWN, SWINDON TEL: (01793) 522329/541146 www.spillersfurnishing.co.uk

For Kitchens — Bedrooms — Sliding door wardrobes Top quality at affordable prices. For fr ee survey/estimate call 01793 861584 C"leshill, Nr. Highworth, Wilts.

The Link Magazine • November 2002 39

Making Toothill safer The Toothill Neighbourhood Safety Team meets to discuss, and where possible, resolve issues and concerns surrounding crime and the fear of crime in the locality, writes Jane Dudley. The group aims to give local rep- their talent; resentatives of local organisations, • following the proven success 01 councillors and council officers the the SK8 project at the Link Centre opportunity to identify safety con- to explore more permanent provi cerns and to work together to find sion. local solutions that will promote The group feels that the young safer neighbourhoods. people in the area need to have Some of the issues and initia- more activities and facilities tives that the group would like to through which to channel their take forward are: energies. If these could be provided • the provision of young people's then it would be a positive move shelters, one each in Toothill and towards a safer environment fom Freshbrook; the community. • to seek a more permanent soluFor NeST details, contact Jane tion to the vandalised graffiti wall, Dudley, NeST Development Ofto provide a facility that is an out- ficer, Swindon Crime & Disorder let for young people to explore Implementation Team on 466473.

GASml;^ECH n I110[aIZaiI'[ail

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r Central heating installation and efficiency upgrades Repairs to all appliances and central heating systems k Servicing to central heating boilers • Gas appliance fitting • Warm air heating • Gas appliance sales • Combination boilers

Full preventative

maintenance, annual service, parts and labour cover to entire system www.gastechwilts.co.uk

Bobbi's girls do the business Girls from Bobbi's School of Dance, based at Prime Bodies Gym in West Swindon, put in a creditable performance against 30 other teams in the Mardi Gras challenge in early October.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM 53 FLEET STREET, SWINDON CENTRE MODERN

Some of the junior performers, front, from left, Laura UsherBastar, Kayla Rejek, Millie Bailey, Bethany James. Back, Laura James, Adele Tuttlebee

ill

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FABRICS Great selection A plus full cu rt ain making /l rT service. / BLINDS Dazzling selection / f Sunway & t.uxatlex roller. All the /etian and ve rt ical blinds. / leading / names1

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40 The Link Magazine • November 2002 Rainbow Therapy Clinic

PC SERVICES

Harmonise your mind, body & spirit!

For business and home Repairs, spares & upgrades Set-up & training

Relax, de-stress , be pampered Town centre clinic Reiki and aromatherapy

Contact Phil on t: 01793 531201 in: 07747 74700

07949 393179

Hairdressing Salon

Painter & Decorator

on St Andrew's Ridge

Specialist Artexing {

Call Penny on 341214

Tel: (01793) 791388

WELLA to book an appointment

Lose Weight Feel Great

Cuts & Curls

Get fast effective weightloss using naturally derived products from " Herbalife" Call Brian or Jan for more info. 01793 872659 www.feelgoodlookgood.net

Ladies hairdressing 20 years experience Call Debbie: 01 793 88142 7 '< or 07790 432012 < Evening & weekend appointments available

For Sale

Girls bike, age 5-7 yrs, in good condition. £25. Tel: 344744 Saracen Hardtrax mountain bike, vgc. suit 5'3" - 56", flexi-stem, bar ends, Gel saddle. Tel: 876409 Raleigh 15 speed bike, including light & lock, excellent condition. £75. Magnetic exercise bike, excel cond, £75. Tel: 876801 Boys mountain bike, age 5-9, vgc. £40. Adult mountain bike, £40. Upright freezer, 6 drawer, £40. Childs Play kitchen, £10. Tel: 875461 Mothercare Out-of-town 3 in 1 pushchair/carrycot, burgundy. excellent condition, £50 ono. Tel: 700456 Graco travel system (buggy and car seat), navy & yellow, excellent condition, £40. Tel: 876058 Britaxtravel system. apple rose design. carseat, pushchair, all accessories, excel condition. £80 ono. Tel: 435227 Graco double buggy, used 5 times, with raincover, excellent condition, cost £150, sell for £80. Tel: 872994 Mamas & Papas pram 3 in 1, includes cosytoes. sunshade, good condition, £50 ono. Little Tikes sea saw, £5. Little Tikes slide, £5, suit 1 -3 yr old, good condition. Tel: 07734 221285

v HOME /GYM TRAINING v PERSONALISED PROGRAMMES v FREE FITNESS ASSESSMENT For details call Carol Loubser Mobile 07958 080863

