November 2003 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

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No. 258 • November 2003 • Circulation 23,000 M are juslifiabli proud of the quality of our proelurts and our io utation for ,eliable servire and attention to detail.

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these mysterious women in an energetic fundraising event for Macmillan Cancer Relief on page 19

Swindon thanks MBE award winner

There's a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his staff at "Purton 's hidden Indian treasure"

An event on 5 October celebrated the effort of Salas Khan. below, for his voluntary work to support the Musli m community and promote racial harmony in the town. See page 2

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The Link Maqazine • November 2003

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The Link Magazine • November 2003

Lydiard Park: A Historic Anniversary 1943 - 2003 Swindon Borough Council and English Heritage are celebrating the 60th anniversary of the purchase of Lydiard Park by the Corporation in 1943. While joint exhibitions are taking shape Sarah Finch-Crisp writes about this historic anniversary and the partnership with English Heritage which helps support Lydiard's Heritage Lottery Fund bid to restore the park today. The fact that Lydiard House stands today is a testament to the vision and determination of Swindon's remarkable Town Clerk David Murray John. Remembered as the man who set Swindon on the path to expansion and prosperity, DMJ was equally committed to providing the people of Swindon with meaningful social, cultural and recreational opportunities. When the Bolingbroke's ancestral home at Lydiard Tregoze appeared on the market during World War II, he saw its potential and jumped at the chance to acquire it. and rot, the beauty and craftsmanFor £4,500 Swindon Corporation ship of the house's 18th Century became the proud, if somewhat be- interiors were plain to see. The proxmused, owners of the nucleus of this imity of St Mary's Church with its once great estate; an exquisite but nationally significant monuments sadly neglected mansion and 147 added to the national importance acres of quintessential English park- of the site. land. Much of the park was occuDetermined to restore the house pied by a hospital camp and park for the benserving the 101 1' Ameriefit of local people but can Airborne Division, only too aware of the many of whom exmany other demands plored the grounds and on the town's finances, the mysteriously shutDavid Murray John set tered house. about engaging the Meanwhile, Swindon support of national inCorporation's rescue of stitutions and governLydiard at such a diffiment ministries. a cult time brought the The Ministry of The man of foresight town increasing acWorks whose succesDavid Murray John claim. Despite the damp sors are English Herit-

the link Magazine Published by Swindon Publications Ltd. Papermakers House, Westlea Swindon SN5 7BD Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1 978. e: publisher@swindonlink.com It is completely independent of Link Centre www.swindonlink.com and, in fact, won a competition to name the Publisher Editor: Roger Ogle leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Editorial: Tel: (01793) 872282 Swindon commenced in January 1 994." 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 photographs require similar authority tegistered in England & Wales. No 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street. Hungedord. Berks. RG17 ODL. Printed by pop. Telford

age and their National Monuments Record Centre in Swindon, were quickly involved in providing surveys and advice. The example of Lydiard Park proceeded to inform national post war policy on historic buildings and the house was one of the first, if not the first property of its type, to receive a government grant for repair and restoration. English Heritage have remained actively interested in Lydiard Park to this day, including sharing the costs of re-roofing the house. Most recently they have undertaken an archaeological survey of the park in support of The Lydiard Park Restoration Project, and taken the public on tours exploring and interpreting the humps and bumps in the landscape. Dramatic aerial views captured by their survey team in October bring further exciting new evidence of Lydiard's rich archaeological landscape. Bob Hook who

is co-ordinating English Heritage's involvement commented, "Lydiard is an outstanding example of a site where the landscape and buildings are intimately connected. The quality of the house and church are easily recognised, and we are adding to that an understanding of the many historical features which survive in the park. "As well as our landscape survey, the dry weather this summer means that from the air you can see a virtual plan of the history of the grounds around the house. The photographs have given us a snapshot back through time by showing clearly the outlines of the 800 year-old field systems around the site and the shape of the formal gardens from the 1600s which lie underneath the present lawns as well as the 18th Century layout of the kitchen garden and the original extent of the great lake." It was always David Murray John's intention to restore Lydiard Park. In a letter to an enquirer about the lost glories of the park, he wrote ' I have seen an old print showing the lake and it is naturally the hope Corporation to restore it'.

the

Today, Swindon Council has a golden opportunity to win the Lottery money needed to complete the work which he began. • The Lydiard restoration project has received significant financial help from West Swindon based integrated energy company RWE Innogy.

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The Link Magazine • November 2003

Something rotten in the state of Swindon? At the same time in September that Swindon Council's cabinet decided to back the multi-million pound bid to the Heritage Lottery fund for the restoration of Lydiard Park, the council's planning committee added millions of pounds in value to the rotting Mechanics' Institution by agreeing outline planning permission on the thinnest of pretexts. Central Area councillor David Nash asks the difficult questions that the

councillors on the committee shied away from.

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18"' QE enturp iUage 3 ill & Restatircant Lydiard Millicent

Swindon's history is wrapped up in the development of the railways - and nothing symbolises the Tel: (01793) 770425 decline of our identity so dramatically as the state of the Mechanics' Institute. V Xmas Party Menu When Forefront Estates took show in town, it appears that the could be anything. from £16.95pp • What I'd like to know is this, over the building, hired appropri- planners deliberately glossed over for 4 course • what could possibly have induced ate architects to advise them and any others. set menu • I am left with strong concerns our planning officers to tie the started tidying up, I was encourhands of the planning committee aged that a revival was imminent. about the role of planning officials I Xmas Day Lunch • in all of this. It's now almost im- in this way? And why did the comNow I'm not so sure. £41.95pp for 4 course The planning committee's deci- possible for the planning commit- mittee allow it to happen? set menu sion to allow a 'change of use' for tee to turn down detailed plans on I 'Mistletoe and Wine' the Mechanics seems straightfor- the grounds of inappropriate use. Given how broad the outline perward. As they stressed, all they Xmas Banquet. were agreeing to was to change mission is, provided the owners £21.95 each the potential use of the building. comply and don't knock the buildTable for 6 £110 Instead, I believe they have issued ing about, the detailed application > New Years Eve Dinner an instruction to Forefron t PC Support straight to do what they like. £24.95 for 5 courses. to your door All of the uses agreed to Bookings advisable • Computer running slow? suchasahotel,acasino,luxury >., • Need some advice? Open: flats and all-night wine-bars • Looking to upgrade? Mon - Fri: 11.30am - 3pm & 5pm -11 pm could be completely unsuit• Equipment required? Sat: 11.30am - 3pm & 6pm - 11 pm able for a conservation area. It • Virus and Internet attack depends on context and to unSun: 12noon - 10.30pm questions? derstand that you have to have Food served: • Wishing to backup? detail. Forefront have not proMon - Sat: 11.30am - 2.30pm 01793 887883 vided any. & 6.30pm - 9.30pm 07949 288996 It appears to me that the Sun: 12noon - 2.30pm & 6.30pm - 9pm contact@it-2-u.com council's planning officials Pro-R Bar snacks available all day Sunday www.it-2-u.com ^-• °have bent over backwards to smooth the path to a development of this building without considering the significance of the building or __( neighbouring residents. As the director in charge ° FACTORY WAREHOUSE told me - what else could OPEN TO THE PUBLIC they do? Forefront are the only show in town. 4 Well, here are a few suggestions. FREE CAR PARKING WELCOME www.lightingbug.co.uk All adult residents of 1. The planning officers' report Haydon Wick Parish • Probably the widest selection of could have taken English Heritage are invited to attend the li ghting in Wiltshire (EH) seriously. EH said that they could not recommend the plans Annual General Meeting • Affordable prices because there weren't any. of the Haydon Wick • Ceiling Fans This expert advice was disCommunity Association missed by both officials and coun• Facto ry outlet open to public cillors on the committee. on Monday 1st December, 7pm • Special discounted prices 2. Planners could have ignored at the Haydon Centre Forefront's threats to walk away The following resolution is unless they got planning permis• If you can not find what you are proposed by the trustees: sion. looking for we will try our best to "That the existing Community They have invested at least find it for you! Association be dissolved and its £250,000 in the building, so far. • Made to measure shades in your assets lodged in a new trust fund Would they really have abandoned created to provide grants to own fabric such an investment? It's a comgroups and for projects within mon threat by developers, and one • Over 700 fittings to choose from Haydon Wick and the neighbourthe committee should have faced • Special requirements and hood." up to.

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3. Planning officials could have taken the views of the Mechanics' Institute Task Force into account. This was set up last year by the council, involving English Heritage. It agreed that the New Mechanics' Institution Preservation Trust should build up its business plan as a possible solution. Far from Forefront being the only

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The Link Magazine • November 2003

Plan for the south changed after public consultations Comments made by the public on the plans to develop 4,500 houses in Swindon's 'front garden', between Old Town, West Swindon and the M4 have resulted in amended outline proposals to Swindon Council's planning committee by developers Bryant Homes. These focus on: i flooding, noise from the M4 and • s= improved traffic and transport `_ sue. ^? ' the railway,the needs of wildlife, .^ provision including significan t k. "=! y' ^ is * damage to archaeological sites and '^ '^` . A T changes to ease traffic flow at M4 w^^,..^ traffic congestion. 0 Junction 16 and the completion of -'^ f^ ^`+ °^ y ° > ^b •^ "In the early 1990s the council the Old Town Southern Relie . objected to the development, but 'I^:t` ,y TI ', R^ Road, parallel to the motorway , , having taken ownership of the site within fiveyearsof the projectstart; in 1997 the council is keen to see it s'' .1.^ 19 _ • ecology and the environmental < built on. The councillors' decision issue to protect and enhance wild/ was based on a technical appraisal :- ( f 3 in favour of the Front Garden de' ' r life habitats by providing a new ,' i • 11.3 hectares newt conservation velopment and against developarea, and alterations to the devel,; '# r !' ment east of the A419, notwithopment along the canal to protect y ,,. standing at least 47 errors and the existing water vole habitat; ( ^a omissions in the document. • increased allocation of land for ` "Now we suddenlYhave the ex public open spaces; traordinary proposal by the counAn artist's impression of high dei.^ihl I N I in the Front Garden • extensive landscaping and nacil for more development to the Changes have been made to land ture of the proposals with a second east of the A419 which was considture conservation measures to the allocated for other uses, such as canal basin introduced, to act with ered to be less sustainable than the south of the M4. To maintain the number of employment, to make these the new canals and balancing lakes Front Garden. What a pity they as water storage capacity to en- did not agree to build on that area homes on the site, the overall aver- amendments possible. Flooding continues to be a ma- sure that none of the developed five years ago, thus developing one age residential density has increased from 40.6 to 41.3 dwell- jor concern for groups objecting to areas are affected by flooding. greenfield site, not two." the development and no building However, the Front Garden Acings per hectare. The plans can be seen at Swindon As before, the height of the build- will take place in the floodplain, as tion Group is still resolute in its Council offices in Premier House, ings will not exceed five storeys approved by the Environment opposition to the proposals. Chair- Station Road until 31 October. man Terry King said the main oband building heights will be var- Agency. A project newsletter was delivThe restored North Wilts Canal jections raised five years ago were ered to Swindon homes in October. ied with the taller ones located in has become an moreimportantfea- just as strong. These are the risk of local 'village' centres. www.swindonsda.co.uk

Education service turns the corner. More improvement expected. The management of education in Swindon has significantly improved since Government inspectors Ofsted failed the council's education department in September 2001, and is on the way to a clean bill of health, according to Director of Education Hilary Pitts. Now run by private contractors Tribal Group, with oversight by an Education Partnership Board made up of representatives from the council, schools and the Department for Education and Skills, the service has improved significantly. On a scale of seven grades, in r, 2001 Ofsted scored Swindon overall with an abysmal 7, assessing the authority as very poor and failing to provide effective support to Confidence in the future, from left, acting leader of the council, Ian Dobie, Chief schools. In Spring 2002 director of Executive Simon Birch, director of education Hilary Pitts, coun Gary Perkins education Mike Lusty left, along with a clutch of senior education as unsatisfactory are the clarity and flags a concern about progress beofficers, and the former leader of coherence of corporate plans and yond that date. It also says that the council, Sue Bates, resigned. their implementation, the manage- continued work is needed to reNow the inspectors, who exam- ment of its assets, support for in- build the trust and confidence of ine 52 areas of education manage- formation technology at primary schools, which was totally lost in ment, have significantly lifted the level, the performance of schools, the run up to the last inspection. overall assessment: grade 3, highly as well as the democratic scrutiny Although there have been satisfactory, for the progress made of education and the leadership changes in the council and the eduby the LEA overall in improving provided by elected members of cation department, the inspectors its performance; 4, satisfactory, for the council. say it is too early to assess the the LEA's capacity for further imThe inspectors are encouraged impact of most of them. Another provement and to address the rec- by the management of the educa- full inspection is expected in the ommendations of the inspection; tion service by private contractors next 12 to 15 months. and 4, satisfactory, for the overall Tribal, working with borough Ms Pitts said, "we are delighted effectiveness of the LEA. council staff, as well as the over- that the inspection has recognised Areas that did well in the in- sight of the independently chaired the progress made. We know that spection include the care of chil- Education Partnership Board. The we have a great deal of work to do dren in public care, support for report says the education service but this is a very posi ti ve outcome literacy, numeracy, governors and has sufficient capacity to improve and recognises all the hard work attendance, and provision of fi- within the current contractual ar- of staff. We are sure that we can nancial services. rangements. Tribal have been em- achieve excellence through partAreas which are still regarded ployed until 2005 and the report nership and the inspection report

acknowledges that we are moving rapidly down the path to success." Council lead member for education coun Gary Perkins said the Education Partnership Board had been an important factor in the turnaround of education in Swindon. "The board has taken the politics out of education; getting all parties concerned to work together has been very important." The full report on Swindon can be found at www.ofsted.gov.uk

Schools budgets secure from North schools' needs A shortfall of up to £1 million to fund the building of new schools in North Swindon is being predicted but council lead member for education coun Gary Perkins says existing school budgets will not be cut to cover it. He said that the sale of assets such as land made available when Hreod is rebuilt on one site will be used to cover the funding gap.

Twenty years on As The Link went to press Westlea School in Langstone Way unveiled a sculpture of a parent holding a child outside the front entrance, to celebrate its twentieth anniversary. More school news on pages 14, 15, 30 and 31.