CLASSICAL/SUZUKI,:;= VIOLIN LESSONS Ring Rhonda on 01793 700099

fit.

www.mab.tgis.co.uk

http://mysite ,freeserve.com/one_on_one

Cutting Room

DECOTEX

ONE ON ONE PERSONAL TRAINING

Mamas & Papas green pine cot and mattress, excellent condition. £350. new. accept £80. Tel: 343255 Chicco highchair. vgc, removable tray, five point harness. £25. Tel: 771481 Fisher Price ballblast, vgc, with lights and music. 9 months +. £10. tel: 771481 Little Ninjas Dobok size 0, fits age 4-6. worn 3 times, immaculate cond. bought for £36, sell for £25 ono. Tel: 700917 Black wrought iron bunk beds with mattresses. £100 ono. Tel: 334884 Adidas football boots, size 1, hardly worn. £5. Boys bicycle, suit up to age 6. £5. Tel: 881362 Barbour coat. full length, size 42" superb condition, weight loss forces sale, £40. Tel: 765447 Gents black leather jacket, size XL. excel condition. £20 ono. Tel: 887737 Dining table, round, extends to oval shape & four pine chairs, excellent condition, £50. Tel: 876058 Indian rosewood dining table & 6 chairs, Eft x 3ft, £500. Double sofa bed, £100, Freezer, £50. Tel: 495623 Yew reproduction furniture. diningtable & 4 chairs. vgc, £175. Strongbow lamp table, vgc, £50. Tel: 872829

1 Free private for Sale & Wanted ads I Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7BD by 12th of the month

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication)

L-------------------I

Ironing a chore? Not any more! Ironing done in a smoke free environment at sensible rates Call Jackie on 721878 or Donna on 721719 q

NEW CREATIVE PASTIME? Teacher of piano & theory in West Swindon All ages, beginners & elementary players welcome Contact Mrs G Bush CT ABRSM Swindon 873012

.S GUITAR TUITION

tIG$t41 It 3'

All levels Beginners welcome Electric or Acoustic - Most styles - Set ups Call Andy Hobbs on 824907 or mobile 07754 200007

Brand new & used designer. import and High Street clothing for premature to 10 years + including ladies www.trendytots.net

For Sale 1960s settee bed, solid wood, new Dunlopillo mattresses for seat/back, autumn colours. £95. Tel: 771640 Pink dralon settee, good condition, seats three. Tel: 875425 Settee, 2 seater, powder blue dralon, excellent condition. £20. Tel: 876058 Brown 3 piece suite, vgc. offers. Washing machine, white, vgc, £30 ono. Tel: 771938 White wardrobe fitment, 2 robes & vanity centre with 4 drawers & 3 top boxes. £40 ono. Tel: 870675 Daewoo Autocook microwave. vgc £45. Readers Digest "Your Gardening Questions Answered'. £7.50. Tel: 612500 Fire surround, Victorian cast iron, large.. with mantleshelf, £160. Tel: 07811 946576 Large aluminium topped table, 31 ins x 47ins. £40 ono. Tel: 723601 Spirit level, 4', £10. 4 saws various, £10. China dinner plates, Myott Royal, £7.50. Tel: 612500 Russell Hobbs stainless steel kettle gwo. £5. Vintage Bradford Exchange collectors plates. half price. Tel: 612500 Massage couch, portable with face hole, 30" high. vgc, £90. Tel: 07811 946576 Bowling woods, set of 4, boxed, good condition, ideal for beginner, £20 ono. Tel: 433254 Snooker table, 7 feet x 4 feet with cues and balls. £45 Tel: 872833 Sega Mega drive, plus golf & ice hockey games. excellent condition, boxed, £20. Tel: 876058 LPs, 51 mixed pop and classical £33 ono. Tel: 877496 Dungeons and Dragons DM, seeks players for new campaign, all levels welcome. Tel: 702575 `People Management' magazines, dozens of recent editions. free. Tel: 07811 946576

For Sale Telephone/clock/radio as new, £15. Tel: 700205 32" x 21.5" oval pedigree vinyl dogs bed. vgc, £10 ono. Tel: 644179 Assorted pieces wood, half size D/G glass panels, free. Ship's mattress 2' wide. free. Tel: 872955 Free topsoil. approx 1 cu yd, for collection, donation to Wiltshire Blind Association appreciated. Tel: 495029 Greenhouse, 6 x 8 ft good condition. buyer to dismantle and remove, £30 ono. Tel: 722578 Pre-formed pond, holds approx 245 gallons. good cond. £15. Tel: 490756 Four wheeled shoprider scooter, hardly used, new condition, includes charger & spare tyre, £750 ovno. Tel: 877675 Rover Montego G reg. fair condition, MOT Oct. £70 ono. Tel: 875764 1.8 Sierra Chasseur estate, silver, J reg. front e/w, sunroof, cassette player, alloy wheels, roof bars, 70,000 miles, MOT March, £650 ono. Tel: 700917 Volvo 850 GLT, L reg. low mileage, excellent condition inside and out. £4195 ono. Tel: 721927, after 6pm

Wanted Greenhouse, ready to re-erect, in good condition and complete. Tel: 01285 831419

Exchange 2 bed flat Wootton Bassett, quiet area. for house, any area considered. Tel: 849897

Accommodation to let Spacious one bed flat with parking between new/old town, also attractive rooms in shared house, Haydon Wick area, suit professional non-smokers. Tel: 07971 513427 Pleasant room in large 5 bed executive house, peaceful location, secure offroad parking. £65 per week. Tel: 636228

The Link Magazine • November 2002 41

Secret shopping for Christmas

Carol's commitment

West Swindon Churches are looking for 30 children from single parent families who would like to go shopping for a secret Christmas gift for mum or dad on Tuesday 19 November, 7pm to 8pm. Asda colleagues will take children around the store whilst church members will entertain parents to refreshments in the restaurant. There is no charge, but parents need to register for a place with Rachel Williams at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw on 874221

Carol Woodcock from Freshbrook is fundraising again in aid of the National Deaf Children's Society and launched her 2002/03 effort with an abseil down Poole Water Tower on 20 October. Last year she raised over £2,000 for the charity with an abseil in Swindon, walking the Great Wall of China and donating all her income from a second job. She's back on the tills at Sainsburys on three evenings a week and is planning to trek the Inca trail in Peru next June. To sponsor Carol, call her on

Mayor backs biker's Death Valley dash for cash Sue Ozolin hopes to raise £6,000 at the end of October riding a Harley Davidson into one of the hottest places on earth, for Swindon's charity dedicated to helping people who self-harm, Project SPEAR.

Out for a spin for Project SPEAR, the Mayor coun Stan Pajak with Site

Earlier in the year project director Sue made a sky dive but did not achieve her target, so she's using her holiday to achieve a long term dream to ride a Harley across the desert into Death Valley, USA. The project, which supports around 3,000 people who self-harm needs £10,000 to survive from January to April. Swindon based energy company Innogy will match the amount she raises up to £3,000 To sponsor Sue, call 520111 or mail info@projectspear.com or make a secure donation online at www.projectspear.com

Looking to start your own business?? Fabulous opportunity to work from home selling superb childrens' books. Earn extra income in no time Qualifications: a love of books and plenty of enthusiasm!! Call Bhagini Marshall, tel: 01793-322116

bliagini@hotmail.com

480570.