The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2003

After west, north and southern expansion, Swindon goes eastwards The Wiltshire and Swindon Structure Plan to 2016 identifies the next area of expansion for the town which will be on view to the public in November explains Mark Newey, team leader Strategic Planning at Swindon Borough Council. Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire County Council, as Joint Strategic Planning Authorities, are asking for your views on the revised Structure Plan to 2016 in a six-week consultation exercise which starts on Monday 27 October, running until 9am on Monday 8 December. It is important that everybody expresses their views on the key issues, such as the future direction of growth for Swindon, as the Structure Plan will guide development for the next ten years, and beyond. The Structure Plan is a key part of the planning system, covering the whole of Wiltshire up to 2016, stating the number of houses and amount of employment land that each district and the borough should accommodate. This is pre-

scribedin Regional Planning Guidance issued by central government. Specifically for Swindon, after taking into account the amount of additional growth that can be met on previously developed 'brownfield' land within the Swindon urban area, there is still a need to find a greenfield site, or sites, for about 3,400 houses and 70 hectares of employment land. The question is where should this growth go? Regional Planning Guidance for the South West has identified Swindon as a focus for continued growth, designating Swindon as a Principal Urban Area, one of only eleven across the region. Principal Urban Areas are the largest settlements where it is considered that growth can maximise existing services, facilities and infrastructure, enabling people to

work and shop close to where they live. Consequently, as part of the Structure Plan review, a Principal Urban Area Study has been undertaken for Swindon to determine the most sustainable direction, or directions, for future growth. The conclusion of the study is that whilst focusing development initially within Swindon's urban area, land to the east of the A419 and south of the A420, the 'Eastern Development Area,' is the most sustainable direction of growth to meet Swindon's greenfield development beyond the current plan period of 2011. In addition, land at Coate, adjacent to Junction 15 of the M4, is the most sustainable location to accommodate a university campus for Swindon. Copies of the documentation can

be viewed free of charge at local libraries, and at www.wiltshire. gov.uk and www.swindon.gov.uk For more information contact Mark Newey on 466031, or mail: mnewey@ swindon.gov.uk Meeting: Wednesday 5 November, 7.30pm at the Broad Green Centre, Salisbury Street. Swindon Trades Union Council will discuss the Structure Plan and how objections to more greenfield development can be made. Details from Martin Wicks on 496816. Or contact Swindon Friends of the Earth on 783040. Exhibitions: 10 and 13 November, 2pm to 8pm, at the Pilgrim Centre, Regent Street. Swindon Borough and Wiltshire County Council officers will be available to answer questions on the plans.

Is it time for a `Stop Swindon Exploding Campaign'? asks Eddie Bedwell from Haydon Wick In response to the question How big should Swindon get? posed in the to be provided. To expand Swindon further is to try to solve the problem 'on the August Link, it is clear from house price increases that demand from people wanting their own house still exceeds supply - and who would 'cheap' - a typical British disease. We do not have to put up with this as there are plenty of places along the M4 western corridor that have a want to deny them getting their own home? However for a town to be a sustainable living place, particularly in greater need for jobs and housing. So let's really start objecting and join the 'Stop Swindon Exploding the future, adequate schools, transport, roads, hospitals and jobs need to be put in place. In Swindon everyone knows that these are unlikely Campaign.' Mail me at: edward.bedwell@btinternet.comn

The Link Magazine • November 2003

`No man is an island,' at least not in Swindon Ann Billingham, Strategic Partnership Worker at Voluntary Action Swindon, says that for the town to become a better place, its people need to come together for the greater good

We are all part of a community — most typically one defined by location and often the political boundary of the place that we live and work - such as the community of Swindon or our local neighbourhood. But most of us are also a part of many other 'communities' — ones defined by our faith, our culture, our interest in sport or the environment, our disability, our age and so on. And it would be unusual if we didn't all share a common aspiration for ourselves, families, friends, and our'communities' for a better quality of life. Very few of us are in privileged and responsible positions of power to either make big decisions or allocate resources. We are much more likely to be the recipients of services, policies and strategies created and delivered with the best of intentions by others. And most of us want essential services, like refuse collection, to be carried out invisibly by others on our behalf. But it should not be overlooked that the day to day living experience and quality of many peoples' lives in our community depend upon services that may not meet their needs appropriately, over which they have little or no say and control. For example, this could be how you receive support for a family member with a mental health problem; it could be that as an elderly person, you don't feel safe outside but don't want to become isolated at home.

The current Government is saying several things about this, loud and clear. Firstly, that every local authority must develop a Community Strategy that aims to improve the quality of life of everyone in our community by scrutinising and developing all the strands of our economic, social and environmental well-being. Secondly, that no-one should be seriously disadvantaged by where they live and that those neighbourhoods that suffer from poor housing, poor health, high crime rates, few job opportunities must be'renewed' in order to deliver improved quality of life for residents of these neighbourhoods and narrow the gap across the whole community between the most and the least well off. And thirdly, that the community itself knows what is needed and must have a bigger say in influencing decisions at a strategic and policy level, as well as a local operational level. This does not simply mean yet more consultation in which the

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So now, let them put you in the bigger picture! Three free informal bite size lunch meetings have been organised, (no need to book): A discussion on the environment, culture and leisure took place on 17 October. The next two from 12noon to 2pm take place on: Friday 7 November at Voluntary Action Swindon at 1 John Street to discuss community associations with Terry Iles of the Freshbrook Village Group; voluntary organisuch as the chief executive and sations with Chris Lau and young lead member of Swindon Council, people and youth organisations chief executive of the Primary Care with Anne Bethall. Trust, and the Police, round the table with representatives of the Friday 12 December at The Shop, private sector and eight representa- Park Resource Centre, Cavendish Square to discuss Neighbourhood tives of the community and volunRenewal with Dorothy Brown, tary sectors. equalities with Joe Backshell and To quote Bill Lochead, a comfaith with Dr Rosemary Power. munity volunteer from Bristol, If you still think that your views 'giving power away isn't about losing power; like love, giving it don't count — then come along and talk to your representatives on the away, actually creates more.' This brings together in equal part Swindon Strategic Partnership. For further information on the people who hold resources and power with people who know and partnership, call Anne Billingham understand their communities, at Voluntary Action Swindon on who have been elected to repre- 538398 or mail: anne@vasswindon.org sent you. 'consulted' are often little more than listeners; or even 'involvement' that can mean that people are the passive recipients of someone else's agenda who is seeking out their input. It means 'participation' - an active part in a process, along with a degree of power and control. And the body responsible for delivering these three things to make a long-term difference is the 'new' Swindon Strategic Partnership. It draws public service bodies,

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Haydon Wick residents took the opportunity to express their concerns and fears about crime and anti-social behaviour at a roadshow held in the Haydon Centre on 11 October. The event was entitled, 'Crime up an inaugural meeting of a and Grime on your street: what con- Neighbourhood Safety Team ce rn s you?' and representatives ( NeST). These have been successfrom Neighbourhood Watch ful in other parts of Swindon, givteams, the police, the Swindon ing people the chance to identify Council's Crime and Disorder unit, specific problems in their commuAnti-Social Behaviour Unit and the nities and to work with agencies Haydon Wick Parish Council were and locally based businesses and on hand to receive comments and groups to find solutions. As Jane says, "NeSTs provide an to offer advice. The Home Office's Building Safer Communities fund opportunity for people to work is helping with costs. together to help improve the qualThis exercise comes in the wake ity of life for local residents." of vandalism and anti-social acThe first meeting in Haydon tions, mainly from youngsters, Wick take places at the Haydon many of whom live outside the Centre on 10 November, 7pm. parish. The parish council, in conJane Dudley can be contacted on junction with other agencies, is still 466473 or jdudley@swindon.gov.uk considering various ways of minimising the distress which these Play park planned disturbances cause. But this is not the only initiative A floodlit multi-sport hard suraimed at dealing with the prob- face play area on Westfield Way, lems of social disorder in Haydon adjacent to Haydonleigh School, Wick. A survey form is currently has been agreed by Swindon being circulated to all residents of Council's planning committee. the parish providing another opThe proposal by Hayden Wick portunity to air their concerns. Parish Council will provide footMeanwhile, Jane Dudley of the ball and basketball courts and also Crime and Disorder unit is setting a small area for skateboarders.

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10 The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2003

Keeping history alive in Priory Vale Meads. Looking a bit further back most of Haydon Wick, Greenmeadow and Woodhall Park have been built within the last thirty years. Before then Haydon Wick was a village surrounded by fields and a trip into Swindon was a major undertaking. Lorraine Palmer retains an unusual and poignant link with the past and holds some responsibility for the changing face of the Tom, delivering in Victoria Road in the 1950s town into the future.

As construction moves on apace in North Swindon, it's easy to forget that it is less than ten years since the first people moved into Abbey

As sales and marketing manager for Swindon based developers Bloor Homes, who are building a major part of Priory Vale, she is also the grand-daughter of Tom Saunders, a giant of a man who farmed Brook Farm in the 1930s to the late 1960s. M an y people will remember the pink painted farm house off Lady Lane which was turned into a riding school and saddlery, before being knocked down to make way for the North Swindon District Centre.

The family was not above its disputes and feuds and Tom could be a pig headed individual according to Lorraine. Ill health forced him to retire in the late 1960s and because Frank could not raise the last ÂŁ100 to buy the farm from his father, it was sold off to somebody else. By then, probably due to the demands put on him as a child to stand on his own two feet, Frank had become a self-made man and owned County Road Garages.

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A year ago Lorraine moved to a new house built by Bloor Homes on their Saunders' Brook site in Priory Vale, named in honour of her grandfather. "My memories of Tom are a mix of awe and admiration," said Lorraine. "As a child in the 1960s I was very frightened of him; he was a huge man and very well known as a proud, hard working person who would take no nonsense from anybody. Tom had this albino Alsatian dog who followed him everywhere on the farm which he kept to perfection. He was known to be out after dark trimming his hedges by the light of an oil lamp. "My father Frank was expected to be up early to help with milking, feeding the pigs and doing general chores before walking to school, across the fields at Pinehurst. He started his own pig breeding enterprise whilst at school to earn his keep and occasionally the truancy officer would call round to find him because he was working on the farm. "I was brought up in Gorse Hill and a trip to Brook Farm was an expedition. Tom and his wife Wyn, were totally self-sufficient on the farm and one visit always stayed in my mother's mind when Wyn asked her on arrival whether she wanted chicken or pork for Sunday lunch. Being a townie she did not know what pork tasted like so she asked for chicken. To her horror Wyn crossed the farmyard, selected a plump chicken and wrung its neck. She became a vegetarian from that day on."

Lorraine moved to a Bloor built house on St Andrew's Ridge in early 1998 and could see the pink painted farmhouse in the distance from her bedroom window. "Having lost my grandparents and my parents when I was quite young, I felt very connected to the area seeing the house which held so many memories for me. It was a heart breaking time to see it knocked down when the shopping centre development started; it really felt my link with a community of the past had been severed." However the memories li ve on and Lorraine was delighted when Bloor Homes agreed to name their Priory Vale development site after Tom Saunders and feature him in their marketing material. Lorraine's daughter Kelly moved into Saunders' Brook whilst pregnant at the beginning of April this year an d Tom's great, great grand-daughter Harley-Jay was born there. "When I walk the dog in the evening, I sometimes imagine I will bump into Tom walking his land, inspecting the hedges. As a private individual who spent much of his life working in the fields by himself, he would be horrified by the number of people now living in the area. "I expect he's spinning in his grave to know that his granddaughter, a woman, is involved with the spread of the town over his beloved farm. " â€˘ Doug and Caryl Clifford at Haydon End Farm are the last remaining farmers in North Swindon. Their story from the March 2002 Link can be seen at www.swindontink.com

The Link Magazine • November 2003

Home of the future in Abbey Meads When Swindon Mayor, Councillor Derek Benfield, officially opened a development of seven two and three bedroom homes in late September he described them as 'dwellings for the 21st Century.' beneficial as she is a regisThey form part of tered childminder. scheme of 130 homes for rent As someone committed located at the Groundwell "' to recycling, she appreciarea of Abbey Meads. These ates the 'eco-design' and particular houses, built by c recognises the financial i Redstone Construction for " benefits, having incurred a partnership of three hous- . „i. ;{t^' minimal water heating ing associations: Jephson, costs since she moved in Westlea and United, and early July. "I also like the ) Swindon Council, have been gadgets especially the PIR designed following the lighting which comes on guidelines of the Integer automatically when I climb partnership within the housthe stairs and the plug-in ing industry which cornbines 'intelligent' and Barbara Durrorit holdiiig Kai Blick as the Mayor cuts the emergency light makes a ribbon to her home with Jephson Housing Association useful torch," she said. 'green' concepts. "The house is well soundTimber from suitably South & West area chairwoman Maureen Lloyd Looking ahead, the layout and proofed, it is just like living in a managed sources provides the main structure with recycled pa- access arrangements meet the detached property." Peter, a builder by trade, is imper helping to form the insulation, needs of wheelchair users and the Eco friendly paints are smell and floor and roof joints are strength- pressed by the quality of the consolvent free and the galvanised ened in anticipation of later adap- struction. Joshua for his part, likes the system of cabling which gives steel gutters and pipes (clay below tations. Although itallsoundsverytech- him a TV aerial socket as well as ground) reduce the use of PVC. Other features include low energy nical, Barbara Durrant, who data and telephone connections in lighting and passive ventilation showed the mayor around her two all living rooms. "For me, it's a dream come true with a vent and hidden pipes ex- bedroom house in Mason Road, tracting air from the living areas. said she was delighted with the after ten years in a private rented Solar spaces, effectively sun-trap house. She, her 5 year old son house in County Road," said rooms, help heat adjacent areas Joshua and partner Peter Bennett, Barbara. "The rent is very reasonand solar panels heat the water. take full advantage of the flexible able and even if I'd had the money Rainwater andrecycledbathwa- layout and larger than average to buy a house, I couldn't have floor space, which is particularly chosen a better one." ter are used to flush the toilets.

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Mums and staff from Asda West Swindon celebrated the launch of a place for family learning in an unused mobile classroom at Oliver Tomkins Infants School. On hand to cut the tape on 25 book and contains characters, volunteer mum at Westlea School September was former Westlea games and sound tapes which en- when Neil first asked for help to School headteacher Neil Griffiths courage children to develop lit- develop the idea. "I was so pleased who became director for the Na- eracy skills through interaction when we were approached by partional Storysacks project. with parents. ents at Oliver Tomkins to help reTen Asda workers spent a week Neil said he was delighted to be vamp the classroom as a base for in early September decorating the invited to relaunch the Storysacks their Storysacks library. The Asda classroom and tiling the toilets. library. "When we started Story- colleagues have really enjoyed Over the summer holidays four sacks atWestleain1994,threeother working with the mums and sevmu ms Michelle Smith, Angie primary schools joined us to make eral have learnt new skills, such as Conde, Amanda Roper and them, including Oliver Tomkins tiling." Michelle Sullivan revamped exist- Infants School. It's lovely to see an Mum, Michelle Smith, said ithad ing storysacks or made new ones. original school still pioneering the been hard work to get the Each isbased around a children s concept." Storysacks ready. "It is all worthAsda events coordinator Jan while when you see the children Kilby said Storysacks are dear to and their mothers discovering her heart as she was involved as a what the sacks contain." Neil Griffiths shows off the Mrs Honey character from one of the storysacks

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On the anniversary of the death of her son Kristian, Jan Andersen from Freshbrook is in the process of organising the launch of a Memory Tree of Lights to be hosted at Kingsdown Crematorium. The aim of the tree is to remem- comeanationalprojectandwillhelp ber all those who have lost their to reduce the lack of understanding lives to suicide, to bring together and stigma surrounding depression, grieving families and to allow them mental illness and suicide. to add mementos of their loved An American memory tree can ones to the tree. be viewed at http://childsuicide . A service and lighting ceremony homestead.com / memorytrees.html will take place on Saturday 6 DeJan can be contacted at: cember, 2pm, attended by be- worldwriteruk@hotmail.com reaved families, the Mayor of Swindon, local Ministers and reprePR person wanted sentatives from the local council and mental health organisations. Fancy getting into PR as a career? The pine tree will be lit until No experience? mid-January. The Swindon branch of the NaThe Memory Tree of Lights, tional Childbirth Trust (NCT) is project was founded by Brenda looking for someone to fill the role Flowers from Colorado, US, who of publicity co-ordinator. lost her only child to suicide in The branch holds two nearly new 1992. The focus of the tree is to sales each year, supports a network provide comfort, education, inter- of parent and toddler groups, and vention and hope to people whose organises a number of children's lives have been impacted by the activitiesandsocialeventsformemloss of someone to suicide and who bers throughout the year. are overwhelmed by this loss esTo find out more about what's pecially at Christmas. involved contact Swindon NCT on Jan hopes that this will also be- ! 07005 801635.