Friends &

Partners FOR NEW RELATIONSHIPS

The local Introduction Agency that cares about people

For details call (01793) 871342 or email:

enquiries@friends-and-partners.co.uk

• Free Quotation

Credit Union takes in North Swindon A not for profit financial cooperative has changed its name and spread its area of interest writes Dorothy Brown. Following approval by the Fi- equivalent to 12.68% APR. nancial Services Authority (FSA), Credit Unions benefit members the Pinehurst Credit Union has because they: changed its name to the Clivey • are local and approachable; Credit Union and has extended its • offer free life insurance on trading area so that anyone living your savings; or working in North Swindon can • offer very low cost loans; now become a member. • offer free loan protection Credit unions are non-profit insurance; making financial co-operatives run • have no hidden fees or transaction charges; by its members for its members. It aims to encourage saving, provides • provide an easy way to save; loans to members at reasonable • offer new skills by providing rates of interest and provides memtraining to the volunteers who bers with help and support on run it. managing their financial affairs. Your money is safe. A credit unCredit unions welcome every- ion has to take out a fidelity bond body - employed, unemployed, to cover against possible losses young people, retired people, pen- through fraud or dishonesty before sioners. Members save what they the FSA will allow it to operate. The Clivey Credit Union holds can afford -£5 a week, 50p a week, the only requirement is that you its collection at The Clivey Project, save regularly. Stratton Cross Roads on WednesAfter you have saved for a pe- days, 10am to 12 noon and Saturriod set out by the credit union you days, I lam to 12noon. For more information about can borrow. By law the maximum rate of interest a credit union can credit unions and how you can charge is 1% per month on the join, contact Doroth y Brown on reducing balance of a loan. That is 703506.

TEC

Germans connections

The Russian Connexion meets on Friday 8 November, 8pm, at the Crown Inn, Ermin Street, Stratton. Exchange ideas, books, newspapers and contacts and meet some native Russian speakers. For details, call 337113 or 491003 or mail: russianconnexion@ hotmail.com

Bringing together people of any nationality interested in German language and culture. Friday 15 November, 8pm at the Crown Inn, Stratton. For details, call 539808 or 337113 or mail:deutscher freundeskreis@hotmail.com For details of Swindon's German playgroup, call 496776.

• RedCARE

• 24 hour monitoring

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BEDROOMS LOOKING FOR INDi

SOU

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Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981

boiler servicing and repairs, II

Quality double glazed windows, doors and

convenience, call 01793 873424 or 07973 831875

Central heating installations,

Cover or replacement quality fascia systems with yearly cleaning services booked In (optional)

Windows - Doors Conservatories

Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

V Cc

WATER SERVICES Shaun Wiltshire City & Guilds Qualified Plumber

Installation & connection of appliances, bathrooms fitted, blocked toilets, dripping overflows, etc. Fully insured For a free, no obligation quote. telephone 01793 771070

CONSERVATO RIES

ORATOR

DECORATOR

NATHAN PERKINS LTD

Cete64tiay If year`s

Windows Doors Porches Conservatories

petihtiKt 4i4 b becokatus

is Nest i

^ 10 years independent

Full range of finishes All work guaranteed

Tel: 01793 887690 Mobile: 07798 682271

ko$es

Swiaeolf

Offering a high standard of work with references available. Telephone for a free estimate: 07774-208527 days or 870515 eves.

hire

MA INT EN A NCE

and patios. Any odd repairs br Call now for a competitive quote.

Tel: 01793 635187 Mobile: 07890 843259 E-mail: t.mcgilll @ntlworld.com

P LUMBING

&re bathrooms

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

FREE QUOTATIONS

01793 431211 or 07771 998924

painting and decorating Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

All interior & exterior work undertaken Friendly and reliable service Also available for wall/floor tiling For free estimates call Andy on Tel: 01793 3.3983

Mobile: 07903 984844

Dave Ody

SHAW Electrical & Plumbing Ltd

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

MAI NTENANCE Ij^J/

Complete Property

Maintenance Services Kitchens + Bathrooms Renovations

Industrial maintenance Plumbing + Electrical Carpentry • f Floor & wall tiling Painting & decorating

Mobile: 07785 522377 Tel: 01793 616170 i

TILI N G

P.T. Tiling U Ceramic wall and floor tiling

Please call for a free quotation

Tel: 01793 639192 Mobile: 07966 244190

/ ,-I

---

fuse boxes upgraded

* heating bathroom installation

installations tested

***. security lighting

rewiring

Tel: (01793) 874480 • Mobile: 07860 760364 lII

uc National Inspection Council

o..o o„.„. oA for Electrical Installation Contracting

tV I

GENERAL MAINTENANCE SERVICES

All interior and exterior maintenance problems solved • Bathrooms & • Carpentry kitchens • Fascia/ • Plumbing cladding • Electrical • Painting Plus much more Quality service guaranteed Fully insured Free no obligation quotation Tel: 01793 434184 or 07719 272393

Your local quality assured NICEIC contractor

PLASTERING

P1utfrzq sage' All plastering work undertaken 15 years experience

chris.garrett2 a btinternet.com

Call for a fre estimate

Our reputation is built on you r satisfaction

01793 727641

UPVC CLADDING

VIC

UPVC CLADDING PAUL DRAPER

uPVC Fascia, Gutt ering & Cladding CLADDING

A friendly & professional service with competitive rates Kitchens, bathrooms, en-suites, cloakrooms and conservatories

'/l

Domestic, commercial & industrial installations power & electric showers lighting

MAINTENANC E

sAlclul l -Alainiemuacc decorating, tiling, carpentry, gardening, fencing

Interior & exterior

Deccoraf a-ig

ELECTRICAL / PLU MBING

All aspects of property repair and

maintenance, painting and

Tel:01793 701394 Mobile: 0790 0216618

McGill Painting

ELE CTRICI AN

For all your domestic & commercial requirements New installations • Showers Extensions • Extra sockets Re-wires • Security lighting New fuse boards Free quotes 24hr call out facility

74me,

GK DECORATORS

DECORATOR

WHY PAY MORE? CHECK OUT THE

G2S ADVERT ON PAGE 32

FASCIAS

GUTTERING

* FREE ESTIMATES *

Tel: (01793) 825965 3 Overton Gardens, Stratton St Margaret. Swindon

SERI/ICE

ACCOUNTANCY

`G RA' ACCOUNTANCY • Business Start Up • Book-Keeping • Annual Accounts • Self Assessment Tax Short & long term assistance and projects Free initial meeting

ACCOUNTANCY r T AO TaxAssis D

The tax and accountancy service for small businesses and taxpayers Self assessment • Tax returns Annual accounts • Book-keeping PAYE • VAT etc • Employed Self employed • In business

Tel: 01793 871790 Free phone: 0800 5422 778 www.graaccountancy.co.uk

For a free initial discussion call Lyndon Day Tel/Fax: 01793 766000

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Most leading brands • Guaranteed repairs • Same day service No call out charge • No VAT

Same day, local service wherever possible Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc. Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

A SUDS

COMPUTER SUPPORT

Y SIGMA

Computer Solutions NEW PCs/Spares/Repairs Upgrades/Service/Support Internet & Network Solutions For friendly EXPERT advice & PROMPT on-site service

Tel: 01793 633924 Mobile: 0781 6014363 sales @sigmacomputersoIutions.co.uk

AERIAL SERVI C ES

Aerial & Television

ADVANCED AERIAL &

Services

SATELLITE SERVICES

• TV & FM aerials • Extra satellite points • Video & TV repairs Signal amplifiers •

No call out charge

Sky Digital authorised installer ITV Digital installation • On call until IOpm 7 days a week • FM aerials • European & motorised satellite systems • All work guaranteed • Free estimates • Security and CCTV systems

;%! "

All work guaranteed

Tel: 01793 702601 Mobile: 07774 943 783

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APPLIANCE REPAIRS

CARPET CLEANING

LEE'S DOMESTIC Repairs to cookers, o

,arectean

fridges & freezers, washing machines, dishwashers

Engineers qualified to HNC level All work guaranteed • No VAT

Tel: 01793 522874 Mobile: 07711374495

DOME STIC H ELP JUST

THE JOB

Domestic Services Agency Are you too busy to clean? Are your carpets in need of attention?