The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2003

Waddling for charity Children from Busy Fingers parent and toddler group took part in the great Toddle Waddle in aid of the Meningitis Trust on 14 October at the Haydon Centre. The .youngsters also took part in a sponsored obstacle course and helped make a craft

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14 The Link Magazine • November 2003

Bishop of Bristol dedicates classroom Children at Oliver Tomkins Infants School, Toothill, no longer have to walk across the playground from mobiles, following completion of a new classroom during the summer holidays. Within a week of occupation at the beginning of term the children in Miss French's class had decorated the room with their work ready for the visit by the Bishop of Bristol Rev Mike Hill to officially open it. They also had time to rehearse their own Bob the Builder rap song to entertain him at a special assembly. Headteacher Penny Summers said the school environment had already changed. "It's lovely having all the children and teachers under one roof; there's a different, positive atmosphere being together." As a Church of England voluntary aided school, the school has to raise half the building costs to repay the diocese. Fundraising to meet the £12,000 required started in the Spring and with an anonymous donation of £6,000 and fundraising projects which have raised over £2,000, including selling bricks at £1 each, the governors' fundraising committee is well on the way to meeting its target.

Bishop of Swindon to bless the start of new North church primary school The Bishop of Swindon Rev Michael Doe and the Mayor coun Derek Benfield will be present on Saturday 29 November to lay the foundation stone at North Swindon's fourth primary school at the Taw Hill village centre site on Queen Elizabeth Drive. Called St Francis Church of Eng- Goffs Primary much looking for- Rev Ruth Cram said there had been land voluntary aided primary School near Ross ward to the exciting considerable interest in enrolling school, it will be built in conjunc- on Wye, Herchallenge of work- children at the school. "The admistion with a church dedicated to St efordshire, having with the govern- sion procedure has been estabFrancis of Assisi, who set aside his ing worked previing body in setting lished and application forms will wealth to preach the good news, ously in London up St Francis school. be available from 1 November and and in whose name the wordlwide and Surrey. "I believe that the also at the ceremony on 29 Noorder of missionaries was founded. Mr Westall told new school will pro- vember which starts at noon. Clive Westall, 38, right, takes up The Link, "it's not vide a genuine focus "We would like to invite as many his appointment as headteacher in everyday that a for the community people as possible to attend the January to prepare for the opening headteacher has in Taw Hill, where dedication which will be followed in September 2004. such a wonderful adults and children by sandwiches at the new Tawny Married with three primary aged opportunity to can meet and build Owl pub." children, he is currently in his sixth open a brand new relationships." Rev Cram can be contacted on year as headteacher of Gorsley school. I'm very Taw Hill vicar 701353.

Windmill Hill rated highly by Ofsted A second inspection by Ofsted of Windmill Hill Primary School, Freshbrook at the end of May has assessed it as 'a good school with many very good features' which delivers 'good value for money.' The report highlights: • Teaching as good and frequently better, with very good provision for the Foundation Stage; • Standards in English, Mathematics and Science being above average when pupils leave Year 6; • Provision for special educational needs is good; • The school takes very good care of pupils and very successfully encourages their very good attitudes, behaviour and personal development. Relationships are judged very good; • The school is well lead and day to day management is very good. Compared with standards achieved by Year 6 nationally, Windmill Hill has seen consistent improvement in English over the last three years from below to above average and in Mathematics the school has consistently

English, Maths and Science were judged to be well managed but the report highlights the need to improve the role of some subject coordinators and increased use of asessment data to inform future planning. Chairman of Governors Tim Poole wrote to parents saying that he was delighted with the Ofsted assessment of the school which he described as excellent. Headteacher David Messenger praised the large team of adults working with the 215 children at the school. "We're delighted with David Messenger with children from each class at Windmill Hill in front of the report, in particular the 87 per some of the artwork which Ofsted considers outstanding, back from left, cent of lessons described as 'good Christopher Blakey, Danielle Marsh, Timothy Rabbitt. Front, Benjamin and above.' We are all very comSmythe, Cerys Kingston, Meghann Newcombe, Shaunina Read mitted to maintaining the high achieved 'well above average.' 70 per cent 'good and above.' This quality of education and care proThe first Ofsted inspection in performance has improved con- vided at the school." 1998 asssessed the quality of teach- siderably with 87 per cent adThe full report can be found at ing as 'satisfactory and above,' with judged as 'good and above.' www.ofsted.gov.uk

The Link Magazine • November 2003

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New school recruits across the age range Bridlewood School off Lady Lane will be taking children in all primary years from Easter 2004 when the permanent accommodation is cornpleted. The school opened in September this year with 51 reception and Year 1 children. For details about the school, call Bridlewood headteacher Jane Rodbourn or the school administrator Denise Barkham on 706830.

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North children educate teachers A video starring Year 3 children from Catherine Wayte School in North Swindon is now being used for training teachers nationally to i mprove literacy skills and will be screened at workshops for primary school teachers in Swindon during November. Cheju. Filming took place in the Spring after regional literacy advisors were impressed with deputy head-teacher Celia Mes- ..: senger's lessons as an example of good practice. The lessons filmed focused on story writing for the unit of work ' N' on mystery and adventure. The children were taken on a trip to experience the atmosphere and 1 surroundings of Lydiard House frs where they 'discovered' a treasure chest which they brought back to school and used as a basis for their stories. Filming at school took place over four days; at times Miss Messenger's classroom resembled a TV film set. However the Celia Messenger zoith four of the children children were not phased by the who appear in the educational resource video experience and took the opportu- late writing from their different nity to question members of the perspectives. "The children had fil m crew about their roles and good memories of making the video and were very excited when learnt how videos are created. The video is supplied with writ- it arrived," said Miss Messenger. ten guidance to help teachers for- "They just wanted to watch it over mulate their own projects to stimu- and over again."

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16 The Link Magazine • November 2003

MP meets mums-to-be' Nine young pregnant women from across the town were presented with certificates for completing a'mums-to-be' course by Swindon South MP Julia Drown and mother of two sons at the Link Centre on 10 October. The 12 week course, run by Gale McKay and Caroline White of U-Too Community Business Ltd, covered lifeskills and parenting and aimed to help young mothers be better prepared for when their baby arrives. Julia said mums from a previous course had travelled to the House of Commons to tell other MPs about the benefits of preparing for motherhood. "I was so impressed when I met those who attended the course earlier in the year that I invited them to give evidence to the Health Select Committee to help influence health policy of the future. The course gives young mums-to-be a real boost in confidence and support." Course member Kayleigh Dixon from East Swindon said getting pregnant had been a major shock and she had been both scared and worried at first. "Getting together with others was very good; we could encourage each other and

"I would encourage any oung woman who falls pregnant to attend a course if they can." Members of the group intend to stay together after their babies have been born to continue giving each other support. The next 'mums-to-be' course starts in November. Anyone interested in taking part should call Gale McKay on 07733 221433. y

Julia Drown with 'Mums-to-be' at the Link Centre

help if anybody felt down about their situation, or felt unwell. "The course involved writing and craft activities, and also using a computer; it was quite hard as The Swindon Parent Partnership Service (SPPS), running now for we thought we had left that bethree years, offers independent help, advice and support to parents of hind at school. We also had talks children with all sorts of special educational needs (SEN). from health workers about baby development and what pregnancy Parents can ring in for general was doing to our bodies and it was information on SEN issues, or if good to visit the hospital labour they just need a listening ear to ward as a group. express frustrations. They can also talk over specific concerns with professional staff members, servSurgery expands in Shaw ice coordinator Susan Bennett, and Jill Wells, assistant, or trained volto improve patients' provision unteer independent parent supA West Swindon doctors' practice is hoping to start work on an porters. extension in early January ready for use by the middle of next year. "Sometimes the parents who call The expansion at the Ridge are very exciting. The extension in often breathe a sigh of relief that Susan Bennett, Green practice in Shaw will almost will allow another doctor to be there is someone on the end of the left, and Jill Wells double the floor space, to provide appointed when appropriate, but phone who will just listen," said A more consulting and treatment in the first instance it will provide Susan. "We also provide practical going support is provided once rooms, as well as much needed better facilities for treatment as help in explaining the paperwork the volunteer is supporting paradministration space. well as provide staff with space to and educational jargon surround- ents. A new training course will In a deal struck with Swindon deliver better health care. The so- ing SEN or helping with a child's start in January. Council to increase community cial hall will add to the facilities for Statutory Assessment; we attend For details call 01793 466515. provision, the doctors' practice will the community and we will an- meetings with parents at their The service also runs workshops pay for and manage a second build- nounce the letting details in due child's school as well. ing on an adjacent site off Ramleaze course." "Staff and volunteers are happy for parents to find out more about Drive. This will be a small social She added that although plan- to make home visits or parents can a particular special need or how hall with kitchen and toilets which ning permission has been granted, make an appointment to meet at support services help children in school. The next takes place on will be available to rent by local improvements to the plans will be the office in Premier House." groups. Practice manager Julie considered by Swindon Council's Twice a year parent representa- Wednesday 19 November, 7.30pm Margaram said, "the plans we have planning committee in November. tives from support groups meet to 9.30pm at the Drove Centre and with local education authority of- will cover What's new in SEN? ficers at the SEN Forum to discuss This is an opportunity for parents issues and concerns about special to hear all about the latest develeducational needs. The parents opments locally and will cover: meetbeforehand to draft questions • LEA criteria for statutory assessment; to which they want answers and then report back to their support • Action / Action Plus Entitlement document; groups. Susan Bennett wants to know if • SENRAP funding criteria; there is anyone who would like to • The latest Ofsted report. The discussion will also look at Queen Elizabeth Drive, Swindon SN25 1WL help parents. "We are always lookthe Government's latest Green ing for interested people willing to Reception open: train as volunteers to support par- Paper 'Every Child Matters' and Monday to Friday lam to 6.30pm ents of children with SEN. They ask parents views on: need to have the time and under- • Combining education, health Tel: 01793 709500 • Fax: 01793 723875 and social services into one standing to help parents with com'Childrens Trust'; E-mail: enquiries@tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk plicated paperwork or at stressful • Better information sharing; meetings." www.tawhilisurgery.nhs.uk The training is thorough and • Less arguing over funding; For more information contact Jill New patients always welcome takes place over sixteen weeks; onWells on 466515

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T he Link Magazine • November 2003

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18 The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2003

Doctor returns to look at revolutionary health care A West Swindon GP will be making another trip to Cuba to study its health system and speak at a conference of international delegates in late October. give every mem- poorer and remote areas of the " Good health Dr Kandy Kandiah has visited ber of the popu- country, and also to spend two the Caribbean island on six occa- has been made a lation a checkup years in a poorer country. Cuban sions and says that each time he central feature of twice a year and medical schools also train many returns even more impressed by society in Cuba can refer health students from other countries. the cradle to grave provision. "My since the Castro problems to a Consequently medical practitioninvolvement comes from a hu- revolution in the specialist centre ers from around the world make manitarian perspective and is 1950s; there they i mmediately. visits to Cuba to learn how their strictly non-political," he said. have waiting lists Complimentary system can be adapted to their situ"What they have done in Cuba, for washing mamedicine and ation. under severe economic restrictions chines and other "Cuban health policy sees any herbal therapies and embargos against importing consumer goods, are also used ex- disease as a human tragedy, so up to date medicines and equip- but there are no tensively. As a nobody should profit from treatment, is quite amazing. The health waiting lists to see result Cuba has ing the symptoms. Despite all the care is the best in Latin America a specialist or for daughter Alma a low infant mor- economic and political difficulties and as good as any western health an operation." the country has, it is remarkable He said he was particularly in- tality and a long age span. provision, often better; a third Medical training is the other area what the Cubans have been able to world country delivering a first terested in the Family Doctor Unit world health service. And it is all programme where a locally based Dr Kandiah is impressed with. achieve and the example they set doctor and nurse are required to "Students are required to work in for countries around the globe." free.

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Pharmacist renews contacts in the West The opening of a new pharmacy at Toothill Village Centre on 11 November sees a return to West Swindon for pharmacist Ken Schofield. He is remembered for running the Ashington Way Pharmacy between 1985 and 1998, which he sold to continue his partnership in the Park Lane Pharmacy. However discussions with Toothill GP Dr Peter Swinyard encouraged him to expand. Located right next to the Phoenix Surgery, the Toothill Pharmacy will provide a dispensing service, a full range of over the counter medicines and a range of toiletries. "It's been a long process obtaining the backing from the health authority and planning permission to build the pharmacy," said Ken. "But it's all worth it and I'm looking forward to renewing old acquaintances and also meeting new people across the West Swindon community." Looking forward to opening day, Ken Schofield

^. m

Toothill Pharmacy

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Anew pharmacy catering for all West Swindon

(Swindon Pharmacies Ltd)

Due to open Tuesday 11 November

at Toothill Village Centre, Dunwich Drive, next to Phoenix Surgery Working with patients and GPs our aim will be to provide a first class pharmacy service

World Cup Rughv at The Windmill Freshbrook Village Centre &OIKdo/ swug^^l"J^ Fully licensed for every game.. whatever

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

Sponsored flesh shake for Macmillan cancer care Here's a great chance to raise money for a good cause and get fit at the same time. Sue Bickell runs monthly belly dancing classes at Holy Trinity Church. Shaw Centre and she's inviting women and men to come along on Saturday 15 November for a sponsored belly dancing class in aid of Macmillan Cancer Relief. "Belly dancing is a great way to tone up the pelvic fl oor, hips. knees and back and to improve posture," said Sue. "My father died from cancer last year and we had tremendous supportfrom Macmillan nurses. They really were wonderfL raising money for Macmillan way of thanking them." Sue started her classes in I and the charity belly dance place just before she goes o

Christmas fayr^ Saturday 8 November Toothill Church. 10am -12no gifts. stocking fillers, cakes z and mince pies. Everyone w Sunday 16 November Purton Village Hall, 10am -' Proceeds to Purton Helping Saturday 22 November Hook Village Hall. 1.30pm_ Organised by St Mary's Chu Sunday 23 November Commonweal School, The ll 50 craft stalls. healing zone. Thursday 27 November Holy Rood Infants School. C glass of wine and mince pie. Saturday 29 November Greendown Playgroup, Grey Father Christmas at 2pm. Si Westlea School, Langstone 6 St Augustine's Church, Su rr Admission 20p. Cakes, boot Emmanuel United Reformec Stalls. Chrismas gift ideas. c Coffee mornings and Traid Every second Thursday of tl

RUGBY

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in a metal container: • Keep children under control; • Keep pets indoors. If you must light a bonfire, inconnection with a fireworks display. then: • Site well away from houses, garages. sheds, fences.

over-head cables, trees and shrubs and always away from fireworks; • Before lighting thefirecheckthat no pets or children are hiding inside it; • Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side: • Never use flammable liquids paraffin or petrol — to light the fire: • Don't burn foam-filled furniture. aerosols, and tins of paint or bottles: • Keep everyone away from the fire - especially children, who must be supervised all the time: • For an emergency keep buckets

of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher ready; • Pour water on the embers before leaving. To obtain more fire safety advice contact Fraser Drummond on 401216 or mail: cfs.swindon@ wfb.org.uk

Thursday 30 October

Asda Walmart. North Swindon Centre. Funfair and entertainment 6pm. Fireworks 8pm. Saturday 1 November Swindon Lions Fireworks & Fair, Polo Ground. Marlborough Road. Gates 5.30pm: entertainment 6pm; firework display 7.15 pm. Advance tickets: adults £3.50; children/OAP £1.50 from: Victoria Bookshop, 30 Wood Street, Old Town: Nationwide Building Society. Regent St.; Evening Advertiser. 100 Victoria Rd. Old Town.