J fCfl Uk7 9DG MG BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST •

•

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RECRUITMENT We are also currently looking for cleaning staff. Hours can be arranged to suit your needs. Good rates of pay. Contact the number above

24 hour call out

•

No call out charge

RU B BISH REM OVALS

ABBEY MOVE

COMMERCIAL

CCTV surveys High pressure jetting p g Pipe relining

SECURITY

CLEARANCE You name it, we move it Quick and clean service Monday to

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Friday 8am to 6pm

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Tel: 07711 806155

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X444 SPARES • REPAIRS • SERVICE YOUR FIRST STOP FOR ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT From a 13 amp fuse or cleaner bag to fridges or vacuum cleaners we offer an efficient & personal service.

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SKIP HIRE 1

& DOMESTIC RUBBISH

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0O Tel: 01793 828882

o LJ w

Superb specialist cleaning of carpets, curtains, upholstery and leather

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

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We offer: regular house cleaning, ironing services, house sitting. cleanine, gardening services For full details please contact us on (01793) 861112 (telfax)

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Single Items / Full House Long / Short Distance Storage Specialists Packing Service Late Bookings

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SKIP HIRE • DOMESTIC WASTEhousehold, garden, DIY • BUILDERS WASTE • BUILDING SAND, SHARP SAND & BALLAST SUPPLIED IN SKIPS 01793 771977 NEW ROAD, PURTON

The Link Magazine • November 2002 45

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

Letters to The Link Should be sent btu the 12th of the month to the address on page 4.

Litter picking — a pretty dirty business Rev Brian Sweetman reflects on the Abbey Meads clear up day in early October.

Repairs to most makes of: 3 Washing Machines 3 Dryers 3 Dishwashers 3 Microwaves 3 Vacuum Cleaners

John Phillips Servicing 32 years experience. No VAT. All work guaranteed

CLEANING

f Whitewa

The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist • Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard fl oors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable You'll be amazed how affordable it is ...call for your free estimate fr om you local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 Email: cliff.whitewayCbtinternet.corn

GARDEN SERVICES Grass cutting Hedge trimming Regular, occasional or one-off Long grass no problem Clean, tidy work Sensible prices Odd jobs, fencing repairs, etc. Friendly, 7 day service

Chris Reed Swindon 538839 Mobile: 07702 285865

SUNBED HIRE

Deb's Sunbeds

Home Rental

"Thank you for being so thoughtless," I blurted out as the young lad spat out his milk and put the carton on the bollard closeby. 'That's OK," he chirped, jauntily walking away from the scene with his two friends, adding, 'I would have thrown it on the ground if you had not been there.' That was one encounter I had whilst litter picking on the Abbey Meads late Spring clean in early October. Another was had by one of the team as they asked a women dog walkertopickupthemessherdog had left on the path, pointing out the £1,000 potential fine that she would incur if nabbed. After claiming she had nothing to pick it up with, she walked away, saying a few choice 'alternative words.' Mind you I wondered what was worse when I litter-picked a plasCalling Spurs people Are you a supporter or member of Tottenham Hotspur FC and would you be interested in a Swindon Branch of the supporters' club? If so, please mail Chris Poole: spursinswindon@hotmail.com

REMOVALS & STORAGE S£RIIC t N1Y A

PEE

^y".