Admission on the gates: adults £5; Child/OAP £2. Free Park and Ride from Nationwide Car Park, Pipers Way. Follow road signs and allow 30 minutes to get to site. Tuesday 4 November Brook Field School, Cartwright Drive. Shaw. Gates 5.30pm; fireworks: 6.30pm. Tickets on the gates: adults £3; children £1.50; families £7 (2 + 2). Refreshments. Wednesday 5 November Westlea School. Langstone Way. Barbecue 5.15pm: bonfire 6pm: fireworks 6.30pm. Tickets from the school office: adults £3; children £2; families, in

advance only. £8. Friday 7 November Oliver Tomkins School, Beaumaris Road, Toothill. Gates 6pm: fireworks 6.30pm. Tickets on the gate: adults £3; children £2; family ticket (2 + 2) £8 Saturday 8 November Fireworks & Bonfire Spectacular, Lydiard Park. Bonfire lit at 6pm. Entertainment during the evening Vehicle entrance via Hook Street from 5.30pm. Tickets: adults £5: children £2.

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22 Commonweal School Autumn Bash

Line Dance with

Midnight Cowboys Even Swindon Community Centre Jennings Street off Rodbourne Road

Tuesdays Beginners 7.00 to 10.00 Intermediates 7.45 to 10.00 Regular socials in Highworth and Swindon

For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732

Friday 14 November, 8pm Top 6-piece band, Celebration, will play music from the 60's to the present day Tickets: £8.50 including supper, available from school office. Commonweal School The Mall, Old Town. Tel: 612727

Irish Dance with Brendan Shine plus Chris Ball Saturday 8 November, 8pm Grange Drive Centre, Stratton. £10 Call 642368 for tickets In aid of The Moloney School of Irish Dancing

CO-OPERATIVE FUNERAL SERVICE SWINDON P "F o 439 Cricklade Road ^,ON OfFG

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Music Sunday 2nd, 6.30pm Festival of Remembrance produced by Swindon Royal British Legion. £7. Wyvern Saturday 2nd, 7pm An Old Town Gala presented by The Guitar School. featuring music by the students and the newly formed theatre group, FOOT (Fespians of Keith James, see Saturday 22nd Old Town), with tributes to Tony Hancock, and original comedy Friday 14th, 8pm material. £7. Arts Centre. To book visit Carl Palmer. The drummer's The Guitar School, 91 Victoria Road. drummer. Carl Palmer (ex Atomic Monday 3rd, 7.30pm Rooster, Emerson Lake and Palmer, Amici. the world's first ever opera Asia) is on the road again. This band - an exciting and compelling concert will be loud! £15. Arts Centre combination of two female and three Friday 14th, 7.30pm male voices. Wyvern Dennis Locorriere in concert. Monday 3rd, 8pm £ 14.50. Wyvern Three Men And Black. Jake Burns Saturday 15th, 7.30pm (below), J. J. Burnel and Nick Walsh Cheltenham Chamber Orchestra. join Pauline Black in an acoustic The wind ensemble will play works celebration of songs and stories. £15. by Charles Gounod, Antonin Dvorak Arts Centre and Richard Strauss. £8.50. Brewery

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Community Dividend Scheme A minimum of 1 % of the Society's profits are

returned to projects to

•

As winter approaches Pilgrim Centre Befrienders, who have a room in the Roundabout Cafe in Regent Circus, have been awarded a £1,000 Co-op community dividend grant towards food and running costs so that homeless people and those living in squats can find a refuge, friendship and information, and basic essentials like clothes and blankets. Pilgrim Centre Befrienders at the Roundabout Cafe from left, Beryl Harris. Rev. Derryck Evans, Mary Willis, manager, and Caroline Cairns.

benefit the

local community through the Community Dividend Scheme. If you think a project you know of could qualify for a grant of up to £ 1,000, call 01865 256235 for details.

Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester

Wt's

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Tuesday 4th, 8pm Blazin Fiddles. Five fiddle players, a guitarist and piano player, perform the best of Scottish fiddle music. £12.50. Arts Centre Saturday 8th, 7.30pm Gwilym Simcock and Friends. A nightclub-style evening of syncopated entertainment. £9. Westonbirt School Tuesday 11th, 8pm Big Joe Turner's Memphis Blues Caravan. Big Joe with his immense talent as a bass player and band leader has been presented with the key to the city in both Memphis and Jackson, Tennessee for services to blues. and the six piece Caravan provide fantastic support. £12. Arts Centre Wednesday 12th & Thursday 13th, 7.30pm That'll Be The Day. Over 2 hours of 1950s, 60s and 70s classic gold hits. £16. Wyvern Thursday 13th, 7.30pm Jim Capaldi Band - supported by Benny Gallagher. Two fantastic song-writer/performers, great songs and atop quality band. £16.50. Arts Centre

Saturday 15th, 8pm Rosie Brown. Luscious vocals, intriguing lyrics and delicate arrangements have won Rosie Brown a high profile on the London music scene. £7.50. Arts Centre Tuesday 18th to Saturday 22nd, 7.30pm Kentwood The Show presented by Sheila Harrod. From 8.50. Wyvern Saturday 22nd, 8pm Keith James performs Songs from a Vinyl Collection. An evening of classics from the late 60s and early 70s including pieces by Cat Stevens, Neil Young and Joni Mitchell. £8.50. Brewery Arts Tuesday 25th, 7.30pm Georgie Fame and Sons. Equally at home with jazz bands. big bands or rock groups, Georgie Fame has performed jazz and blues with sons Tristan (guitar) and James (drums ) for nearly a decade. £15. Arts Centre Friday 28th, 7.30pm Tommy Emmanuel. This Australian guitarist, a household name at home, and increasingly well known here and in the USA. has worked with Eric Clapton, Stevie Wonder, Bill Wyman, Michael Bolton and many more. £12.50. Arts Centre Saturday 29th, 8pm Kellie While. Described variously as `contemporary roots' or 'folk pop' singer-songwriter Kellie While's modern acoustic sound is fresh and infectious. £7.50. Arts Centre Sunday 30th, 3pm Swindon Recital Series. Kathryn Parry (violin) and Paul Turner (piano). Programme to include the monumental Kreutzer sonata by Beethoven. £9. Arts Centre Sunday 30th, 7.30pm Christmas Presence. A Salvation Army carol concert. £4. Wyvern

Or in November

Comedy

Exhibitions

Dance

Talks & Tours

Friday 7th. 8pm Miranda Hart - Throbs! (below). A mix of comedy monologues, standup and a take on theatre shows. £8.50. Arts Centre

Brewery Arts, Cirencester Craft Shop Saturday 1st to Saturday 29th Figurative Ceramics by Christy

Friday 7th, 8pm Me:Mo presented by Retina, choreographed by Filip Van Huffel. £8.50. Town Hall Studios Friday 21st, 1.45pm & 8pm Bare Bones. Five (three at the 1.45 performance) exciting new pieces embracing elements of ballet. jazz. contemporary and physical theatre styles. £8.50. Town Hall Studios

Wednesday 12th, 7.30pm Swindon Society monthly meeting. The Stones Cry Out (gravestones) by Rev David Earnshaw. Visitors £1.50. Broad Green Centre. Salisbury Street. Tel: 521910 for details. Friday 14th, 7pm - 10pm Chinese Railways slide show by Peter Todd. Organised by Swindon & Cricklade Railway. £2.50. Haydon Wick Community Centre. Enquiries:

Keeney

An investigation of the human figure Arts Centre Tuesday 4th to Sunday 23rd Pastelscape by Diana Crater Landscapes, seascapes and sky

studies by this popular local artist. Wyvern, Harlequin Bar Tuesday 4th to Friday 28th `-U Black History Local black people portray themselves and their lives through

Sunday 9th. 7.30pm Phil Cool on Heat. £12.50. Arts Centre Saturday 15th, 8pm Rhona Cameron - Live. As part of her first UK tour for 3 years. £13.50. Wyvern

Film Wednesday 5th, 7.45pm Heartlands (12A) A hopeless loser sets off for Blackpool to bring back his cheating wife. His journey brings bitter-sweet pathos, ribald humour and broad workingclass caricature. £4. Arts Centre Saturday 8th, 7.45pm To Kill a King (12A) This historical drama charts the stormy relationship between Lord General Thomas Fairfax (Dougray Scott) and his deputy Oliver Cromwell (Tim Roth) as it explores political intrigue, friendship and muted male love. £4. Arts Centre Wednesday 12th, 7.45pm The Man Without a Past (12A) Director Aki Kaurismaki s quirky tale centres on a man who loses his memory and has to recreate himself in a bureaucratic society. while coping with not knowing who he is. SFS

Wednesday 26th, 7.45pm Dirty Pretty Things (15) Stephen Frears intelligent thriller is set in London's illegal immigrant community. With Audrey Tatou above, (from Amelie), and Chitewetel Ejiotor as a Nigerian doctor-cumporter who uncovers a murderous conspiracy. Swindon Film Society Swindon Film Society (SFS) All films are shown at the Arts Centre; tickets are not sold in advance; film Society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre; join the society when purchasing tickets.

photography

Wyvern, Lower Foyer Tuesday 4th to Saturday 29th Flora and Fauna by Andzia Lender A series of large scale studies of poppies, lilies and fish on silk. STEAM The Guild of Railway Artists Exhibition An annual show of work depicting railway scenes past and present in various media, by Britain's leading railway artists. Normal admission charges to museum Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Abstracts An exhibition exploring a selection of works from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art, looking at the construction and deconstruction of pictures. colour, shape and inspiration behind the works. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery A Child's Eye-View A hands-on display with things to do, stories to tell, objects to touch and boxes to open.

Workshop

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Saturday 15th, 10am - 4pm Autumn Flowers. Explore the vibrant colours of autumn in water colour with resident artist Geoff Glover. Bring materials. £18. Arts Centre

Peatmoor Community Facilities at Peatmoor Primary School Theatre Workshop for 5 to 10 year olds. Sing, dance, act and have fun. A four week course starting on Monday 3 November, 3.45pm to 5pm. Cost: £12.00 in advance. For details or to book a place, call 881613.

Peatmoor Over 50's next meet on Wednesday 5 November, 10am to 11.30am.

Carol Jones from Health Promotion at Swindon Lifestyle will talk about healthy eating, the ageing process and the importance of keeping active.

edline

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Saturday 15th, 2.15pm Tour of the National Monuments Record Centre. An introduction to the work of the NMRC. Free. To book a place call 414797

NOW BOOKING Adult Skiing & Snowboarding in Austria 13th - 21st March 04 Organised by Plas Pencelli Outdoor Education Centre Cost of travel, accommodation, tuition, equipment and ski pass: £465 (£500 for snowboarding) + £35 for insurance if required Details from Plas Pencelli 0E. Pencelli, Brecon Powys, LD3 7LX. Tel (01874) 665241. www.plaspencelli.co .ukfski

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Venues I The Arts Centre. Devizes Road. ^ Tel: 614837 i Brewery Arts, Cirencester. Tel: 01285 655522

Cineworld. Greenbridge Tel: 420710 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 National Monuments Record Centre. Kemble Drive. Tel: 414600 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Blunsdon. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Westonbirt School iTetbury. Glos. Tel: 01666 880333 The Wyvern Theatre Theatre Square. Tel: 524481 West Swindon Library Link Centre. Tel: 465555 Confirm date. time and price with the venue

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Theatre

South African home delivery service now open in Swindon Feeling homesick? Why not cheer yourself up with some of your favourite SA goodies Biltong Drywores Boerewors Castle Hunters Zambezi SA wines

Rugby shirts Skottel's Potiie Pots All African flags SA spices/recipes Pap Dried fruit

Peppermint crisp Flings Romany Creams Mrs Balls chutney Rusks Cream sweetcorn Rooibos

Creme Soda ProNutro Cross & Blackwell Steers Sauce Granadilla Pulp Aromat and lots, lots more

For details contact Rochelle Tegg on 0788 431 8405 Mail: teggiesshop@yahoo.co.uk or rochelletegg@yahoo.co.uk

Are you looking to purchase a property in Southern Spain? We have a large selection of properties For Sale throughout COSTA BLANCA + ALMERIA MURCIA + COSTA DEL SOL ;Apartments - Townhouses - Villas

is On io Novernber Friday 31 October & Saturday 1 November, 7.30pm Me Memba Wen (I remember when) presented by Black History Month Group. An evening of song and drama portraying some of the early memories of the Black community in Swindon. £5. Arts Centre Wednesday 5th to Saturday 8th, 7.30pm & Saturday matinee, 2.30pm Just To Get My Name in Lights presented by Tanwood School of Performing Arts. From £7.50. Wyvern Thursday 6th, 8pm The Beauty Queen of Leeane presented by Not The National Theatre. A fling with her Neighbour offers Maureen the chance to break away from her elderly mother in Ireland, but her mischievous mother has other ideas, and events take a dark turn, with a chilling twist. £9. Arts Centre

Monday 10th, 1.30pm & 7.30pm Macbeth presented by the Shakespeare 4 Kidz Theatre Company. A fast moving musical thriller. From £7. Wyvern Tuesday 11th, 1.30pm & 7.30pm Midsummer Night's Dream presented by the Shakespeare 4 Kidz Theatre Company. Midsummer madness in the woods, or is it all a dream? From £7. Wyvern Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd, 7.30pm Fatal Attraction presented by Western Players. Not the story from the film, but a tense thriller by Bernard Slade. which centres on an actress whose husband is murdered, with many twists to make an engaging and exciting play. £4.50. Arts Centre Thursday 27th, 8pm Roadmovie. Intimate storytelling through theatre and multimedia, to present a funny fantastical tale of humanity. asfound in an independent video shop. £9. Arts Centre

wdcoe. Christmas shopping Performance poetry With the Well Woman Centre Merryhill Shopping Centre Sunday 16 November £9 per seat. Call 511064 for details or to book.

James Butcher Housing Association provides a •

wide choice of quality, affordable housing for those in retirement in the Swindon area.

Tel: 01672 515622 www.jbha.co.uk

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.

Tootleabrook WI meets on Wednesday 19 November at Tooth ill Community Centre, 7.30pm, when Barbara Gilmour will talk about the history of costume. All welcome. For more details call Jean Brock on 539456. Golden Lion Quilters will meet on Wednesdays 12 and 26 November, 6.45pm in the Design and Technology Room at Kingsdown School. Newcomers are welcome. For more information call Glenys Thomas on 532353.

An evening of live readings at the Goddard Arms, Clyffe Pypard, Wednesday 12 November, 8pm until closing time organised by Pulsar magazine. Relax, listen or read your own poems, or poems of choice, to a partisan and non-competitive audience. Free, open to all.

Poetry competition Poems of no more than 40 lines on any subject are invited from anyone over 16 years of age to the annual competition run by West Swnindon based magazine, Pulsar. Prizes: 1st -£100, 2nd - £50, 3rd - £25 and a year's subscription to Pulsar Poetry magazine.Closing date: 29 February 2004 For details of the poetry evening and competition, call Pulsar editor David Pike on 875941 mail: pulsar.ed @btopenworld.com or see the web site. Competition rules and entry fee details can also be found at www.pulsar poetry.com

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Don't forget to take the kids to see Santa, who will be on the Upper Plaza from Saturday 1 5th November, to make all their Christmas wishes come true! Exciting presents for family and friends with over 80 stores including House of Fraser, Virgin Megastore, Argos, TK Maxx and Boots. Sunday g 80p pa..^ng a allday Su d y during

November and December

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November

Family events and children's activities

Let us help you really celebrate Christmas this year at one of our fabulous pa rty nights, we have something to suit eve ry one! Party Nights in the Wilton Suite are back again this year, providing a four course festive dinner and coffee, disco and late bar. For something a little more formal try our Part y Nights in the Park Brasserie which include a three course carved festive buffet with disco and late bar.

Prices start from f30 per person

I De Vert Hotel, Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehall Way, Swindon, SN5 7DW Teh01793878785 Fa.c01793877822email:dvs.sales@dcvere-hotelscom www.devereswindon.co.uk

]3uller//q T&0k/ at Studley Grange Garden & Leisure Park on Hay Lane, south of M4, junction 16

Visit the tropics in Wiltshire, rain or shine, summer or winter.

Walk amongst some of the most beautiful butterflies in the world, flying freely against a backdrop of tropical plants and skimming over fish filled pools - a truly magical experience.

Observe the full life cycle of the butterfly from the tiny egg to the ever hungry caterpillar. through to the pupa stage before emerging as a beautiful butterfly. Spiders, scorpions, mantis and many more fascinating insects are on display in our mini beast house.

Studley Grange Garden and Leisure Park Hay Lane, Wroughton, Swindon SN4 9QT Tel: 01793 852400 info: studleygrange.co.uk

Other attractions at Studley Grange include: • Craft Village, • Blooms Garden Centre • World of Water Pet Shed • Bonkers children's soft play

area

Saturdays 1st, 15th & 29th Meet the Railway Workers. Join former engine drivers, firemen and railway workers as they bring stories of the steam age to life with practical demonstrations. STEAM. Normal admission charges. Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd A Day Out With Thomas. Meet the Fat Controller, craft activities, story telling, quiz trails. Adults, £6.60; children £4.20, under5s free. STEAM Wednesday 5th, 10am to 12.30pm Children's Activities. Fun on the farm for young children and their parents or carers, Follow the nature trail, feed the hens, collect eggs, seasonal art and craft work. A snack is provided and you are welcome to bring a picnic lunch. Free but places must be booked on 771080. Lower Shaw Farm Saturday 8th, 11.30am and 2.30pm Goldilocks and the Three Bears. A sparkling fun show for all the family. With colourful costumes, lots of lively characters, music and comedy, plus plenty of joining in. £6. Arts Centre

Vote for Swindon's favourite place

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Arts Centre on 8 November Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd, 10am to 5pm 50th Modrail 2003 presented by Swindon Model Railway Club. Many layouts and trade stands selling railway sets and equipment. Adults: £3.50; children: £1.50: Senior Citizens: £2.50; family (2+2) £9. Greendown School, Grange Park. For details call SMRC Secretary Nick Lamkin on 874339. Wednesday 26th to Sunday 30th, 7.30pm Celebrate with Swindon Gang Show presented by Swindon Scouts and Guides. From £7. Wyvern

Celebrating Black History Month locally

14, 15 & 16 November Former Railway Museum, This month is a national celebration Faringdon Road of the history and culture of Black Entries for the competition organised people in Britain. by Swindon Civic Trust will be on Swindon Council's Cultural display so that members of the public Services is doing this in two ways: can vote for their favourites. A panel of judges will take these votes into Friday 31 October and Saturday 1 consideration when choosing the November, 7.30 Me Memba Wen (I Remember winners. The trust challenged competitors When), an evening of song and drama to describe theirfavourite place within with members of the Black community Swindon in the most imaginative way enacting their early memories of possible, a building or any place open Swindon. Arts Centre. Tel 524481 to the public which raises the spirits • of the competitor, or the viewer. Entries include videos, poems, photographs and a letter. ' The judges will look at the depth of feeling and imagination competitors have for the place they nominate and the quality of presentation. Trust chairman John Monniot commented, "there are many good aspects to our town. We want to : ' encouragepeopletorecognisethem and to aspire to higher standards of quality and creativity in its future Until 8 November. A display of development, books at Swindon Central Library "With so many changes planned, by acclaimed authors from Ben Okri it's vital to ensure that people have to Caryl Phillips, poems, including Mi their say so that new developments Revalueshanary Fren by Linton meet people's real needs and are of Kwesi Johnson, biographies about the highest standards" Nelson Mandela and Goldie and Prizes have been sponsored by books on music, history and culture. The New Swindon Company, Intel All are available to borrow for free. and the Water Research Centre. For details call John Wignall on FordetailsabouttheSwindonCivic 463238 or mail: j wignall@ Trust call 520592. swindon.gov.uk

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28 The Link Magazine • November 2003

Cash for casual wear Youngsters at Greenmeadow School once again dressed

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Bike for the ball A North Swindon childminder who was given a child's bike by the Abbey Mead pub has donated it to the NSPCC. The bicycle raised £100 in an auction towards the £5,000 total at the annual ball organised at the Blunsdon House Hotel in aid of the NSPCC I Swindon branch on 4 October. I

From left, Swindon branch chairwoman Site Hooper takes delivery of the bike with childminder Jackie Roberts, Rosaleen Healey, assistant manager of the Abbey Mead, Paul Clay, landlord, Hannah Brockie, pub worker, Sharon Thompson, landlady

The Link Magazine • November 2003

Lunch club planned A senior citizens' lunch club will be starting on Friday 9 January 2004 at Toothill Community Centre. Organisers would like to hear from older people who would like to become members and are holding a coffee morning on Friday 28 November, 11am, for those who would like to find out more. Membership will be £2 and a two course lunch will be £1.75. If you cannot attend on 28 November but would like details, call Annette Kennedy on 614492 between 9am and 12 noon weekdays.

Christmas dinner for seniors Toothill Community Centre at the village centre holds its annual Christmas party for older people on Wednesday 3 December. A three course Christmas dinner will be served followed by entertainment. Tickets at £3 are on sale from the community centre.

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As thoughts begin to turn towa r ds the need to prepare for Christmas, Haydon Wick Parish councillors want to make sure once again that older parishioners are not forgotten. Each year they, with the help of volunteers, distribute a parcel of Christmas essentials to people over the age of 65. To do this comprehensively, it is obviously necessary to identify qualifying parishioners and they are encouraging those who have not previously received a parcel to contact the clerk at the council offices in Thames Avenue (telephone 722446) before 8 December. If you received a parcel last year there is no need to to re-apply. Tea dances have returned to the Link Centre on Tuesdays between 2pm and 4pm. Nell and George King provide the music and the lead in ballroom, Latin and sequence dancing, with breaks for tea and coffee. Tickets are available from Link Centre reception, tel: 445566.

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Map describes the woes of the world Budding graphic designer Ben Hankins from Bradon Forest School showed such flair and also concern for humanity in an entry to a poster competition that his work was put on display at the 21st International Cartographic Association conference in Durban, South Africa. The Year 10 student's map of the world featuring the wrongs done to children of the planet picked out in words, which he called For the Children, was se- Ben holding up his work and the prize lected as one of five from the UK. with Bradon headteacher Len Spiers It was also chosen by the interna- Art Committee as a potential detional panel of judges attending sign for a greetings card in 2004. Ben received £50, the Collins the conference as one of ten entries sent from thirty-one countries to World Atlas Illustrated Edition and be sent to UNICEF International a Collins World Map with flags.

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30 The Link Magazine • November 2003

Coincidence of failure sees Freshbrook School into special measures I The chaos surrounding Swindon Council's failure as an education authority by Ofsted in September 2001 appears to have resulted in the failure of Freshbrook School when inspectors made a visit in May At Olga's Hair Studio our talented team of stylists offer this year. you a superior hairdressing service within a friendly and During 2002 nobody in a higher professional expertise or managerelaxed atmosphere at our modern Shaw village salon. supervisory or monitoring posi- ment skills.' If you are after a new style, cut or colour call in for a In this undemanding atmostion at Swindon picked up the defree informal consultation or phone 874825 clining standards, low targets or phere, inspectors found that 'chilto book an appointment poor management and leadership dren enjoy school and are inter• at the school. Last year director of ested and involved in their work Open: Tuesday &Wednesday:9am-6pm; education Mike Lusty and senior and play. Attitudes to learning and Thursday & Friday: 9am-7pm Saturday: 8.30am - 3.30pm assistants left under a cloud and school are good; pupils' good beSpecial discounts for senior citizens Tuesdays & Wednesdays negotiations took place for local haviour around the site helps to education authority functions to make it a positive experience for Unit 3 Ramleaze House ShawVillage Centre. Tel: 874825 run by private contractors Tribal, the great majority; and good relawith new permanent senior man- tionships throughout the school agers in post from the beginning of are a strong factor in its ordered, calm feel. 2003. The damage had been done by the time present headteacher Steven Lake

arrived in January this year and his pre-inspection as0 Children's parties • Weddings sessment to Ofted made it clear that he had taken over Anniversaries 0 Business buffets a failing school. 0 Party planning service The report, which has just come to the attention of The Everything, from a platter of sandwiches to a full served buffet Link, states that: ... at a price to suit all budgets or pockets • L here has been a history of Improving standards rapidlii Steven Lake poor leadership and manWhy not give us a call ... you may be surprised. The report identifies hope for agement which has led to weak teaching and very low standards the future by saying that, 'excelbeing achieved by pupils with the lent leadership by the new head has already seen real improvepotential to do much better; • available funds have not been ments in many aspects of the life of the school and revealed the many well spent; • the school does not provide a causes for optimism about its fugood enough education. ture.' Mr Lake said he had not been The last inspection in 1997 found that standards achieved by 11 year entirely aware of the situation olds were average in English and when he accepted the job as headteacher last Autumn, but had /I mathematics and above average in science. Since then the school very quickly advised governors of has had five headteachers and the reality and had briefed Ofsted standards in all three subjects de- of what to expect. He said, "Ofsted say there is to well below average. With the exception of the cur- nothing wrong with the children, riculum and environment for nor the teachers but they are capay oung children and the provision ble of much higher standards. The of policies and schemes in all sub- report sets out what we have to do At Faringdon Upholstery we manufacture top quality jects, standards in most subjects, to get better and I'm afraid that the upholstery supplied direct to the public. We make assessment, the management children, teachers, parents and Q^ your furniture the way you want it, with structure and job descriptions were governors have been let down by thousands of fabrics to choose from 1'la poor leadership in the past." ,ill identified as unsatisfactory. Mr Lake has appointed a former The report comments on the dis* Craftsman built appointment and frustration of headteacher from Birmingham to active governors at having been assist him by working with staff to * All suites fully guaranteed let down. It says: Previous arrange- improve teaching standards. He ments did not provide them with said, "other West Swindon primary —4 All suites covered in the information and procedures schools were helping our teachers Don't settle for necessary to fully understand that with ideas and encouragement and your own choice of fabric mass produced so much needed to be done or the officers from the new local educa'upport to do something about it.' tion authority had been giving a when you can have * Solid wood frames It also goes on to say: 'Until re- lot of time to help improve standmade-to-measure cently, the great majority of the ards. I would also give a lot of Made to measure for the same price! school community were not in- credit to the majority of our parCome and colved in any discussion about its ents who have stuck by us. * Re-upholstery "There is a much greater work performance. Poor results were see our wide 01357 service justified not analysed, targets pro- ethic around the school and this selection of 241 i^5! vided little challenge for individu- clearer, positive atmosphere will suites today * Curtains als or the school and staff perform- help us reach our full potential." The full report can be found at ance management was not being used to help teachers to build their www.ofsted.gov.uk

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The Link Magazine • November 2003

Standing up for Hreod Satisfied parent Linda Street from Woodhall Park speaks out As one who did send her child to Hreod Parkway secondary school in September 2002, 1 just had to write in response to the articles and letters which have appeared recently in local press and 'The Link from some Swindon parents decrying Hreod as an unfit school. This has resulted in them having to bus their children to Fairford. 1 have read these articles with disbelief and frustration because the way these parents perceive Hreod does not equate to the school I know. Hreod is fast rising up the ranks and has a great deal to offer - both academically and with its innovative enrichment programme of extra-curricular activities.

I am also fed up with being made to feel a 'bad parent' for sending my child to Hreod - I have actually been asked whether I care about my daughter's education. Well I do and she is doing very well. She is working at a good level academically, had an extremely smooth transition from primary school, has a great group of friends,

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We too had heard horror stories about Hreod Parkway but felt we owed it to both our daughter and Hreod to at least go and look and judge it for ourselves. We found the open evening and subsequent tour of the school extremely informative and encouraging. The pupils we encountered were courteous and neatly dressed in school uniform which immediately helped dispel two of the myths about Hreod - that the pupils are rude and unruly and many do not adhere to the school dress code. The teachers were friendly, open and incredibly positive about the school's future and there was nowhere in the school that we were not welcome to visit. We came away pleasantly surprised. We also looked around Farmor's School and although there is no doubt it is a successful school, where both my husband and I enjoyed an education, its open evening and school tour was far more regimented and impressed us less than Hreod's. Our daughter said that out of the two she preferred Hreod. It incenses me that Hreod is still so slated by some of the parents in its catchment area. I wonder if they have been to visit the school recently or talked to its headmaster, Andrew Fleet, to find out how things have improved and will continue to improve.

enjoys her enrichment lessons after school and can walk to and from Hreod in 10 minutes. She does not have to be at a bus stop at 7.30am every morning and not return home until 5pm each day. She has had no problem with bullying, yet at Farmor's when the Swindon children went there they were dubbed 'townies' and picked on by some local pupils and there was also trouble on the school bus. It beggars belief that some of the parents who have sent their children to Farmor's because they felt there was no suitable alternative locally are now bleating on about how much it costs them each year in bus fares. If they felt that sending them to school in Fairford was the only way their children would get a decent education then su re ly they shouldn't be moaning, but rather consider it money well spent and a small price to pay. My daughter has just gone into Year 8 and loves being at Hreod. The school's exam results continue to improve whereas Farmer's results, although still impressive, have dropped slightly. Hreod should not be discounted and I implore those parents of Year 6 children in its catchment area to please give it a chance. Get an unbiased, balanced view before judging it out of hand based on hearsay and misconception. Hreod was a failing school - it is no longer!

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32 The Link Magazine • November 2003

Vienna to Varna (or is it Nirvana?) Former Greendown student Allister Liew decided to break away from his job as a web designer in London and take off on a one man sponsored bike ride down the Danube. Here he describes his trip in September.

Having lived out of two panniers and camping wild in a one man tent, covering 1,067leg-pounding miles cycling through central and eastern Europe on a mediocre mountain bike, five countries, five different currencies, four border crossings, five languages, five capital cities and five punctures later, I arrived at Varna on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. been pledged over be. All in all a truly edifying expeThe object of this journey, be- Firstly, a chance to take £1,000 and any further rience. ginning in Vienna, was twofold. time out from the office Donations to the Alzheimer's Socontributions would way of life to experience be gratefully received. ciety can be made online at http: / an outdoor existence in I have now re- www.justgiving .com/cyclingalli adifferentenvironment turned, body and soul where there are more photographs and also to generate ) intact and some seri- of the trip. awareness of near-by ous leg muscles, feelcultures. Secondly, to raise money for thr ing fitter than ever. Cycling for deaf children Averaging around 60 Alzheimer's Societ\ . miles per day, I cov- A mum from My Nan (who is cur- 1 ered some amazing Grange Park rently being looked after by my parents in terrain, through for- will spend a ests, along approxi- week cycling Swindon) is suffering from a form of demenmately300milesofthe across Cuba (blue) Danube river, in aid of the tia. I have seen how difficult a condition this can be. Sup- up mountains, down dales and had National porting this cause is something many challenging episodes like Deaf Chilclose to my heart. So far I have warding off stray dogs who looked dren's Socilike wolves, passing anxiously ety in Nothrough armed border crossings, vember. A smile and a kind sinking into river banks, covertly Gail Welch, locating secluded places to camp, who went deaf overnight as a child, word does such a lot spending days in solitude. will ride with ten others and aims This adventure has left me with to raise at least £2,600. June Bassett from White Castle, Donations to Gail's effort can be Toothilliscelebratingbeingchosen a greater appreciation of both na as the local Slimming World woman ture and humankind. I met some made via The Link, address on page of the year by other members at interesting characters and was 4, or at NatWest Bank, NDCS Ltd. Toothill Communi ty Centre. pleasantly surprised at how Cycle Cuba No. 2 Account, No. friendly and helpful people can 78688639, sort code 60-0208.

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June only joined in November last year because extra weight was causing health problems like high blood pressure. Having lost 501b, her blood pressure is back to normal and the arthritis in her feet is greatly reduced. "I was really pleased to be nominated by the other people in the club; we all get along so well," said June. "I make a point of chatting with newcomers to the class and try to get them involved." Class coordinator Sharon

Painter said it was a bit of a struggle to establish the group and June had provided tremendous support. "She's always there with a smile and encourages others, even if they gain a bit of weight. June was nominated by all the members and we would also like to thank her husband Frank who makes a lovely cup of tea."

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It's time for Swindon people to look again and get behind 'their' team Light years away from five star hotels, drugs tests and tabloid front pages, the fortunes of Swindon Town seem to be improving at last, writes Chris Scott, a passionate supporter for over fifty years. Once the epitome of scandal in the game when they were relegated for financial irregularities, the County Ground club seem to be on the brink of stability both on and off the pitch. There is a lot more to the national game than that which too often feeds the front pages as well as sports columns in our daily papers. Maybe the pendulum might at last be swinging back in favour of Swindon Town despite two successive defeats in October. I wonder how many of the youngsters (and their parents) who flaunt the Man U, Arsenal, Chelsea or Liverpool logos on their shirts have actually seen their heroes play in the flesh? Not many I suspect but everyone likes to be associated with success. Why not try a red shirt with a sunk like Newport County and Nationwide logo and support our Aldershot and many more. But that era is over. A new manlocal heroes who take forth the name of the town; it's becom ing very fash- agement team and board, still with ionable here in Wiltshire? Be in at Sir Setori s help, is building firm the start because there's a strong foundations,the fans are slowly resense that we may just be back on sponding and the talk is of a play off place rather than a fight to avoid the road to the Premiership. A decade ago Swindon Town slipping back into the lowest diviwere competing with the elite, sion. Andy King whose resignation as Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and the like in a season manager was demanded only a year which was there for the experi- ago has brought in players who are ence. Even then money had taken already starting to turn Swindon over and Swindon went the way Town's fortunes around. A ten which many promoted sides have match league unbeaten run ended with an unlucky defeat by Bristol followed. The club, which had over- City followed by an injury depleted stretched themselves financially, side losing at home to Stockport. are only now beginning to recover, But there is buzz an d belief around not helped in the past by some the club that they can do well. In the community Swindon strange decisions at board level by Town FC has become 'our club' the then directors. Let me say right away that the again — an important part of the one shining beacon of hope in all community which deserves supthat time has been major share- port, not only by attending matches holder and Swindon Town fan Sir but using the facilities ranging Seton Wills. Without his cash and from coaching at several centres in protection the club would have Swindon, fun weeks, party and function venes. ^, And the players are among the first to offer their services to help open local events or visit sick kids in hospital, and in many other ways give their support to the local community. Maybe the time is ripe for Swindon people to enjoy Swindon institutions and give them their support and who knows what dreams might come true. Call the club on 333700 and they will be more than pleased to tell you more. Photos from the home game against Stockport on 11 October provided by Richard Win tle, Calyx Multimedia.

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34 The Link Magazine • November 2003

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Brook Field School held its first Walk to School Day at the end of September to celebrate its success in the Safer Routes to School project which has seen the installation of pedestrian controlled crossing points on both Cartwright Drive and Peatmoor Way during the last two years and the provision of extra covered cycle racks. Lisa Gibbs, Swindon Council's occasionaltrafficjams.Thereisstill Travel Plan co-ordinator, helped a long way to go to convince some governors present the safer routes parents that walking or cycling to message at assemblies through a school is a much healthier option. puppet show, joining in a rap and Below, Safer Routes governor Claire taking part in a walk to school Walker with Lisa Gibbs and Amy the game. walk to school puppet Anybody who has passed the school in the morning and afternoon will have noticed the huge number of cars parked outside and

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New base for home library Swindon Home Library service has moved to the North Swindon Library and has a new telephone number: 707127. If you are housebound or are recovering from a stay in hospital and would like a volunteer to visit a library on your behalf, call Debs Osorio to discuss your needs, or mail: dosorio@swindon.gov.uk

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The Link Magazine • November 2003

Homework club for kids and parents in the library North Swindon Library is the venue for an interesting experiment to get parents more closely involved with their children's learning and, perhaps, develop their own skills at the same time. Swindon Learning Partnership, with the support of the library staff, has established a SOKS club - Supporting Our Kids - so that parents and carers and children can learn and share skills and experiences in a positive and enjoyable atmosphere. Hilary Stiles with two of her three children who attend SOKS, Chris and Sarah, Liz Lovell from Moredon said with from left, Gilli Brookes-Palmer, Jackie Crowther and Maggie Brennan she visited the library with her son to look for a book and was asked if Ten year old Chris, who attends ment, but she was very pleased he would like to search the internet Tregoze Primary School, con- with the response and the interest for the information he needed. She firmed, "I look forward to doing shown by the families. "We were and her children have returned my homework in the library." unsure how a homework club for each week. "We are not connected SOKS tutor Maggie Brennan both children and parents would to the internet at home yet, so it from New College was delighted work out, but it has taken off and was good to be able to use the to see families return to the club there is room for more. We will be computers without charge and since its launch in mid-September. evaluating the project after the inihave somebody on hand to guide "It has been fascinating watching tial 12 weeks and hope to restart in us. The children have been saving the children researching such a the New Year." up their homework to do it in the wide range of topics," she said. As well as the qualified family library," she said. "Although I am here to help both learning and IT tutors available, Former West Swindon resident parents and children broaden their library staff assist in locating reHilary Stiles from Braydon near IT skills, I find I am helping the sources. Internet access is free and Purton, said the library was con- children with specific queries, so is printing and photocopying. venient to reach and the standard whilst the adults observe and give Library membership is necessary, of the facilities was attractive. "I support later if required." but is easily obtained - parents need work with computers all day at Jackie Crowther, Family Learn- to bring in some ID showing their Nationwide, but it's great for both ing Co-ordinator at the Swindon current address. children to be able to use the com- Learning Partnership, acknowlLibrary manager Gilli Brookesputers at the same time." edged that the project is an experi- Palmer is pleased that she and her

.,1

staff are able to assist in the scheme. "This is another way to show people the wide range of facilities that exist in the library and how it is possible to get so much out of them," she pointed out. The club is a drop-in session on Wednesday afternoons, 4.30pm to 7.30pm.

Top 100 in stock Swindon libraries service have the top 100 books nominated across

Britain for the BBC Big Read at Central, West and North Swindon branches.

Three more sets of the top 21 novels, now being aired by Clive Anderson, have been purchased for Highworth, Wroughton and Moredon. Votes for the nation's most popular work of fiction can be made online and also from any of the People's Network computers in a library.

Where to find Fairtrade A new edition of the Wiltshire Fairtrade Directory was launched in late October. The Fairtrade logo shows that the producers will receive a minimum price for their goods. Call Lynn Forrester on 466167 to find out where to obtain a copy.

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36 The Link Magazine • November 2003

Blue's (big)

Bang out of order Fireworks are becoming more spectacular every year. But our furry friends fail to share our love of the bright flashes, screeches and loud bangs. For them and their owners, 5 November and many nights before and afterwards, can be a very frightening and distressing time. In the past, sedation was the only way to calm your dog, but now there is a natural way to keep your environment stress free during the firework season. D.A.P. (dog appeasing hormone) is an easy to use plug-in

diffuser, which continuously releases the active ingredient of the appeasing hormone found in all lactating females, into the environment and allows trouble free treatment for up to four weeks. Research has shown that the reassuring properties of the appeasing hormone persist into adulthood. They appear to modulate both emotional state and social interaction throughout the dog's life. For more information about the D.A.P. diffuser call Thameswood Small Animal Hospital on 526780. www.thameswoodvets.co.uk

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Only 116 Bouvier de Flandres dogs are registered with the Kennel Club in this country: two of them live in Haydon Wick. Two years ago The Link reported on the skills and achievements of 8 stone Blue who lives with his owner Janet Garrett in Pond Street. Now he has a young brother, who is only just a bit smaller. Janet heard that Sebastian had literally outgrown his previous home near Liverpool and was particularly interested when she learned that he had been sired by Blue's father. The respective moth-

Tel: 01793 526780 Open all day: Monday - Friday. Saturday 9am - 1lam Consultations by appointment. Ample free parking

Kind, qualified staff For more details and offers call Jo on 01793 731829 or 0798 4647744

ers are also related to each other. Mixed parentage has resulted in a difference in coat colour, with Sebastian's grey brindle contrasting with the older dog's black (no, not blue). Sebastian's cropped coat will soon grow to match Blue's shaggy appearance. The one year old is already more that half the size of his big brother, said Janet. "Seb is just like Blue in temperament. Despite his size, there's not an aggressive bone in his body." At 9 years, Blue is approaching a mature age, but is still capable of giving the youngster a run for his money - but only in short bursts. "We don't have to go on long walks to give Blue exercise because they chase each other around the garden," said Janet. As we previously reported, Blue has an outstanding record as a show dog. He has gained the Kennel Club's Good Citizen Gold Award, probably the only Bouvier to have reached such a level. He has again been selected by the club to demonstrate his noted agility and obedience skills at Earl's Court in November. Recently, he came sixth out of 5,000 dogs who entered the RSPCA Dog of the Year competition for rescue dogs, judged by TV vet David Grant.

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THE DROVE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

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Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6.3fpm y Saturda 12noon - 3pm Consulting hours: By appointment Mon - Fri: 9am - 10.30am; 3.30pm - Spm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - Al! Sunda y and Emergency consults b.% appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital - Telephone (01793) 522483

The Link Magazine • November 2003

little brother

Registered childminder

Now it's Sebastian's turn explained started working towards the Good Janet. "We're spending a lot of time Citizen Bronze Medal and begins schooling Seb in obedience and, agility training in January. although they attend different The Bouvier de Flandres breed classes, they learn from each other was originally used in the Low all thetime.Sebwatcheshisbrother Countries and North France to in his class at the Paws for Fun drive cattle, making full use of their Club at Toothill Community Cen- bulk to nudge the animals in the tre whilst Blue scrutinises Seb's required direction. They also have progress in the beginners' class in a distinguished war record. DurBroad Street Church Hall." ing the First World War they demSeb obviously has a long way to onstrated intelligence and bravery go before he can boast similar as they delivered messages and achievements as Blue but he has pulled supply carts.

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Magnet therapy benefits much loved pet Sam After Sam a six year old Border Collie from Freshbrook was hit by a bicycle three years ago, the lively pet started to develop rheumatism and arthritis in his front legs. Owner David Hoare said seeing Sam struggling to his feet and stretching out after inactivity was really sad, and the £60 monthly bill on medication to reduce the stiffness was an expensive outlay. The prospect of paying out this sum for the rest of Sam's life was a crippling thought. In June David fitted Sam with a ' Bioflow collar. Made by British company Ecoflow, the Bioflow contains two magnets which subject y the blood supply to a magnetic field. Sam wearing his Although he had known about Bioflow collar Bioflow for some time, David was surprised by the effect. "Sam was a "We know people who spend really energetic dog, as you would an absolute fortune on tablets for expect from a collie, but he would their dogs with very little effect, suffer after a good run. After we but they say the change is amazing put the collar on, the stiffness after they fitaBioflow,"saidDavid started to reduce within a few days So impressed by the Bioflow efand within two weeks he was off fect, David and his daughter the pills. It was a remarkable Frances now wear Bioflows dechange; Sam is like a new dog." signed for humans. Frances is a The power of Bioflow revealed groom and instructor at a riding itself after Sam lost his collar whilst school where Bioflow magnets are on holiday in August. The stiff- used to rapidly reduce muscle stiffness started to return in less than a ness in race horses. week and progressively got worse. The Link is now an independent But the discomfort disappeared distributorofEcoflowproductsfor quickly after David bought another pets and humans. collar. For a colour brochure call 872282.

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The Link Magazine • November 2003

Keep the helicopter in the air The Wiltshire Air Ambulance is seeking people to create a team of volunteer supporters in the Swindon area. The Boeing helicopter based at Devizes is shared with the police, and the air ambulance service has to contribute £320,000 annually to its upkeep.Staff are on duty for 19 hours a day, 365 days a year, and medical tasks always get ^r ...: t f

priority.