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a^iya

Eus

i1 V

_ "were bigger than we undr Tel: 01793 772888 ^^

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

Tel: 01793 772888 Fax: 01793 772444 EMail: ashobbs@theashgroup.freeserve.co.uk

TV & VI DEO REPAIRS

GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE

Fast tanning canopies and doubles also available Free installation & local delivery Tel: 01793 619758/726906 anytime ( Mobile: 07778-641052)

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

Tel: 01793-812738

tic bag full of dog droppings hanging from a branch. On the other hand ... what a brilliant lot of folks who came. Some offered the little time they had spare, others spent quite a few hours, picking up the litter; one fellow takingabag'onspec'totidy up on his way home, a young mother encouraging her children to pick up the litter throughout the day, and really working at it hard, Thanks must go to Mic Warr who worked so hard at making sure it happened. Yet a day later it seemed as if nothing had happened. There was just as much litter as we had picked up, apart from the six Asda trolleys. Forty nine had been picked up the Thursday before on the monthly collection, As we picked the litter up, other

people just blithel threw it away. One wonders at how lazy we have become. It is ironic that the evening paper featured a photograph of two young litter pickers at the only place in Abbey Meads which is tidied daily - the Village Centre. The cleaners can tell a story or two about how people deal with their rubbish, but ou have to be up early to catch them mind you. What was the point? Maybe we heightened some people's awareness of litter, maybe we added to the subliminal conscience of how things might be. For me it was a time to declare that the "Earth is the Lord's and everythingin it," and we are called to be good stewards of the lovely part of His world in which we have been placed. y

Are we worth another 40p per household a week? from Fire Brigade Union member Perry Payne, Shatc

"One fireman stopped to take a breath and we looked each other in the eye," said one survivor. "He was going to the place I was trying to damn well get out of." This is a quote often said about firefighters all over the world as they attend many kinds of different incidents trying to save a life, This one happened to be the World Trade Centre on 11 September 2001; it could just as easily have been the recent incident in Paris where five firefighters were killed, or the next one. It is a difficult and a dangerous job at times. There aren't that many professions where people are working in an environment where, without their protective equipment and constant training, the working conditions will not sustain human life; or where there might not be a floor to tread upon, obscured by dense smoke, in temperatures reaching 800 degrees centigrade at ceiling level; or where the decisions made can and often do mean the difference between life and death: your own, others, both, perhaps many; or where lives depend upon the next piece of metal to be cut, how and when it's cut; or where all of the above can and does happen, in a single day. There aren't many professions that deal with train crashes, plane crashes, car crashes, chemical leaks, radiation leaks, flooding, persons trapped in or under buildings,trappedonclifffaces,intower cranes or a collapsed trench; or deal with trapped or injured

animals, persons trapped in machinery or even children trapped in the places and by the things they contrive to find; or offer help to those who might otherwise wish to take their own life, or that recover the bodies of those that do; or give advice to everyone from the lessons learned from tragedy, that help to make our buildings safer or that help to educate children in matters of their safety; or face, deal with and then privately live with the awful tragedies that can beset human life; or provide this service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, without discrimination, fear or favour; If there were another profession, I wonder what it would cost? A 40% pay increase is a big percentage increase if it's an MP's salary. It isn't, it's to a firefighters salary and please consider 40% of very little still isn't much! The cost of your fire service equates to £1.39 per household per week, approximately half what each household spends on the National Lottery and less than the cost of a daily newspaper. Firefighters are asking for your support and understanding. A Fire Service strike is an awful concept to me and to my colleagues. To fund our pay claim in full, it will cost 40p per week more per household. I argue that if Government had done its job properly, firefighters would not have to be asking for a forty per cent increase just to reach a creditable wage. The full version of this letter can be read atwww.swindonlink.com

46 The Link Magazine • November 2002

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH

WEST

^\f V,\angejC I p , Worsley Road $J

SUNDAYS 10.30AM LARGE MEETING ROOM

m m

LINK CENTRE

2±L building with people

(except ... last Sunday of the month when we celebrate together at the Winners Lounge, Swindon Town F.C.)

in association with

Come and join us Sunday at IOam & 6.30pm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050, call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org Jesus said: "I have co ni c that YOU might

NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

have LIFE and ha ve it in its fulness'