For safety reasons the helicopter could not land in Swindon before the opening of the Great Western Hospital last December. However now that it is in greater use, the service is desperate to raise its profile in the town and get more people involved in keeping it flying. For details of how to help, call Tracey Edwards on 01225 759217.

Shifting litter in Shaw Thirty people turned up to the Shaw litter pick in early October. Organised jointly by the Holy Trinity Church eco-congregation and Shaw Residents Association the volunteers picked through shrubs, beds and hedges close to the village centre to remove piles of bottles, cans, chip wrappers and kebab boxes. Further litter picks are being planned and will be publicised in due course.

Conservation group gets community backing in dispute with council At a well attended meeting at the Haydon Wick Parish Council offices at the beginning of October, members of the Seven Fields Conservation Group committee were given full support in their criticism of Swindon Council about how they carry out work on the nature reserve and their unsatisfactory liaison with the group. The meeting heard of concerns council before the end of January over the construction of the Pond were endorsed. If that date is not Street to Whitworth Road cycle met, the committee was authorpath, the removal of hedgerow ised to refer the matter to the local trees and the way that ragwort, government ombudsman. Four councillors from the wards poisonous to animals, was allowed to develop amidst grass waiting to were present to hear of the probbe cropped as hay. lems first hand but Fionuala Foley, Residents from Greenmeadow, cabinet lead member for Swindon Abbey Meads, Penhill and further Services, the department which is afield, regard the area as a valu- the butt of much of the criticism, able nature reserve and a place of was unable to attend. rural peace. Those present at the The group's secretary, Marilyn meeting acknowledged the impor- Beale, said, "we were very pleased tant work committee members do. with the support demonstrated. A resolution from the floor, reaf- We have worked hard as volunfirmed full support for the group's teers to preserve and improve this aims, adding that these objections important resource in North Swinare now even more valid that be- don, and we hope that the strength of feeling expressed by those fore. The actions taken by the com- present will help us to make some mittee in trying to get a resolution significant progress with the counof outstanding issues with the cil."

Staff needed to let pre-schoolers start Young children desperate to start learning through play are being denied a chance due to a lack of teaching assistants. Organisers at Westlea Pre-School at Langstone Way, Westlea, have a waiting list of children who want to take their first steps in education but they are unable to invite them into the classroom because recent advertisements for teaching assistants have failed to generate any uignificant interest. Anyone interested in working with children can apply as previous experience is not essential. For details call Tamara Lewis on 877599.

Tidying up their neighbourhood, Chris and May Maynard, Gail Reeve

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(written details on request) 9

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on Salisbury Street, Swindon. The guest speaker is dietitian Rachel Halkyard from the Great Western Hospital who will describe how cholesterol levels may be controlled naturally. This talkwill explain how good control may be achieved through careful diet choices. Attendance is open to anyone with an interest in diabetes and its management and admission is free. Further details about meetings and the Swindon group can be obtained by calling me on 851229 or mail: matthewspencer@care4free.net

The Link Maaazine • November 2003

Festive fun in Priory Vale

Conserving trees by coppicing

Christmas is a time of goodwill and celebration, with lots of eating, drinking and merrymaking and if all goes well it should be a lot of fun writes Catherine Rice. Unfortunately, it will also result look after the birds on Priory Vale in about 3 million tonnes of rub- this winter. bish. With a bit of thought we can The workshop is being run by make our celebrations this Christ- the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and mas a little easier on the Earth. supported by the North Swindon This is the idea behind a work- Development Company. It is a shop for Priory Vale residents at the free event, but booking is essenPriory Vale Visitor's Centre on Sun- tial. Children must be accompaday 23 November, 2pm and 4pm. nied by an adult. It will include fun arts and crafts For more information and bookactivities for children, a try & buy ing please contact Catherine Rice Fairtrade stand and lots of informa- on 01793 526244 or Mandie Gray ti on and top ti ps on how to have a on 01380 725670. green Christmas. There wi ll also be a chance to make birdcake and feeders to help

LANDSERVE

Make your neighbourhood nicer Swindon Council Local Agenda 21 offers grants of up to £500 to

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Roofing E building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 8748 07

GK DECORATORS Tel:01793 701394 Mobile: 0790 0216618 Interior & exterior painting and decorating Coving • Dado rails No job too big or too small. Free estimates and friendly service

GARAGE DOORS

o y'. Superb Security Locking Facilities Highly trained fitters a N Full Back-up services Broken Handles & Cables Replaced Largest stockists of top quality branded products in the South West of England

• • • •

Tel: 01793 513796

Shaw Electrical & Plumbing Ltd

on 874480 or 07860 760364

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

Interior & Exterior Painting and Decorating

For a free quotation call Steve George

All work guaranteed and undertaken by a qualified engineer

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Conservatories, fascias and guttering

• Up and Over, Roller & Sectional Garage Doors • Remote Operation Doors 3 GARAGE DOOR', Z 9, • 2 Year Guarantee a ^' • Maintenance Free Doors

NEWTECH U.K. Ltd New electrical installations Additional sockets and lights Additional telephone points Security lighting & alarms Fault finding & repair Electric showers Rewires ,7" P.C. networks

UPVC windows &I doors

DECORAT OR

DECO RATO R

O'SULLIVAN Interior/exterior painting & decorating • Wallpaper hanging • Tiling • Replacement skirtingboards, coving, picture rails Lam i nate flooring fitted

Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted

or 07799 085252

JAMES

•

Paul J2hind

Tel: 01793 701469

Vt 4tCte Painting and decorating Domestic & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES Quality & Service

BUILDING SERVICES

installations

Tel: 01793 723407 Mobile: 07990 847623

or 07771 998924

ENS

Maxwell House Maxwell Street Swindon SN1 5DR www,garagedoorsupplies,co.uk • email: swindondoorservices@btinternet.com

PLASTERING -__ f-•.

Brian Jones Plastering Services * External rendering * Plastering two coat * Re-skimming * Dry lining * Coving * New or repairs

Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905

•

Fully insured • Quality workmanship • Competitive rates All aspects of plastering covered Tel: 01793 882329 M: 07766 525959

PLU MBING General plumbing services • Radiators • Pumps • Tanks • Boilers • Cylinders ^t • Burst pipe • Taps • Washing machine installed A local service by

tThG

D UG Y G

Tel: 01793 828882

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CARPENTRY

36I Qiraiwtrry

G.P. Building Specialist

Extensions and loft conversion specialists Also painting, decorating and paperhanging

Maintenance work undertaken Est 15 years

For a free quotation call 07767 417079 (day) or 01793 435876 (eve)

DOUBLE GLAZING

DRIVEWAYS

HARDROCK SURFACING

SPIG INSTALLATIONS

Ian For quality windows and doors Tel: 01793 331551 07775 621764 / 07799 284998 FENSA See our advert on page 31

FLOORING J.j lll.

All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MAST ER FITTER

I Plumbing All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed ::: Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of

Insurance backed guaranteed

EL ECTRICIA N

ELECTRICIAN

Dave odd

Ladsworth ELECTRICAL

Tel: 01793 887690 Mobile: 07798 68227 1

HOME MAINTENANCE

HOUSE/GARDEN

ROB HALL

G R SERVICES

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

HEATING, GAS & PLUMBING SERVICES

Interior and exterior painting, decorating & tiling

Central heating installations, boiler servicing and repairs,

Tel: V 01793 815254 Rreg:18760 .

M.P.S.

Plumbing & Heating Services For gas central heating, bathrooms, showers and all other plumbing & heating work

CALL 01793 522579

Free estimates

Full range of finishes

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

HEATING & PLUMBING

PLUMBING & HEATING

PLUMBING

independent

Tel: 01793 878609 Mobile: 07885 543294

Complete tarmac

Call now for a free, at home consultation

25 Kennet Avenue, Greenmeadow

1 0 years

Tel: 01793 772268

drop kerbs and edgings, etc.

All aspects of plumbing

07970 865883

NATHAN PERKINS LTD

Windows Doors Porches Conservatories

services

Driveways, paths,

bathroom and power showers

ll • L la^'^

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

CONSERVATORI ES_

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

Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed • 14 years experience

01793 875559 07748 964433

J ^•

^t e

BUILDI NG SERVICES

^ • r•

MOBILE: 0781 6906437 mps.uk@btinternet.com

Gardening/fencing/patios Roof repairs Fascia & guttering

Replacement and cleaning service Friendly, reliable and competitive Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879

PLU MBING & HEATING Quality Plumbing & Heating • Central heating installation • Boiler servicing & repairs • Replacement boilers • Outside taps • Power showers '` • Bathroom installations 'a9^

All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices Kevin Rolfe

Reg No 67416

Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367

Quality Domestic Electrical Installations Extractor fans Outside lighting Pond pumps Power to sheds & garages Extra lights & sockets Electric showers Experienced & reliable Tel: 01793 821377 Mob: 07930 284293

Tel/Fax: 01793 723495 Mobile: 07771 617992 All garden work Building Small roof repairs Guttering and Fascia All carpent ry External painting Internal painting & decorating Electrical Replace sockets Extra sockets Outside lights ALL WORK GUARANTEED. FULLY I NSUR ED Concreting paths Patio repairs Repair or replace small walls Grass cutting Hedges & trees cut Plumbing repairs Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, ove rf lows repaired or replaced

PLUM BING & H EATIN G RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD 20 years experience in plumbing work •

Central heating

• Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed •

No job too small

For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

SERVICE

ACCOUNTANCY

ACCOUNTANCY H.S.A. Accounting Services

TAO

for all your accounting needs

Tx A s s, s* 0

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

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

BOOK-KEEPING

Our friendly and experienced staff are ready to help you with: VAT Returns • Tax Returns Payrolls • Construction Industry Partnerships • Sole-traders We offer a tailored service to suit all your needs Call us now for a free no obligation quote Tel: 01793 632249 Mobile: 07810 543325

helen@hsaaccountingservices.fsnet.co.uk

CARPET CLEANING

J Savage

1; f f

Complete Book-keepiing

The Carpet & '^ Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

a^^o

Services • Management accounts • VAT return - Sae a roll • Sage-accounting Self as e sment Self employed Small business For a professional & friendly service

GAS CARE I

Cookers & Hobs 4 Boiler changes

Dennis Brown. Gas Engineer

Tel: 01666 860119 Mobile: 07768 027860 BRITISH GAS CONTRACTOR

NC ^a

. Quickly usable You' ll be amazed how affordable it is

COMPUTER SUPPORT

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

REMOVALS & STORAGE 1.'

Ats &

t(FVIW

OPYS/Mfln

ra z iii Tel: (3 r ' '72888

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) 727307 Mob 07811 188564

Tel: 01793 772888

WWW.ABBEYMOVE.CO.UK

EMail: ashobbs@theashgroup.freeserve.co.uk

Fax: 01793 772444

Satellite TV Sky & digital terrestial

Tel: 01793 700018 Mobile: 0111 6236415

SKY

COMPUTER W ORK

owN A COMPUTER? Why not put it to work?

Home based opportunity Contact:

Mobile: 0781 6014363

www.learnasyouearn.uk.net

sales@sigmacomputersolutions.co.uk

or call 01793 706289

IRONING IRONING A CHORE?

/'\j of an>^^ ^`^ One-off, weekly, fortnightly or simply whenever! Pick up and delivery back to your front door the next day. Good Prices

Call Karen

tole! ^^f Ironing done in a smoke free enviroment at sensible rates

Mobile: 07752 020722

Call Jackie on 721878 or Donna on 721719

RUBBISH REMOVALS

SECURITY SYSTEMS

01793 341644

COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC RUBBISH DISPOSAL & HOUSE

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

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS

Tel: 01 793 633924

by Kas

or 07956 410981

AERIALS

For friendly EXPERT advice

LAS Heating for service, repair

AYE

Tel: 01793 702601 Mobile: 07774 943 783

Creaseless Ironing Services

and heating systems. Competitive rates. British Gas

CHRIS PAYNE

*: Storm damage

All work guaranteed

Don't get caught cold this winter!! and installation of all gas appliances 200216

AERIAL SERVICES

* Extra TV, telephone & electrical points

No call out charge

IRONING

31121

ABBEY MOVE

TV & FM aerials Extra satellite points Video & TV repairs Freeview installation Signal amplifiers

HEATING ENGINEER

Call Lee on 01793 877214

REMOVALS/STORAGE

• • • • •

& PROMPT on-site service

trained

® ^11,^

• Fully insured

local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 Email : clitf. whiteway@btintc rncL corn

GAS SERVICES

• Boilers

• Carpets. rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment

...call for your free estimate from you

call 01793 616170 for a free no obligation consultation

• Fires a fireplaces

itewa

AERIAL SERVICES Aerial & Television Se rv ices

You name it, we move it Quick and clean service Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm

Tel: 01793 772268

ssaib

Crown Security Burglar alarms Access controls CCTV • Fire alarms Installed, repaired, maintained 24 hour monitoring for police response

For details call Doug Marshall on 433999

SE TTO►t AIRPORT TRAVEL

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

AIRPORTS

Reliable travel for holiday makers Competitive prices

REPAIRS

I fJJ1p;'

direct Specialist airport transfer services by car, MPV or 8 seater minibus

APPLIA NCE

• Most

leading

Same day, local service wherever possible

ARCHITECTU RAL

B-K ARCHITECTURAL Complete design, plans, at planning service for New build

Washing Machines

brands • Guaranteed

repairs Same day service

Twin Tubs, etc. Member of Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repa i rs

Extensions Conversions

No call out charge • No VAT

Refurbishments For prompt service, tel: 321943

A SUDS

Tel: 725 000 I DOMESTIC HELP

Jusr Tim JoB Quality cleaning with pride and care

Commercial & Domestic Services Agency ARE YOU TOO BUSY TO CLEAN?' We offer: o^ • Regular house cleaning • Ironing • Gardening • Carpet cleaning • Also office cleaning service

For full details, call us on 01793 861112 (teVfax)

OFFICE SERVICES Office work getting you down? Contact Qwerty Office Services for:

• • • • • •

Copy typing

•

I DRAINS MG Lxicidm LD^

BLOCKED DRAINS CLEARED FAST • CCTV surveys • High pressure jetting • Pipe relining • Locally based - competitive rates • 24 hour call out • No call out charge

Tel: 01793 828882 OVEN CLEANING

ELECTRICAL SERVICES

I GARDEN SERVICES

Sw 4ett

ee seuece4'

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. DOMESTIC APPLIANCE SERVICE CENTRE 11 The Arcade, High Street

Grass cutting

Hedge trimming • • • • •

Regular, occasional or one-o ff Long grass no problem Clean, tidy work Sensible prices Odd jobs, fencing repairs. etc. Friendly, 7 day service

Wootton Bassett

Chris Reed Swindon 538839

Tel: 01793 854378

Mobile: 07702 285865

REMOVALS / PACKING / STORAGE DENNIS'S REMOVALS

LNC ;EAN<_ The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service I

Audio typing

THORNHILL IND ESTATE SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON SN3 4TA TEL: (01793) 828224 FAX : (01793) 828248

B'R

Curriculum vitaes Secretarial services Administration Payroll

•

Mailshots Faxing

Telephone answering

No job too big or too small!!

Tel: 01793 347968 Mobile 07713 640150

SKIP HIRE BASSETT Si. PS LTD J 2, 4 or 6 ton skips D Same day o ff road delivery 20 to 40 yard roll-on roll-off containers O Hire the grab lorry to pick up a pile of waste J Hardcore/crushed

concrete available Domestic, industrial or commercial

Tel: 01793 848

To book your Oven Clean call 01793 520362 We use caustic free cleaning products with a fresh solution each time. Hobs. extractors, microwaves and barbecue grills also undertaken

TV & VIDEO REPAIRSI GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE Free home estimates No call out charge * All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

Established over 30 years • UK & European domestic moves Container storage in our own on-site secure warehouse Professionally trained staff • Packing materials supplied Packing service available • Commercial removals & storage Archive storage & document retrieval Confidential shredding and disposal • Free Estimates

WEB DE SIGN/PC

WIN DOW CLEANING

2 013,pyn£ COnlpu73 nUJ SE2V3 CES LTD Established 1993

+ Fully Qualified Web Design + One-to-One PC Training + Internet & Email + Word & Excel + Digital Photography + Web Design & HTML + Competitive Hourly Rates Contact Alayne on 01793 875647 www.robaynecomputing.biz email: info@robaynecomputing.biz

All windows (domestic & commercial) Conservatories Fascias and cladding Also gutter clearing service Local, reliable and competitive Call Andy or Neil on 01793 875732 or 613489

46 The Link Magazine • November 2003 LEARN TO PLAY THE VIOLIN with Swindon Suzuki Strings

PIANO TEACHER Also available for functions. weddings, cocktail pianist Call Ian Winston on 01793 750702

Suitable for all ages 01793 700099 http.//www.mab,tgis.co,uk

Digital Cameras ,. PCs, Laptops & Accessories Specialising in supplying and sourcing pre-owned, refurbished & end of line

AMETHYST ^^^oo

Classic, Jazz exams, blues, Modern, Pop - in your own home

CRYSTAL & REIKI HEALING Julie Hopkins Crystal Healer & Reiki Master Tel: 01793 870109

iDV

The natural removal of unwanted hair from any part of the face or body , Also available: Facials and eyelash tinting

!PURE S

rflE (urrIM44 «u 0 4,1' London trained

®DISC SERVICES,,, We transfer anything onto DVD Disc - Cine Film, Video tape, Wedding Photos Phone for a leaflet or advice

mobile hair stylist Call Sue on 0779 6432700

Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758 H. 0. Bath PO Box 2079 Manvers Street. Bath BA1 3TJ

J [Lv3i

i rorn atfierapy • 4,ei 1^i Indian Read Massage Ear Canrf<ing St Andrews Ridge Area

To bookan appointment eaff Barbara on 07986042.366

www.pureessence.org . u k

Also PC Services Setup, spares, upgrades, tuition etc. Please telephone, fax or email with your requirements

5.D. Zlpkolsteiy

DECOTEX

Upholstery repairs c recovering from £ 18 Large range of materials or in your own Forfttriher details call 01793 871808

Painter & Decorator T: 01793 531201 M: 07747 747000 Fax: 01793 430774 Email: sales@amps-uk.com website: www.amos-uk.com

Specialist Artexing Tel: (01793) 791388 C L;3 C IA

Cleaning & Ironing Services Ironing from £12 per basket Cleaning from £13 per house Tel: 01793 875665 or 07780 625244

For Sale

Ladies bike, Triumph, 3 speed, good condition, £25. Tel. 485029

Child's desk with 3 drawers, pine veneer, £30. Tel: 872531

Pentax 115G compact camera, zoom 38 - 115 autofocus. flash, manual, as new. £45. Tel:

Double pushchair, £25. Rhode Gear child rear bike seat and carrier, £40. Tel: 791225

Carrier bag of boys clothes: 0 - 3 months & 3 6 months, excellent cond, £5 each. Tel: 879998

2 sets Stompa pine bedroom furniture: cabin beds including pull-out desk & cupboard unit: triple wardrobes, 3 drawer chests. £100 each set. Tel: 728027

Mothercare pine cot with natural fibre mattress, excellent condition, £65. Tel: 611818

Ivory silk wedding dress, size 10, veil, never worn. £375. Tel: 706193

Britax high low chair, removable tray, good condition, straps. £14. Tel: 481004

Snowboard boots, beige suede, size 39, £30. Snowboard with bindings, age 12, £45. Tel:

Britax Ranger booster seats. 2 @ £10 each. Trikes. 2 @ £10 each. Maclaren buggy. £15. Tel: 872716

01249 721460

Britax first stage car seat, vgc, £15 ono. Tel: 322003

Viper graphite golf clubs, full set, bag and trolley, all as new, £125. Tel: 421485

Britax first stage car seat with head support. vgc, £10 ono. Tel: 347622

Collectors electric train set. K-Line 0/027 gauge. new. still in boxes. £70 ono. Tel: 875470

Mothercare, brand new 2 in 1 pram, lilac and navy. £70. Tel: 723495

Hostess trolley (Royal) GC, £60 ono. Solid pine Welsh dresser, table & 4 chairs, sideboard display unit. £250. Tel: 07989 493449

Chicco 3 wheel pushchair. blue/red used twice, £50. Lindam door baby bouncer, £7. Tel: 07930

Delta Explorer Deluxe air exercise cycle, £40. Tel: 07950 946183

Stuart crystal wine glasses, boxed gift set of

429076

six, unused. Tel: 873598

Mamas & Papas pine cot bed, vgc. £50 ono.

Two pairs curtains, pink rose design on cream background, 66w x 721, tie backs and frill, as new. £12. Tel: 529025

Tel: 875470

Mamas & Papas, double buggy. as new, with hood. raincover, one cosytoes & sunshade,

from bi rt h. £310 new. accept £150 ono. Tel: 882610

Sturdy carrycot £15. 2 pram/crib mattresses, £5 each. Breast pump butt/mains, £10. Changing mat £3. Little Tikes rocking horse. £5. All vgc. Cot plus mattress. £10. Tel: 882610

Single duvet covers & pillow cases to match. several to choose from £5 each. Tel: 872531 Bunk bed, tubular steel in silver with ladders and mattress, attached desk underneath. separate metal futon that folds out into a single bed. 3 years old, £150. Tel: 07971 659604

Pine dresser. 5ft, £60. Pine table, 6ft, reduces to smaller round, & 6 chairs, £60. good condition. Tel : 870792 Office chair. grey. £15. Black uplighter with spotlight. £10. Pine dressing table with mirror, £15. Tel: 702468

Two oak frame settees. Old Charm, pink green design, £80. Tel: 887421 Three piece suite, dark blue with mahogany facings, vgc, £100. Tel: 486932 Mahogany wall unit, 1.75m. base unit: 4 cupboards & 1 drawer; top unit: integral lighting, drinks cabinet & glass door fronted display shelves, made by Morns furniture, £200. Tel: 07950 946183

Mahogany corner TV unit with single drawer ( matches wall unit above) £40. Tel: 07950 946183

Oval mahogany solid wood coffee table. Regency style, single pedestal with 4 claw feet, beautiful condition, 30" X 22", £25 ono. Tel: 433254

Mahogany solid wood front door with small stained glass window, excellent condition, 190cm x 83cm, £55. Tel: 881746

Double pine futon. navy mattress, vgc. £60

Double wardrobe, Ikea, excellent condition, £100. Hotpoint fridge and freezer, £40 each.

Pram, Maclaren, shopping tray, complete with harness, good condition, faces away, swivel wheels, raincover, sunshade, £90. Tel: 812750

ono. Tel: 872531

Tel: 875086

Pine table and four chair, £75. Ikea bathroom cabinet, free standing, £50. Tel: 729128

Tables for television, excellent condition, £5

Fireguard with extension, extends from 110cm to 152cm. good condition, boxed, £10. Stairgate with extension, excel condition, £10. Tel: 61 1818

Pine cabin bed with desk, chest & cupboard. £75. Large desk £25. Chest of drawers, £10. Tel: 881427

Microwave, Daewoo Autocook, large capacity. vgc. £40. Tel: 612500

Winnie The Pooh lampshade, 34cm, £7. Tel:

Pine headboard. 4'6", 3 months old. £25. Tel: 07775 925736

812750

Free rivate for Sale & Wanted ads , Send to: The Link, Papermakers House, Rivenhall Road, Westlea,

Name & Address (not for publication) L- - - -

each. Tel: 879505

Fridge freezer, Electrolux, separate motors, cream, good working order, buyer collects. Tel: 876187

877682

New HP computer cartridges. black 51626A. colour 51625A. £10, will split. Tel: 813162 Sony Playstation 1, 6 games including 4 x Tomb Raiders, 3 memory cards, £80. Tel: 705119

Sunbed canopy with facial booster, ad] height. good condition, can deliver. £99. Tel: 726906 Coal basket fire, two 19kg propane bottles, auto change over, value offers, buyer collects. Tel: 813162 Approx 900 new house bricks,'MellowAshridge' type, all offers considered. Tel: 875721 Mobility scooter Shoprider, red. excellent condition, 4 wheel, £750 ono. Tel: 762409 Electric mobility scooter, 4 wheel indoor/ outdoor use, joystick control, excellent condition, £750 ono. Tel: 762937 Set of wheel covers, 15" for Vectra or Astra, vgc. £15. Tel: 724544 Eldis Typhoon 1992. 4 berth, excellent condition. £4.000. Ladies ski jacket. 14/16. £30. Gloves £6. Tel: 871248 1.6 GL VW Polo dark red, colour, excellent family car, full service history, slight dent in offside wing. hence bargain price, £3.000 no offers. Tel: 487175 M reg red Micra. 27,000 miles, full tax, MOT, superb condition inside & out, £1,900 ono. Tel: 07811 710287

Vauxhall Cavalier SRI 2.0, 4 door saloon, 1992, a/w. PAS, c/locking, sunroof. 6 month tax, MOT, good cond. £600 ono. Tel: 07801 035478 L reg Rover 214Si, sun roof. AA breakdown cover incl, new tires. muffler, brakes in past 18 months, v economical, standard transmission. recent MOT, good cond, £1.000. Tel: 780021

Tumble dryer, Whirlpool. good working orde r . buyer collects, vented, no hose supplied. £65. no offers. Tel: 876474

Wanted

Two seater piano stool, mahogany. with storage space. approx 33" x 14". £80. Tel: 840527

Cleaner'helper, call for details. Tel: 724754

Single bed in vgc. Tel: 872531

Mobile phone - Sony J70, good as new. needs SIM card, original packaging, £40. Tel: 872282 (days) Buffet B10 clarinet with cleaning pull through, cork wax and reeds, sturdy secure case, ideal for beginner. £100. Tel: 07971 659604

Standard size glass door fronted beer fridge,

Acoustic guitar: hardly used, wooden. 6 string guitar with carry case, £30. Tel: 07971 659604

must be good condition. Tel: 881746 Knitter to knit 2 waist jackets for an elderly person. If you love to knit call 877165

To let

Saxophone Arbiter, superb condition, with

Double room. would suit student or professional person, near bus routes. quiet location, non-smoker, £75/wk. Tel: 873594

case. £500. Tel: 871537

Seaton Devon, luxury 2 bed house near

Large Antler pull-along suitcase. green, used

seafront. sleeps 4/5, parking space, nonsmoking. Tel: 875647

once. £30 ono. Tel: 347622

The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2003

Pregnancy crisis centre launched A local charity which helps people facing crisis pregnancies has stepped up its activities and opened a support centre at 35 Milton Road. Known as Swindon Pregnancy Crisis Centre, it offers free, unbiased and confidential counselling to anyone who is facing an unex-

Back pain, depression, fatigue, stress and many other ailments can be relieved by REFLEXOLOGY & REIKI This season's new make-up collection, the latest anti-ageing skin care. expert beauty advice and free hostess gifts. Just add friends and your favourite drink' To host a party. call Rachael on 877870

For further information call Simone Campbell M.I.I.R. (Reg'd) 017 9 3 5 114 1 6

pected pregnancy and does not

know what to do. Centre leader Maggie Hartridge explained that trained pregnancy crisis advisors are available to talk on the telephone or for private consultations by appointment. "People who come to us for help need time and space to make their decision. So often someone faced with this situation feels pressured to make a quick decision. We provide a listening ear and helpful information about pregnancy and the options available. We can also provide free pregnancy tests." The centre can also help when someone suffers distress or anxiety after losing a baby through miscarriage, abortion or cot death, even if this happened years previously. Centre trustee and treasurer Ian Donaldson from Grange Park said GPs from Swindon were supporting the centre and funding had been received from Zurich Financial Services, the Co-op, and Barclays Bank. "We receive regu-

O^eS$;OnaI COghse''^O

Self development for women at 23 Bath Road, Swindon The Mayor of Swindon coun Derek Benfield opened the SPCC in October, with Joanna Thompson, director of Care Centres Network UK and centre coordinator Maggie Hartridge

lar donations from individual supporters, which help keep us going, and these three organisations have made generous grants to enable us to obtain and equip these super new premises." The centre has two counselling rooms and is staffed on Mondays 9.30am to 11.30am and 6pm to 8pm, Wednesdays 10am to 2pm, and Fridays 9.30am to 11.30am. Call 617799, an answering machine is available when the centre is not staffed. www.spcc-uk.org

Mob: 0781 788 9260

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH

\6orsley Road Cdr

SUNDAYS 10.30AM WINNER'S LOUNGE

SWINDON TOWN EC For details visit our website at www.sfc-uk.org, call Nigel on 526130 or e-mail: info_west@sfc-uk.org

building with people Come and join us

Sunday at I Oam & 6.3Opm For further information of other meetings ring: 873050. call into the Church office or visit www.freshbrook.org Jesus said: -I have come that YOU might have LIFE and have it in its fulness"

A Newfrontiers Cltarch

North church administrative change Patricia Strange is no longer the administrator for Blunsdon St Andrew's Church and arrangement of baptisms and weddings should be addressed to the Reverend Ruth Cram on 701353. Mrs Strange said, "I would like to extend my very best wishes to all couples and families whose baptisms and weddings I have helped to arrange over the last three years."

Sunday Worship 10.30am \ NS

Conference to discover the great whodunnit

y vange j, 0 X0

Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Greenmeadow Prima ry School

The Swindon branch of the World Development Movement host the regional WDM conference this year on the theme: Debt - Whodunit to the World's Poor? It takes place at the Friends Meet- Campaigns. ing House, Eastcott Hill on SaturThe afternoon will be taken up day 22 November,l0am until4pm. with workshops on related issues. The morning sessions will hear The conference is open to WDM talks from Swindon MPs Julia members and also interested memDrown and Michael Wills as well bers of the public. To find out more as Pete Hardstaff, WDM Head of call Kate Nash on 704154.

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

For God loved the world

so much that He gave His only Son. John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221

Dorcan Sports Complex 533763 Croft Sports Centre 526622 Contact your local centre for details: Broome Manor 495761 County Ground 514401 The Rec, Highworth 762602 Oasis Leisure Centre 445401 Health Hydra 465630 Link Centre 445566 Haydon Centre 706666