For more information, call Nigel on 849731 or email info_west@sfc-uk.org

For details of our weekly services

All Saints' Lydiard Millicent Holy Trinity, Shaw

St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze

Westlea Church

Make a difference Help change someone's life this Christmas by buying fairly traded goods. Not only will you be giving friends and family a great gift, but you will be helping producers in the Third World improve the standard of their lives. Fairtrade Christmas Bazaar Saturday 9 November 1 Oam to 12noon Toothill Church Toothill Village Centre Homemade cakes and sweets. gift baskets, raffles, books, toys. Refreshments

Talented Sarah's work on sale

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Toothill Church

Calling Christians A special one-day Evangelism Explosion workshop is being sponsored by North Swindon Baptist Church to help Christians in the vital task of sharing their faith. It takes place on 23 November, 10am to 4.30pm, at Abbey Meads Community Primary School in North Swindon. Tea, coffee and cold drinks will be provided. Participants should bring their lunch. The cost is £10 per person and places should be booked with Mike Bradl ey on 6 36020.

please contact the Partnership Office: 874221

•' a

A Christmas design created by a North Swindon youngster will soon be on sale wherever book tokens are sold. From the 9,000 entries to the competition run by Book Tokens Ltd. a nativity scene featuring angels with a variety of expressions, by Sarah Coates was selected as a runner-up prize in the 9 to 12 years age bracket. In June she won £50 worth of books, £150 for her school and £25 for her class teacher Celia Messenger, when she attended Catherine Wayte School. She is now at Hreod Parkway. "I was really surprised my design was chosen," said Sarah. "My mum is keen on competitions so she was really pleased for me. Jacqueline Wilson is one of my favourite authors and I will be adding to my collection of Ally's World books."

2 Christmas ideas, Sarah Coates with her former teacher Celia Messenger

Charity cards on sale A multi-charity Christmas card shop will be open between Friday 25 October and Wednesday 18 December at The Pilgrim Centre, Regent Circus. Opening times: Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 2.30pm

Caring this Christmas

Community Dividend Scheme A minimum of 1 % of the Society's profits are returned to projects to benefit the local community

through the Community Dividend Scheme.

Christmas Care will again be providing temporary shelter for homeless and lonely people and those in need over the Christmas period. Volunteers are required to pre- Donationsofsleepingbags,blanpare and run the project at Queen's kets, pillows, towels and toiletries, Drive Methodist Church between warm clothing, shoes and food will Tuesday 24 December, 4pm and be welcome. The drop off dates will be given Saturday 28 December. A meeting for interested helpers in the December Link. For details call Patsy Moloney takes place at the church on Thurson 642368. day 21 November, 7.30pm.

t,^ ^`

School ^I

•

The Co-op made a grant of £750 to the Pinehurst Credit Union to build a counter at its new premises in Clive Parade. Serving a customer. Lyn Arnold and Pat Randell. For details about joining the Credit Union, call 704157.

If you think a project you know of could qualify for a grant of up to £1 ,000, call 0800 435902 for more information

Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester

We are

Greenmeadow P ri mar

f •

r here!

N rhameS Aye

Q¢C

To Safeway Dart Ave

North Swindon Baptist Church Whitworth Rd.

Sunday Worship 10.30am - Sunday School & Creche -

•

Pastor Steve Mann

•

B4006

Web: http://nsbc.org.uk TEL: (01793) 320172

w SAUNDERS' BROOK

A NEW DEVELOPMENT BY BLOOR HOMES I N SWINDON Behind every Bloor development there's a team of real people working together to build real homes for you. Homes to live in, work in and most of all, enjoy. Saunders' Brook is no exception, where we are hard at work proudly preparing houses you can call homes. Feel free to pay us a visit, or call the Saunders' Brook sales office on

01793 702255 or visit our website at www.buildingforthefuture.co.uk You can find us near junction 8 of Thamesdown Drive, Swindon.

Ross Tomsen 'SIMON' 'The Herald'

= na^s

Thursday 19 to Sunday 22 December Performances 1.30 and 6.30pm

Box Office: 01793 465435 Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL