November 2004 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

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caretaker says farewell Reg retires after long service at two West Swindon primary schools page 2 Reg Browning is presented with a book of memories by Brook Field pupils Lauren James and Luke Neves

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2 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Reg the railway man retires from two schools A West Swindon school caretaker has been proclaimed a'legend' for thousands of children who knew him during their primary school days. a move he had not considered unit — Reg Browning retired on 8 Octotil encouraged by Toothill School jI ber after 17 years as caretaker at headteacher Richard Jackson. Brook Field, Shaw and also jointly "I used to help their football team for Salt Way School in Middleleaze, I T7 Z and got on well with the children," / which he looked after for 15 years said Reg. "When the Brook Field j 4 :>. -the first caretaker for both schools School job was advertised I thought since they opened. I could fit in. But, having spent all Salt Way headteacher Sue those years in the railway works, I Butcher said children often rememhad to mind my Ps & Qs; and I ber their school caretaker because wasn't sure about working with of their constant presence and for all those women. But we got on being the person who sorts out the very well and I've really enjoyed problems. "Reg has been a special working with all the staff and the person for Salt Way and Brook children. $ Field, always happy and ready "I often see youngsters who used with a smile, even on the gloomito attend the schools, some are , est days. taller than me, the first ones are in "He's never ever been late, even their early 20s now. Billie Piper at in the worst weather, and has kept Brook Field was somebody who ' ^" both schools running smoothly. stood out before she became well ,' He'll be remembered as a legenknown. She was always a live-wire dary figure by all who passed and many of us thought she would through them." ' _ do something special." Reg and his wife Valerie were Valerie continues to work at one of the first group of people a Zurich and Reg plans to take on ! who moved to West Swindon, armore of the housework, whilst riving in Markenfield, Toothill in pursuing his railway modelling 1977, a year after housing develhobby. They hope to make an ex1W opment had started. He believes tended trip to Canada in the not they are one of the last couples still too distant future. in the same street. At the time he Reg was presented with books 'I'1 was an engineer in the railway of memories and photographs by , works until it closed down in the children at both schools and also mid-1980s, makinghim redundant gift tokens and an engraved beer after 30 years 'inside.' tankard from Salt Way. Reg Brou,nin, at ca farewell assennbly at Salt Way on 11 October Becoming a school caretaker was

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The Link Magazine • November 2004 3

Wedding couple join hundreds for honeymoon half marathon Two eager athletes started their honeymoon by joining 1,500 runners for the Swindon's half marathon and fun run on Sunday 17 October. Link Centre Gym instructor Caroline Painter was given away by her eight year old son Harrison to Andy Rhodes at a wedding ceremony held at Blunsdon House Hotel on 15 October, in front of 200 guests, many of whom had also been in training for the race. Caroline said she had been surprised by the number of people across the town who had commented on the photo and story that appeared in the October Link. "Friends from all over Swindon saw it; I didn't realise the magazine reached out so far and people I barely know have been saying hello." • Caroline's Link Centre gym ran the half-marathon, Brian Gardner, Neil colleague Brian Gardner took Montgomery and Dave Maine second place in the half marathon, having led most of the way within sight of the finishing tape. until British Olympic marathon • The spirit of Kelly Holmes comes runner Matt O'Dowd passed him to Greendown. See page 32.

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Swindon Council has relaunched its web site with more pages of information and services bookable online. And to attract more people to of running council services." www.swindon.gov.uk , there is a He added that the site was as'what creature' competition run- sessed as one of the 15 most imning until 17 November which in- proved out of 462 local governvolves accessing a number of pages ment sites in 2003 and he was looking forward to the next report. for the answers. The site now allows residents to Library services manager David make payments on-line, for exam- Allen said the internet had opened plehousingrentandparkingfines, up awareness of libraries. "As a as well as booking social halls for small example of how the web is events such as a party or wedding expanding our services, across the reception and reserving or renew- borough we take about 2,600 book ing library books. Holders of the reservations manually every Swindoncard can also book activi- month. This number rose by 600 in ties like swimming and golf. July, a month after we made the Council web site manager Ross reservations service available Kitchener said there are now over online." If you don't have a computer, or 3,000 pages of information which can be accessed. "We've increased access to the internet, the People's the transactional capability of the Network computers are available site to make council services more free of charge in Swindon librarconvenient to residents. Making ies. There is a free tuition course on payments online reduces the cost 17 November. See page 31. Site launch at the West Swindon library, from left, Councillor Jemima Milton, lead member for Environment and Property, librarian Tracy Dowling, site manager Ross Kitchener, Terry King, Delta Tennis Centre seniors

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4 The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2004

Now is the time to work together for a better town Swindon is at a crossroad of development Alan Hayward of the Swindon Civic Trust asks, should it get bigger and will this make it better? One thousand people of all ages able. Do we need more? took part in the STOP march to the Yet Swindon has been desigCivic Offices on 5 June - residents nated a 'Principal Urban Area' for concerned about the plans to site a the South West Region. Did anyuniversity, business park and body ask you? This means the town houses next to Coate Water; Swinwill take most of Wiltshire's midon people opposed to building grant population over the coming on the Front Garden; people from decade. West Swindon objecting to the Recently the town has been sugbuilding of a football stadium on gested as a'Rapid Expansion Area' Shaw Forest Country Park; those to accommodate thousands more supporting the restoration of the houses than already agreed. This Mechanics' Institution as a comis completely horrifying. munity and cultural centre for the Do you want to live in a vast conurbation? Most people moved whole town; and members of Swindon Civic Trust who agree with here because it is an oasis in a sea of green countryside. How dare these campaigns. anybody suggest that the key qualThis must say something about ity of life feature be filled up with the current situation in our town. brick and concrete, destroying one Why do we have so many of these of the main reasons for being here. groups concerned about planning It is time for the Swindon camin Swindon? Surely people must STOP campaigners on 5 June, fronted bit, from left, Martha Parry of the New be motivated to protest because these Mechanics'Trust, TerryKing oftheFront Garden Action Group, Swindon South MP paigns to speak out with a comissuesareinterlinked- andresidents Julia Drown, Alan Hayward, John Momriott, chair, Swindon Civic Trust Âťon voice: to steer away from this feel they are not being listened to. rometer of Britain, has to be at the panies are honing their efficiency property developer driven dash resulting in a place that none of us There is a pervasive 60's mental- forefront of accepting the new and need fewer employees. Where do we go now? I would want to live in any longer. ity within some institutions in world order of offshore call cenThe Swindon Civic Trust is takSwindon which believe that there tres, Far East manufacturing, home suggest that we need a boomin g is still a chance that the 21st cen- working, tele-commuting and the knowledge and innovation based ing a co-ordinating role to get all local economy, supported by true the groups around the table and to tury equivalent of Intel, Anchor internet. Foods, Nationwide, Readers DiJust look at our town. Manufac- service industries which will em- devise a strategy and action plan which will keep our town and our gest, Hambro Life eta] still want to turing (excluding Honda) has all ploy many of the town's people. move here. Well, sorry - this is not but gone, note the decline of SwinA university is key to this future way of life the way we want it, to and this is why Swindon Civic look to a future which will be going to happen. The world has don Pressings. changed and Swindon, as a baThe service and financial com- Trust has campaigned for a town brighter - and as green - for our centre location instead of an out-- children. post of the University of Bath at What's your view? Mail The Coate Water. Link with your comments. Swindon has a huge stock of unused and disused industrial and For more information on office premises, as well as un- Swindon as a Rapid Expansion touched development land. Eve- Area go to: rybody notices the To Let and For www.southwest-ra.gov.uk/swra/ Sale boards around the borough. ourwork/consultationregister/ Not surprising when there is 89,203 index.shtml sq m of offices, 247,156 sq m of and www.odpm.org.uk on the industrial property, and over 160 Government's plans for 'sustainacres of development land available communities.'

the link Magazine Published by

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Swindon Publications Ltd. Call Jenni Fowler on (01793)872531 Papermakers House, Westlea advertising@swindonlink.com Swindon SN5 7BD Booking deadline: 8 November Tel: (01793) 872282 Fax: (01793) 878189 "The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. e: publisher@swindonlink.com It i s 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: 101793) 872282 Swindon commenced in January 1994." The contents of The Link are protected Editorial copy date for by copyright. Use of advertisements in December: 10 Novober printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has Published: 27 November sought permission. Articles and photoCopy for January: 10 December graphs require similar authority 3istered in England 8 Wales. No: 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street. Hungedord, Berks. RG17 0DL. Printed by pop. Teltorc

The Link Magazine - November 2004 5

1,250 more houses proposed for west of Swindon Plans for university at Coate and 1,800 houses get green li ght Government inspectors have backed plans to develop green belt land next to Coate Water, and have stated there should be more housing development to the western side of the town. Saunders of Friends of the Earth, Bath University want to build a said, "it's the most devastating campus between the Coate Water x ! Country Park, the Great Western , " thing that could happen to Swin,r don, to its environment, to its hisHospital and the M4 - having been = • _ r; ' r tory and to the most beautiful part offered land by Redrow and Perof the whole town." simmon Homes provided they can The inspectors do not agree with build 1,800 houses there. local planners that development The independent inspectors' reshould take place to the east of view ofthe Swindon and Wiltshire A419, suggesting that this should structure plan to 2016 supports the be part of a regional review of deview that Swindon should be the -_^. ^, '` •-: velopment strategy beyond 2016. 'Principal Urban Area' (PUA) for — dC,q, e Instead they want to see land growth in the county. Vov ~^ found for the 1,250 houses in the They say the building of a camstructure plan allocation to the pus, 1,800 houses and a business ' west of the PUA. Where these parkis appropriate and providesa might be built will be subject to j good basis for development over detailed studies by planners from the plan period of 1996-2016. Swindon and Wiltshire which are ""' • Swindon Council leader coun , unlikely tobe completed until well Mike Bawden welcomed the reinto next year. port."Itisgoodtohaveaclearway The Save Coate campaign group is calling on all those who want to People living in West and North forward on the site for the Univer- save the rural surroundings of Coate Water Country Park to come Swindon, as well as Lydiard sity of Bath in Swindon, but this is together to create a giant chain of decorated cardboard hands around Millicent, Purton, Cricklade and only the first step of a very long the lake on Saturday 13 November. 2pm. Draw a line around a hand on card, such as the inside of a cereal Wootton Bassett, can only specuterm project. "The university still needs a de- packet, cut it out, write a short dedication of why you love Coate Water late on possible sites. Hundreds of houses may be coming to all or cision from the Government on on the blank side - with a name - and send it to Join Hands Around Coate, Marsh Cottage, Wanborough SN4 OAR. They will be photocopsome of these areas. funding." Swindon and Wiltshire planning The announcement has come as ied and included in a book of rememberance. Alternatively take your hands along to Coate on 13 November and authorities have now to accept the a bitter blow to campaigners tryinspectors' recommendations. ing to protect Coate Water. Jean join it with the others.

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The Link Magazine • November 2004

Mechanics' goes to public inquiry

Let us Cre'8 a new u 1

In the November 2003 Link central area councillor David Nash criticised Swindon Council's planning committee supported by its officer forgiving outline permission to a commercial developer to turn the derelict Mechanics' Institute in the town centre into a hotel, luxury flats, offices and perhaps a casino - right in the middle of a conservation area that could become part of a world heritage site. Over the last year the Government has moved to take the decision out of Swindon's hands. Coun Nash comments. In October, we saw two new events regarding the Mechanics'. First, Swindon's Planning Committee decided to let the owners have permission to develop the southern end of the building, the Reading Room in particular, as a business centre, with some accommodation above - despite representations from me and fellow central area councillor Michael Dickinson, plus a variety of inter-

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ested heritage groups opposed to the development. The second was the decision by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) to call in the plans for the rest of the building — that glass monstrosity included. Let's assume for a moment that the plans are rejected by the Government — what would we like to see happen with the building? I have to confess that this is a tricky issue. On the one hand, I would love to find a way to return the building to the sorts of activity that made it such an integral part of the growth of Swindon. On the other, the owner has already invested a significant amount of cash into urgent works and would expect to make some money on the property, which means a commercial activity of some sort, such as the hotel.

the biggest stages anywhere from London to Bristol and the auditorium could accommodate traditional theatre as well as cabaretstyle acts. Imagine being able to enjoy live entertainment whilst good food is served to your table. 2. A young people's facility. There is a lot of complaint about young people 'hanging around.' The Mechanics' (or at least some of its space) could provide a number of youth projects to help give younger residents a focus for their energies. 3. Adult education. The original Reading Room was used by railway workers to improve their minds. What better testimony to our past than to equip the Reading Room for the future as an IT learning zone for old and young alike. Throw in some refreshments and you have the basis of an internet cafe too.

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Whenever I think of the MechanIn an ideal world, and assuming that ownership, restoration capi- ics', I don't look at the building tal and ongoing revenue to main- and want to restore it in every tain the fabric of the building could detail - frankly some of it is not be sorted out, here are just a few of that pretty! However, I do believe that the the things I'd like to see the Mespirit of our ancestors can live on chanics' used for: 1. An alternative theatre venue. in the way that the building is used. There is no facility in Swindon to Now that's something worth reoffer out of the ordinary live enter- storing. And that won't happen if we have a glass monstrosity tainment. The original theatre had one of erected as a hotel.

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8 up in Australia and the area seemed so closed-in. But it's a brilliant place to bring up a family; shops and schools are within walking distance, and the opening of the library at the North Swindon Centre was great. "My children love it, they can just pop out to meet friends close

The November 1994 Link front page featured the Scotford family who made history on 21 October by being the first to move into Swindon's Northern Expansion. It was predicted that the planned 10,000 houses would be built in 15 years. However only half have been completed, so development could be ongoing for another decade. The first phase, Abbey Meads, plus others close-by at Ash Brake, St Andrew's Ridge and Groundwell are finished whilst house building continues to the west at Priory Vale. So, has the first decade lived up to the public relations puff of offering 'a new lifestyle for the 21st Century?' Earlier this year, the Abbey Meads Community Association dissolved, perhaps reflecting the fact that the area had reached a degree of maturity and no longer needed an organisation to represent a developing community. MikeWarr, right, and his wife Jean moved from the town centre to retire, attracted by the plans for 'designer villages' and the convenience of a new house.

by.

As the long serving secretary to that the association had served its the community association he said purpose, people had moved on and the first people were frustrated that dissolution was inevitable. Many the fanciful claims of developers of the issues were taken up by were not forthcoming fast enough. Swindon councillors and indeed "The association got together to the commi ttee's first chairman Ian demand improvements and deliv- Dobie was elected to the Haydon ery of services by developers and Wick ward and is currently the Swindon Council. council's deputy leader. Rev Brian Sweetman, Minister "Roads, pavements, footpaths and open spaces were at Christ the Servant Abbey Meads, not completed fast says people have much to be thankenough. The developers ful for. "It is a lovely place to live in would pass on queries for all ages; the shrubs by the side to the individual build- of the roads are ers or the other way cut on a reguaround and adoption lar basis, and at seemed to take forever. night the lightThere are areas of open ing makes it spaces and probably look like Dissome roads yet to be ney World. adopted." "There are He acknowledged quite a lot of

"The uncertainty about secondary schools has been very frustrating; many parents are cynical about Swindon Council. Right now we're applying for a secondary school place and are even thinking about moving house if we cannot get the right one." For the majority of the population the broken promises about secondary schools is the greatest failure of North Swindon. Whilst Abbey Meads and Catherine Wayte primary schools, and since last September Bridlewood, have all performed well, the failure to provide a local secondary school has resulted in much criticism.

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For many years The Link reported Swindon Council's commitment to opening a secondary school in 2003. But cock-ups over the first PFI bid to Government to fund new schools followed by the education department's failure by Ofsted has only piled on the anger. Some parents took matters into their own hands, found places at Farmer's School in Fairford and organised their own transport. Now some 150 children travel to a neighbouring education authority. The second PFI bid was successful and work is about to start on seven primary and secondary schools, including a new Hreod Parkway which should be ready for September 2006. But in another blow to parents, because of intake numbers, the new school at the Priory Vale campus will not open until September 2007, even though it could be ready a year earlier. On balance most people like livenough. ing in the Abbey Meads area. The "Christ the Servant is thriving challenge for the next ten years is and the spiritual life is blossom- how will a maturing community respond to the increasing requireing." For Helen Prowting of Green- ments of all the primary school wich Close, moving to Abbey children who will grow into teenMeads was a shock. "I was brought agers. bicycle tracks are well used and appreciated and the blackberries in the hedges are really lovely to pick. "It is such a shame that there is not enough space for pre-school children; the church is well used but cannot accommodate all the requests by parents wanting to start new groups. "There are lots of other groups using the church and the community primary school - the scouts, guides, a slimming club, junior football teams, and many other activities. On Sunday evening the North Swindon Baptist Church meets at the school. "We are blessed with commercial facilities at Abbey Meads village centre and the North Swindon Centre, yet have no bank and only one Post Office, which is not authorised to deal with motor tax or passports. For an area growing to 10,000 houses, this is not good

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Future of education in the West to be discussed at next area forum A meeting of West Swindon residents and the eight Swindon Borough councillors representing the three wards covering the area next meets on 8 November, 7.30pm, in the Link Centre. The first Area Forum meeting in Shaw Forest Country Park. centre and education and commu- tions for the delivery of education September was attended by about Councillor Nick Martin said he nity developments in West Swin- and social services, which could see schools and community facili40 people who discussed with the was encouraged by interest in the don. councillors and also council offic- first meeting and hoped this will Coun Gary Perkins, cabinet lead ties rationalised and restructured. ers the problems of flooding in be sustained, member for education, said the "I would like to start a debate at Westlea, safer routes to school in Items on the agenda for 8 No- forthcoming Children Bill and the community level on the issues beShaw, new play areas in Toothill vember includes progress on the Government's desire for extended fore the council in advance of forand Freshbrook and the future of refurbishment of Toothill village use of schools had major implica- mal discussion at cabinet level."

Grants available for groups in Haydon parish The Haydon Wick Fund, which offers grants to voluntary bodies that benefit people living in the Haydon Wick area, is inviting applications for its next round of decisions. Applications should be submit- Haydon Artists' missioner and Ranger Leader said tedby19Novemberforconsidera- Society; The the Haydon Wick group is fairly lion in early January. The fund Young at Hearts new and are overjoyed with the was established from the reserves Over 60s Club grant. "Up until now the Rangers of the now dissolved Hayden Wick and Hayden have been unable to camp indeCommunity Association and is WickRangerstopendently and realise their ambimanaged by the Community Foun- wards the purtions. Camping is one of the actividation for Wiltshire & Swindon. chase of camping ties that brings the girls together Grant decisions are made by a equipment. irrespective of background or exam panel comprising local residents The Rangers results. It provides a chance to gain who are former trustees of the as- are the senior teamwork and social skills as well sociation. members of j as giving them a grounding in baA wide range of activities can be guiding, aged , sic survival skills." supported, but the fund concen- between 14 and She added that Blacks Leisure in trates on supporting projects in- 18, who work tog Swindon had provided a genertended to make the most differ- wards chal `. ous discount which stretched the ence to the quality of life. In the lenges and corn£500 award to over £700. first round of awards, grants of munity service Details of how to apply for a around £500 were made to the projects. grant can be obtained from Jill Eldership of Emmanuel United Jacqueline Dyke orJen Wildblood at the CornReformed Church; The Fox and Rylatt-Connock, Jacqueline Rylatt-Connock, with some of the equipment munity Foundation on 01380 purchased by Haydon Wick Rangers Hounds youth cricket club; District Corn729284.

The Link Magazine • November 2004 11

Haydon Wick twins through art Three hundred pupils from the five primary schools in Haydon Wick have produced some splendid felt panels to mark the links being established between the parish and the community of La Garenne-Colombes, a suburb located a few miles from the centre of Paris. And not to be outdone by the signs, using over 100 different col- mary schools and groups since interested in finding out more is 1999 on projects which include invited to the next twinning meetyoungsters, members of the ours of pure Merino wool. Hayden Wick Over 60s Club have The project was co-ordinated by stained glass windows, tapestries, ing on Wednesday 17 November, made a similar piece which will be local community artist Susan Carr. block paintings, banners, murals, 7.30pm, in the council offices in Thames Avenue. "The children involved reall y en- mosaics and 3D art. sent to La Garenne. To contact Susan Carr about Many of Susan's community The panels were displayed at joyed working on this project and the North Swindon Library dur- learning the new skill of felt mak- projects have been sponsored by community art commissions, call ing the last three weeks of October ing and I think the work reflects the Hayden Wick Parish Council. her on 725757. The parish council is co-ordinating and made a striking display. Each this," she said. Susan, who lives in Hayden the efforts to develop the links with school produced a panel of over 60 Tr y it a t Peatmoor squares based on their own de- Wick, has worked with local pri- the French community. Anybody

Community School

Some of the artists who

Fencing A 6 week course for chil-

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sion to the community through felt. Back, Jean Warr, Pat Cutting, Susan Carr, parishcouncillor Phil Eagles responsiblefor

years 5 & 6) starting on Friday 5 November, 4pm - 5pm. Cost £12. Spanish An opportunity for children aged 7 - 11 years to learn the basics using fun games and activities. Sessions on Friday 12, 19 and 26 November, 5pm - 6pm. Cost £11.25. Sessions are planned to continue in January. ClubBase This is a dance based fun session for all abilities who want to learn the moves from chart, pop and club music. Seven weeks from 4 November for ages 6 to 8 years from 5pm - 5.45pm; 9 to 11 years from 5.45pm - 6.45pm. Over 50's coffee morning Thursday 4 November, 10am - 11.30am. For details call the community office on 881613.

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Longed for baby is already in the family album When Lewis Jack arrives at the end of October, he will be much loved and will also be a well documented baby. Hanlon to cope they had been His parents Lee and Emma with the demand given. "We Underdown from Haydon Wick for their state-ofhave friends were successful in February in their the-art baby who had to go first IVF attempt, after 7 years of scanning service. to London to trying for a baby. Parents regishave the same They have a picture of the fertitered with the scan I had in lised egg before it was implanted surgery can have Swindon. The in Emma's womb during the IVF the scan done doctors and procedure in Oxford, and under free of charge bescanning staff the care of Dr Crouch at Taw Hill tween 22 and 34 at Taw Hill are Medical Centre, Lee and Emma weeks or pregvery supporthave a collection of amazing 3D nancy and are ive." scans of Lewis taken to monitor provided with a The couple turned down the lights and put on his progress. CD of their baLee said he burst into tears when soft music; it took a moment to get have also visby's pictures. he first saw Lewis. "The staff used to what we were looking at, ited the Great Parents regisbut when Lewis turned his head to Western Hostered with other look at us, I was totally gone. We pital where practices are able have black and white scans from they are planThe local specialist to access the his first few months, but the detail ning a water service privately. birth for Lewis of the 3D scans are amazing." Lee and Emma ready to receive For details of Emma said they registered with who is due on Lewis, left, into the world the 3D scanning the Taw Hill practice when they 28 October. The Taw Hill practice recently services an d more pictures, go to lived in Ash Brake and had been very pleased with the care and help appointed Shirely Legge and Shane www.babyscan.co.uk • Wheelchairs — all types Scooters — all types Practice reopens in permanent home New & Used With military precision the Taw Hill Medical Practice moved from its second temporary building into Rise/recline chairs purpose built accommodation at the village centre, reopening on 25 October. Proper service Built for 12,000 patients, the staff to ensure a smooth transition • The Sanctuary sexual assault Home visits medical centre has ten consulting and continuous service to patients. clinic. The suite of rooms will Shoff room & (CS! ore, at Pam and Norman Hibbins were named after Dame Elizabeth rooms, three treatment rooms and Pinkney Park, Sherston two of the very first, joining the Neville, the recently retired Chief two operating theatres. Malmesbury Dr Peter Crouch said he appre- practice when it started in Septem- Constable of Wiltshire, who was a supporter of the pioneering work ciated the hard work put in by the ber 1999. 01666 - 840060 Pam said, "we are so lucky to to ease the trauma of sexual ashave such a wonderful buildin g saultand subsequentexamination. and a friendly team of doctors and • The Julia Drown Ultra Sound support staff. We have thought of Suite, for pregnant mothers. moving house but they are a good • The Michael Wills Patient Edureason for staying in Taw Hill." cation Centre. The whole of the North Swin- • The Simon Clinic for vasectomy don area falls within the practice procedures. catchment area. New patients are A gynaecological clinic and a deralways welcome. matology clinic will also be located The building will be home for there. several town wide medical faciliwww. tawhillsu rgery.nhs.uk ties: BALMM N Cheers, Tow Hill staff and patients welcorrre the new medical centre

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14 The Link Magazine • November 2004 T

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The area, large enough for up to ten children to work, will have glass walls decorated by children's art work on the theme of shapes. Because the white walls high in the atrium will be inaccessible when the pod is put up, headteacher Terri Peacock commissioned Peatmoor parent Julie Fordham, above, to paint a striking mural. Working from an aerial platform donated by HSS Plant Hire, Julie, who lives in Sparcells, has created a large colouful piece in the style of Kandinsky. She set up a business in August decorating themed bedrooms for children. She can be contacted on 0777 6047720. Calendars for sale The Peatmoor Typeface Gang gifted and talented group have set up a company to market three calendars based on children's artwork, another featuring children at the school, and a third with photographs linking Peatmoor and Dihlabeng, its partner school in South Africa. These will be available at the end of November from the school.

Connecting with partners

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Teachers from Peatmoor Primary School and Greendown School in Grange Park are travelling to Clarens in South Africa during the half term week to build contact with local schools. Peatmoor will be developing their long standing links with Dihlabeng School by helping to set up a computer suite and Greendown teachers will be visiting Moraiteng senior school.

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If spelling, apostrophes and grammar are holding you back, then pop into a literacy class. And if ratios set you reeling or percentages put you in a panic, then there is no better place to help sort out those gremlins but the Penhill Learning Centre. Managed by Solomon Training place to stay on a par with the Ltd., on offer are not just basic computer education children are courses. The learning centre has receiving in school by taking an just become a Learndirect Centre, ECDL (European Computer Drivwith over 400 courses available, ing Licence) or CLAIT (Computer ranging from languages, to all as- Literacy and Information technolpects of IT and management. ogy) qualification. Enquiries are also welcomed Director Tania Jones said the centre features new computers and from employers who feel employa range of multimedia equipment. ees would benefit from taking lit"Anyone who comes along will eracy, numeracy or IT skills courses benefit from traditional IT courses under the Government sponsored as well as shorter 'special interest' free2learn initiative which proworkshops like digital photogra- vides free training, and also wage phy or producing newsletters. You compensation if eligible. The Penhill Learning Centre is can learn to surf the internet or set up an e-mail account. You can also open Tuesday and Thursday practice your driving test theory 9.30am to 9pm, Wednesday 9.30am questions or do crosswords." to 3.30pm; Friday and Saturday She added that people looking 9.30am to 12noon. Call Linda Stone at the Learning for a career change would do well in discovering the range of courses Centre on 704931 for further inforon offer and the centre is an ideal mation.

The Link Magazine â€˘ November 2004 15

School makes Euro connections Shaw's Brook Field School again welcomed teachers as part of the European Union Comenius Project which aims to promote a broader outlook amongst children and teachers. Brook Field has been involved impressed by the quality of diswith Comenius for five years and plays and the technology availis now linked with a second group able in the classroom. Ilonio Suonio of schools - currently in Belgium, said, "there is artwork in every corner, the exhibitions in the classFinland and Spain. Headteacher Roger Nicholas rooms and around the school are said teachers from the schools had beautiful." Jan Luyten, headteacher of met up in different countries to compare and discuss work and to Lebbeke School, outside Brussels, study classroom techniques. Each said the education content was school has created boxes of re- similar, but the way teaching is sources containing games, songs, organised is different. "We have a pictures and food so that classes in more traditional approach. The partner schools can sample life in children here express themselves another country. very well and the work of each Children also have a big part to class is shared in assemblies a lot play in the exchanges with books more. We are impressed by all the of written and art work circulated computers in the schools and also to each school, plus guides describ- the computer linked white boards ing their home towns complete used by the teachers for instrucwith tourist information and pho- tion. "At Brook Field we see teaching tographs about school life, culture, sport and leisure. They exchange and learning which brings together the head, the heart and the hand. e-mails and keep school diaries, "The benefits of these exchanges Our system means that we are still are enormous," said Mr Nicholas. trying to put all these things into The children get a first hand expe- action; our visit to England is inrience of life beyond their own valuable in learning these methtown by presenting their work and ods." All the teachers were enthusiastalking to teachers from other countries and discovering more about tic about the Comenius contact. children elsewhere. The scheme is "We have so much to learn by also very important for the profes- working together across Europe," said Chris De Vos. "You don't lose sional development of staff. The visiting teachers were very your culture; we are all enriched."

With Jon Stowe r s Year 6 class at Brook Field, from Belgium Jan Luyten, Curis De Vos, Ezty Callaert. From Finland Ilona Suonio, Pair e i Rimplainen. From Spain Custodio Allende and Isabel Ougulera

Le Club Francais pour les grands et les petits Children as young as three are learning French and enjoying every moment of it through Le Club Francais. Anna-Kate Fuller will be launching new clubs in schools and leisure centres in Swindon in the New Year. She said, "learning French at a young age is all about having fun, whilst giving children confidence and enthusiasm for the language. Young children are less inhibited about reproducing foreign sounds and are like sponges absorbing a new language almost as easily as learning their mother tongue." Anna-Kate will also be starting Le Club Francais pour les Grands aimed at making language learning a relaxing and enjoyable hobby. Both day-time and evening courses are planned. For details call Anna-Kate on 01285 740196 or mail: akfuller@leclubfrancais.com

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Kumon West Swindon Centre Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall Call Richard Bell on 01285 711170 Centre open 4.00pm to 6.00pm Mondays and Thursdays For a'.most 50 years, thence, around the world have benefited cone studying the Kumon maths and language prog-a tines. 45.000 children of all ages ant abilities are currently enrolled at study cenves throughou*. the UK.

16 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Nursery not to be left out The October Link featured the first ever picture of children at the newly opened St Francis Church of England School in Taw Hill, taken on the first day of term, and also the morning nursery class. We were not able to include the afternoon nursery class, so here are the first children with nursery teacher Georgina Hayward, centre, and nurser y nurse Celia Shore.

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Moredon open morning Moredon Primary School holds an open morning on 16 November, 9.30am to 11am in the nursery class. Parents with children who will be three by 31 August2005 are invited to visit the nursery, meet the staff and book a place to start in September 2005.

Playgroup places Acorn Pre-School at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Village Centre, has places for children aged 3 to 5 years. For details call Julia Miller on 07776 187314.

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Delta correction Last month's Link featured the Tuesday and Thursday morning Ladies' Tennis sessions at Delta Tennis Centre and stated that there is a free creche. This is not the case, there is a fee and 11am. No equipment or partfor childcare. However there is a ner is necessary. These will be arfree cup of coffee for anybody who ranged on the day, as well as tuicomes along to see what the ses- tion if needed. For details call 445555 or go to sions are like. The group meets between gam www.swindon.gove.uk/delta

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The Link Magazine • November 2004

Family information centre more important than ever Swindon's Children's Information Service has become an essential feature of family life since it opened five years ago and is set to become even more important with the introduction of new legislation.

Staff welcomed parentsandcarers to an open morning on 2 October at the new CIS office in Theatre Square with many children dressed up as book and film characters to mark National Book Week. Centre manager Annette Palmer said the service had grown hugely over the last five years. "We reto about 1,000 enquiries in our first year; this year the number is likely to be about 8,000 from parents and carers, children and young people, and also employers who need assistance, for example with provision of childcare vouchers. The informa-

tion about child care choices in Swindon is free and covers every aspect of childcare - from preschool and school, to health services, special educational needs and disability, as well financial assistance, sport, arts, crafts and entertainment. "The recent Government Green Paper ape' 'Every Child Matters and the forthcoming Children Bill sees information as a key element in ensuring parents, children and young people can access the services they need. The CIS is ready to do this and we're all delighted that we've just received the Matrix

Annette Palmer, front left, with CIS staff, front Ravi Panesar, Gemma Liddiard. Back, Karen Day, Linda Malcolm-Stewart, Wendy Spencer, Wendy Law. Not

hildren's

Information Service

Quality Award which is a recognised qualification for Information Advice and Guidance Services." See the advertisement on the right for details of CIS services or go to www.cisswindon.co.uk They have also launched a new Children & Young People's Service Directory which is available from the centre. Call them to have a new service or activity for young people added. It can also be found online atwww.childrenandyoung peoplesservices.co.uk

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18 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Who is to become the leader of the world's super power? In a few days the race for the White House will end and the lives of not only Americans, but hundreds of millions around the world, as well as the health of the planet will be determined. Alex Ogle from Peatmoor says the result is too close to call evised, thus carefully scripted, bates illustrated a negative reac- do the American people stand to town hall meetings and, for Bush, tion to his huffing and scowling to gain from this game, played out invite-only rallies; both camps eu- charges his administration has with many millions of their tax logizing the same vague princi- 'made mistakes' in the execution of dollars? After President Clinton's record ples of 'freedom, strength, and the Iraq war, he spent the last debate with a fixed grin, at times laughing budget surplus in the 1990s, the opportunity.' winner will have to contend with a In the three debates in early Oc- jovially at such accusations. Yet as past campaign schedules record budget deficit, along with tober, opinion polls and media pundits unanimously considered have been a finely honed cross- spiralling petrol prices spilling Kerry the winner, with many prais- country operation, withprivatejets from the turmoil in Iraq. Furthermore, he willhavetostay ing his careful, articulated ap- whipping candidates and entouEvery day the President and proach. By contrast, Bush was al- rages from Long Beach, LA to Long the course in Iraq and continue to Democratic challenger Senator most comically inconsistent. After Island, NY, this election seems over spend many more millions, and John Kerry are head down in tel- polls following the first two de- already. Just a glance at the net- will have to consider the possibilwork news colourfully show the ity of instituting a draft to supplefive or six 'important' states for ment a strained at ms each candidate; with the CO-OPERATIVE FUNERAL SERVICE g^ other states regarded as 'safe' for either party. SWINDON of • Thenowfamousred-blu ' charts invented on election 439 Cricklade Road r night 2000 are back, showrvvrsroe m rcon r. '/ A ing how confined this elec: (01793) 534759 t ,: tion is; only Florida and a few of the Mid-West states & Temple House, 4/5 Temple Street are really up for the taking. 1 (The closest funeral director to the Registrar) Here in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania -home of John Ker(01793) 491091 ry's wife Teresa Heinz and 24 hour service her colossal 57 varieties corPrivate Chapels of Rest • Monumental masonry poration - this special sta- Alex with presidential chalicnticr J//r;; Pittsburgh on 20 October Funeral pre-payment plans tus means a lot of attention. Just in the last few weeks, www. mywishes.coo Despite the overwhelming apathe city has been graced with the presence of Kerry's running mate thy of the American public to poliSenator John Edwards, billionaire tics in general - more than 50 per Kerry supporter George Soros and cent did not vote in 2000 - this elecformer-State Department director tion has polarised the nation to the of intelligence Greg Thielmann, extreme. Antagonism and hostility who eloquently explained how the are the cornerstones of political deBush administration doctored in- bates; bitterness abounds between telligence data on Iraq's WMD for political viewpoints. political gain. With the candidates deadlocked John Kerry himself made a fleet- in the polls, it may be the presence ing appearance. With 13 days left of third party candidate Ralph A minimum of he has been urging on early voters Nader that could decide the elecinFloridaoneday,blitzingthrough tion, as many have claimed it did 1 % of the four western Pennsylvania stops in the 2000 election. Then Nader Society's profits the next, ending up in the biggest took thousands of voters away are returned swing state of them all, Ohio. from Gore, allowing Bush to - arHis Pittsburgh rally, supported guably - win the state of Florida by to projects to somewhat unnervinglyby rock star a few hundred. benefit the As Nader pointed out to me at a Jon Bon Jovi, energised a crowd of local community 8,000. The president, said Kerry, is rally a few weeks ago, there is no through the 'living in a fantasy land,' when it essential difference between the A £7 JJ -o-op community dividend grant to Upham comes to Iraq, charging the admin- two candidates. They both have Community Road Day Centre will be used to refurbish the istration with 'simply not telling great corporate ties and care little 'snoeze /e n'room - a carefully designed space that is Dividend the truth to the American people.' for the average low waged Amerire/axing and safe, equipped to provide stimulating Scheme. sensory experiences to those with /earning difficulties. Kerry's anti-war rhetoric has can. Establishment politics, he said, including a heated waterbed bean bags. a projector made it easy for Republicans to would never seriously examine the If you think a project with images of colourful shapes and patterns. a mirror cast their opponent as a wimp. It is problems as they would claim to ball and CD player ft a/so includes an electric hoist so you know of could clear machismo is as much a part do, because neither has genuine that clients can be safely lifted in and out of wheefqualify for a grant chairs. Mrs Ray Gellman, left, and her 25 year o/d son of this election as domestic policy, ambition to raise up those millions of up to £1,000, call: Alex, right. with Bonny Greenwood assistant manager. And whilst the 'war on terror,' is from dire poverty. Groundwell Road Co-op. the stump of any political address Like 12 September 2001, all the - be it Bush or Kerry - Vice-Presi- world's newspapers will have the dent Dick Cheney has clarified the same front page story on 3 NoRepublican position stating vember. The victor will either be a America would surely beattacked white multi-millionaire with close again if voters did not make the links to the oil industry or a white Oxford, Swindon & Gloucester right choice in November.' multi-millionaire with interests in But, for all the commotion, what the Heinz fortune. What began as the rumblings of the initial Democratic primary process to appoint a challenger to George W. Bush over 18 months ago culminates in the roar of the most expensive election in history. The 24 hour news networks are alive with shiny analysis, behind-the-scenes exclusives and interviews with undecided voters looking decidedly confused.

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call 0800 43 5902 for more information

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

First public performance in Old Railway Museum by award-winning musician Martha Parry of the trust said she was delighted the university had seen the possibilities of using the building. "This large space is perfect for big indoor events in the town centre: there is nothing li ke it. "Kaplan sounds intriguing, and to have a performer of Graham Fitkin's standing is a coup for Swindon. If you are looking for an amazing experi ence. I suggest you snap up one of the 150 tickets on sale." Call 01225 386777 for tickets at £10 / £8 conc. www.bath.ac.uk/arts www.fitkin.com

Swindon's newest event space - the Old Railway Museum in Faringdon Road -will be taken over by light and

sound rarely seen in the town on Saturday 13 November when internationally renowned musician Graham Fitkin performs Kaplan. Organised by the University of Bath Institute of Contemporary and Interdisciplinary Arts (I LIA) and the New Mechanics' Trust, which leases the building from Swindon Council, Kaplan is a compelling multimedia presentation combining live keyboards with film. Taking its inspiration from the Hitchcock classic. North by North-West, the performance promises to be a mesmorising experience. Themes of mistaken identity, mystery and suspense are conveyed through the specially created film whilst the rhythms of the richly orchestrated music drive its tensions and ambiguities. Fitkin has composed for some of the UK's

leading orchestras and ensembles, crossing the boundaries of classical and contemporary music, mixes cool jazz. electronica, bass driven grooves with sinister undertones. At the same time his work is very accessible, original and defies categories, leaving audiences exuberant and intrigued.

Win tickets to a gigantic pantomime It s panto time again at the Wyvern and this year's story about a boy who discovers the route to happiness via a genetically improved garden vegetable promises to be a monster hit. Jack and the Beanstalk runs from Friday 10 December to Sunday 9 January. and features Paul Bradley ex-Eastenders, as the evil Fleshcreep and Juliette Kaplan from Last of the Summer Wine. making a return visit to Swindon, this time as bringer of all things

good, Fairy Nuff. Laugh and cheer, hiss and boo as Dame Trot and her son Jack's fortunes turn from bad to worse when the good for nothing but inquisitive lad sells Daisy, the family cow for a handful of beans. As we all know the beans have been doctored by mad scientists, but it does mean Jack can search for Daisy in the clouds, and make a voyage of discovery in a world of giants. Find out what happens to him by entering our free draw for a family ticket. Send your name and address to The/ihk, address on page 4. The first out of the hat on 17 November gets to go to the ball. Goodmeets evil. Pau/Bradley and Juliette Kaplan

/^ -^'^'ssoI Gates open at 5.30p" Adult LS (cars via Hook Stre, r Bonfire lit at 6.00pm Child £2 Entertainment during the evening In the interest of your own safe ty , PLEASE LEAVE ALL YOUR OWN

FI REWORKS & SPARKLERS AT HOME'

Swindon & Cricklade Railway Sunday 28th November 11am - 4pm

SANTA SPECIALS TO PURT,

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NORTH o^ RSWINDON

Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane Swindon.

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Tel: (01793) 771615 When special events are not scheduled a train service operates Sundays 11 am to 4pm

Swindon Wide Line Dance Over 2,500 sq. ft. of products for the Artist, Crafter and Student D.M.C. Main Agency Daylight Lamps Stockist Picture Framing DIY Framing Supplies

Well worth a visit. Try us! Framework Art & Craft 63 Pembroke Centre Cheney Manor Trading Estate Swindon SN2 2PQ

Tel/Fax: (01793) 513069 Phone for directions. Parking.

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Midnight Cowboys Monday: Rodbourne Cheney, 7.30 Hodbourne Cheney Club. Moredon Road (near Rodbourne Arms)

Tuesday: Even Swindon, 7.00 Community Centre Jennings Street (oft Rodbourne Road) Wednesday: Highworth, 7.00

Thursday: Coleview 7.00 Community Centre. Nythe Road

Step by step instruction for absolute beginners. Weekend socials in Highworth and Swindon For more details Ring Lewis Watson on 764732 Ten years of teaching!

Gallery in the Street on Adshe/s . John Goto takes the co/oc,ra/ cast of characters from his 'Gilt City series andp/aces them in Swindon streets Swindon's first Imaging Festival takes art into the street by providing a fresh take on the gallery experience - a showcase for creative approaches to photography and digital imagery. Festival Launch: 4th. 5pm to 8pm, Havelock Square and The Apartment. Enjoy live entertainment and mulled wine and take part. • Heat: Discover your hot spots through a heat sensitive camera linked to a plasma screen under Brunel's gaze in Havelock Square. • Flying Photos: Bring or take a photograph that shows your true self to send by balloon to who knows where. • Seen on Screen: View work by the best of the region's photographers and digital artists. 'The Shop' at 36 Regent Street. Open daily 5th to 14th, 10am to 4pm. Shop for information and inspiration, display your digital images and video and see inspiring installations, including: • I mage Cafe - showcasing a wide range of innovatory digital work, both still and moving. Send or bring your disk or showreel to take part.

DANCE NIGHTS

• Installation - workon screen by John Kippin, Lou Spence, Pauline Pratt and Jill Carter

BEST OF BRITISH • 20 November

• Concrete Source - Plymouth University Media Lab/Dartington College of Art. An inspired collaboration exploring the temporal regeneration of Swindon's architectural form showing how human interaction can stimulate urban redevelopment

Dance and cabaret evening Tickets: £7 members: £8 non-members.

MEMPHIS BELLE • 4 December Dance Band Orchestra Tickets: £15 members; £16 non-members.

TRIBUTE TO DEAN MARTIN, FRANK SINATRA, BUDDY HOLLY • 18 December Tickets: £12 members: £13 non-members.

The Great Western Hospital Gallery, 4 November - 2 December Young people attending the hospitals school unit explore issues of identity and self-image in relation to health using specialist eye clinic cameras with photographer Jax Murray. Steam. A Cross Section of Swindon by James Robson. A 20 metre long print depicts Swindon from one side to the other, a cross-section of the town along the line of the Great Western Railway.

Doors for all dance nights 7pm. Start at 8pm.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS Start your Christmas Party celebrations with us. Choose from the following party dates: 4 December 10 December 11 December `—^ 1 5 December 1 6 December 1 8 December Enjoy a three course meal then dance the night away with our disco all for £20 per person (add £1 for non-members)

GE^y^^RE , Grange Drive Stratton St Margaret Tel: 825525

The Merlin Pub, Drove Road. Bodylines by Boo Beaumont. 14 November. Boo Beaumont's video explores fluidity of line from the human form echoing the sensual contours of landscape. To be shown in music video style on a bank of television screens in the pub. Plus talks, portfolio sessions and workshops on becoming a photographer, the possibilities of images. and discovering Swindon through a lens with experts. And exhibitions at the Wyvern Theatre. Swindon Arts Centre, University of Bath in Swindon. North and West Swindon libraries For details call Barbara Dixon, Visual Arts Officer, at Artscape on 466520, mail: bdixon@swindon.gov.uk, or pick up a leaflet in a Swindon library or go to www.swindonartscape.co.uk

Eating out this (hiristr s

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Now taking bookings for lunch and evening Christmas parties Please call for details of our special Christmas menus

DAY 5th NOVEMBER

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Wrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenham Road, Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ

Tel: 01 793 86132 7 Fax. 01793 861325 F_mail.. info@u , ragba'n.com onu.2t'ragbarn.coni

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NOW IS YOUR CHANCE IF YOU HAVE NOT YET BOOKED YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY Due to a late cancellation, Friday 3 December is now available for either a single pr irate party of up to 120guests, or id/i•/dual g roups.

Price starts from £21.50 per bead to include a 3 course meal table novelties and disco

Sunday Carvery Lunch Conic and enjoy our superb 3 course Sunday Carver' Lunch. Service commences at 12 noon. Advance booking is advisable.

For that extra special Winter's Day Outing Enjoy one of our 18 hole Winter Packages (Available from 1/11/2004 to 31/3/2005 for a mininatin of 8 people) 'Ice Breaker' Package at just £25.00 per bead • Coffee • 18 holes • 3 Course Chefs Choice Warmer Frost Bite' Package at just £30.00 per bead Coffee & Bacon Butty • 18 boles • 3 Course Chefs Choice Warmer The weather may be cold and icy but the greeting you receive at Wrag Barn will be warm and friendli,

Swindon Wide What°s Music

Diwali Party Saturday 20 November, 7.30pm Punjabi Community Centre, Kembrey Street Entertainment from Sound of Darkness disco Food on sale; bar Tickets £4 in advance; £5 on the door, from 886665 or 875299

Discover your hidden talents at Jake's Juggling Club Lower Shaw Farm Tuesdays 7pm to 8pm for 9 to 12 year olds (E3); 8pm to 10pm for 13 years to adults (£4) Just turn up or call 771080.

Monday 1st, 8pm Broadway. This glamorous, high energy Broadway extravaganza features an international cast of singers and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of New York! Highlights from Chicago, Cabaret, Grease, 42nd Street, Les Miserables, Cats, Chorus Line, Phantom and lots more. £1750. Wyvern Tuesday 2nd, 8pm Danny Thompson. Most at home in the folk world, join bass player Danny and Nashville guitarist Darrell Scott for some great acoustic music. £12 Arts Centre

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Thursday 4th, 8pm Amy Wadge. Winner of the Welsh Best Female Artist Award in 2002, Amy delivers a powerful acoustic session mixing folk and melodic rock. £10. Arts Centre Friday 5th, 7.30pm Long John Baldry Trio. LJB with his distinctive gravelly voice and 12 string guitar, teams up with guitarist Dave Kelly and harmonica player Butch Coulter to play the blues. £1250. Arts Centre Sunday 7th, 6.30pm Festival of Remembrance featuring the RAF and guest of honour Group Captain Oborn. Come along and support the National Poppy Appeal. £7 Wyvern

Thursday 11th, 7.30pm That'll Be the Day. Over 2 hours of 1 950s. 1960s and 1970s classic gold hits. £1650. Wyvern Friday 12th, 7.30pm National Youth Jazz Orchestra. An evening of big band jazz. £18. Westonbirt Schoo/ Friday 12th, 7.30pm Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra: My Kind of Music - a celebration of the life and music of Ron Goodwin, one of Britain's greatest film score composers and musical arrangers. The concert features music from 633 Squadron, Those Magnificent Men in Their Fly/hg Machines and Where Eagles Dare. £1850. Wyvern Friday 12th, 8pm Flook. Two flautists, a guitarist and a bodhran player mix traditional tunes with contemporary ideas. £12. Arts Centre. Saturday 13th, 7.30pm An Evening with Janis Ian. Known for her evocative voice, poetic wordplay and sublime melodies, Janis Ian has been a quiet success story since her debut album in 1967. £20. Arts Centre Wednesday 17th to Saturday 20th, 7.30pm Sunday 7th, 7.30pm On With The Show presented by Baka Beyond (above). This stunning The Kentwood Choir. A rollercoaster blend of Gaelic and African music ri de through the best of songs from features a funky pan-African rhythm some of the finest musicals past and section, great vocal harmonies and a present. £9/£8 Wed and Thurs. £10/ wild Breton fiddler, Paddy le Mercier. £8 Fri and Sat Wyvern Inspired by the music of the Baka. hunter gatherer pygmies, the group Saturday 20th, 7.30pm has developed into an eight piece The Animals & Friends 40th band, whose album sales have anniversary tour. £16.50. Oasis helped build a unique music house in Sunday 21st, 3pm the rain forest of Cameroon. £12. Swindon Recital Series: David Childs Arts Centre (euphonium) Tuesday 9th, 8pm Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. An and Harvey evening of outstanding musicianship Davies charting the songs of arguably the (piano) with _ world's first supergroup from their of original (' // inception in 1967. £1 5 50. Wyvern music for the ^1 ' Tuesday 9th, 8pm euphonium, lain Matthews Duo. lain Matthews, plus virtuosi former member of Fairport -a ^^^ show pieces Convention and Plainsong renowned and classical for his clear strong voice, transcriptions. £10. Arts Centre unforgettable solo work and song writing is joined by Richard Kennedy. Sunday 21st. 7.30pm Nashville Nights & Dixie Days. £10. Arts Centre Back by popular demand with a new Wednesday 10th, 8pm show for 2004 comes this celebration Girls' Night. A hilarious and of the best in country music from emotional story of five very different Patsy Cline and Don Williams to friends who re-live their past on a Shania &Garth Brooks. £11. Wyvern wild night out at a karaoke club. £14. Tuesday 23rd, 7.30pm Wyvern That'II Be the Day. Over 2 hours of Wednesday 10th, 8pm 1950s, 1960s and 1 970s classic gold Chris While and Julie Matthews. hits. £16.50. Wyvern Julie plays guitar. piano, bouzouki, mandolin, piano accordion and har- Wednesday 24th, 2.30pm monica and Chris the guitar, bodran. Roll Out The Barrel. Nostalgia with banjo, dulcimer and percussion. Both Terry Bradford and Sussie Arvesen. are former singers with Albion Band You can sing along or just sit back and create an evening of acoustic/ and enjoy a treasure chest of oldti me favourites. £750. Wyvern roots music. £10. Arts Centre

On in November Workshops Saturday 13th & Saturday 20th, 10am - 4pm Stained Glass. Two day course with Sasha Ward, of design, glass painting and firing. All materials provided. £56 Arts Centre

Film Saturday 27th, 7.30pm Merry Christmas Everybody with Slade + T - Rextasy + Dr & The Medics. Founder members Dave Hill and Don Powell continue to lead Slade with their unique style of rock'n'roll and are joined byT-Rextasywho perform all of Marc Bolan's greatest hits and Dr & The Medics who are still led by the man who made Spiritin the Sky a chart-topper. £16. Wyvern

Wednesday 3rd, 7.45pm Mang Jing (Blind Shaft) (15) Li Yang's taut uncompromising thriller, which tells of two unscrupulous miners who come up with a racket to make their fortunes out of naive itinerant workers, was banned in China. Subtitled Swindon Fi/m Society

Sunday 28th, 7.30pm Civic Carol Concert. Start the Christmas celebrations with a family carol concert with the Salvation Army. £4. Wyvern

Thursday 30th, 7.45pm Song for a Raggy Boy (15) It is 1939 and a lay teacher (Aidan Quinn) aims to change the ways of an Irish Catholic Reform School in beautifully photographed, sombre depiction of institutional brutality, based on a true story. lain Glenn's chilling portrayal of the abuse of power as Brother John is one of many fine performances. £4. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society All films are shown atthe Arts Centre, tickets arenotso/din advance. society leaflets are available at the Arts Centre, join when purchasing tickets.

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Sunday 28th, 7.30pm Rory Block. One of the best female traditional blues singers around. Rory sings intense delta blues, passionate folk and gripping originals. £12. Arts Centre Monday 29th, 7.30pm Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree starring Alvin Stardust (right). The ultimate musical for a fun filled rockin party. £15.50. Wyvern

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Swindon Wide What's

Theatre

Dance

Comedy

Saturday 6th, 8pm Hey Gringo! Through Peru. Peter Searles dices with the bizarre, the beautiful and the downright

Friday 12th, 7.45pm Three Play featuring 'Uncouple' a duet by Henry Montes and Deborah Saxon. 'Wild Rose' by Janis Claxton and 'Mutability' by Marie Gabrielly Rotie. £8.50. Town Ha// Studios Friday 19th, 7.45pm Studio Sketches. An informal showing of new work in progress, '51 Solos' by Angus Balbernie and Company. £650. Town Ha// Studios Friday 26th, 7.45pm Park presented by Jasmin Vardimon Dance Company. £11. Wyvern

Monday 8th, 7.30pm Jimmy Greaves with special guest Chelsea legend, Ron 'Chopper' Harris. A great night of comedy and football with England's greatest goalscorer. £15 Wyvern Thursday 11th, 8pm Boothby Graffoe. The Radio 4 star is touring with his new show, blending inspired stand-up with songs that are as musical as they are hilarious. £10. Arts Centre Monday 22nd, 7.30pm Lenny Henry with 'So Much Things To Say' on a nationwide tour after a critically acclaimed run in London. £22.50. Wyvern

dangerous as he encounters

drug dealers, dutch airline hostesses, Maoist guerillas and Carmelite monks on his travels through Latin America. A cross between stand-up, story-telling and travelogue. £8.50. Arts Centre Monday 8th. 8pm Hideaway presented by Complicite. Two Dutch sisters hide in a wartime attic, the infant Catherine de Medici is hidden in a bucket to avoid being used as a political pawn, while two Cuban boys plan to stowaway in a Boeing 777. £10. Arts Centre Wednesday 17th to Saturday 20th, 7.30pm Absolute Turkey. The Western Players celebrate 100 years of performing with one of Feydeau's Tuesday 30th, 7,30pm funniest farces, full of intrigue, Russian State Cossack Dance betrayals, mistakes and mis- (above). This sensational world class understandings. Erring husbands are company of 40 dancers, musicians caught, and outraged wives wreak and singers is widely acknowledged their revenge. £5, tickets on 343500 as Russia's premiere Cossack Dance only. Arts Centre troupe. £18.50. Wyvern

Lower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane, Shaw

' *'

Wednesday 3 & Thursday 4 November, 10am to 12.30pm Family activity sessions Fun on the farm for young children and their parents or carers. Follow the nature trail, feed the hens and collect the eggs, seasonal art and craft work. A snack is provided and you are welcome to bring a picnic lunch. In case of bad weather activities will be inside. Free, but p/aces rnustbe booked on 771080

L 11 [ -i • [\ 0l SEAF^y{t

` JJJ^^ R...

Holderr of the Seafish Friers Quality Award

Children and Family Events Saturdays 13th and 27th 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 and accounts of their experiences. Norma/ admission prices. STEAM Saturday 20th, 2.30pm Brian Patten: Gargling with 1 Jelly. See the -- 7' ®'' invisible man's invisible dog! HRJ. I" Learn to juggle ^ ^^^91 with gerbils! Brian Patten , o^ brings his hilarious am; 1' IMP lyrical and outrageous poems to life in this extravaganza of verse and worse. £750. Arts Centre Tuesday 23rd to Saturday 27th,

7.30pm plus Saturday 10.30pm and 2.30pm Dick Whittington presented by Stage Struck. A fun-filled traditional performance for all the family. £750. lirnitedseats, call642542. Arts Centre Sunday 28th, 11 am - 4pm Santa Specials. Steam train rides. Swindon 8 Crick/ade Railway, ca// 771615 for details

Studley Grange garden & leisure park

Visit the tropics in Wilshire, rain or shine, summer or winter. You can walk among hundreds of the world's most beautiful butterflies, flying freely against a backdrop of trooical olants and skimmino over fish filled

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On in November Exhibitions Arts Centre Tuesday 2nd to Saturday 27th Look Out - there's a bag on your head by John Bailey A different view of the urban landscape in Swindon. Wyvern, Circle Bar My Home Town by Mark Pope 'Swindon has loads going for it, so why does it have the air of a place that is neglected?' Mark Pope's photographs document his feelings. West Swindon Library From Tuesday 9th Sparkling Stitches and Twinkling Threads An exhibition of stitched textiles, featuring the work of the We 3 Textile artists, Kathleen Danswan, Janet Hand and Jennifer Thompson. Wyvern, Lower Foyer From Wednesday 3rd Open Exhibition - Regeneration Contemporary approaches to creating images through photography Swindon Museum & Art Gallery All Aboard Celebrating the centenary of Thamesdown Transport. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Swindon at War Marking the 60th anniversary of the D-Day landings and the role of Swindon and its people during WW2. Science Museum, Wroughton Sat 13th & Sun 14th, 10am to 5pm Art and the Machine Science and technology interpreted from different perspectives. Adults £4, cons £3, chi/dren f2 Tootleabrook WI Wednesday 17 November, 7.30pm Toothill Community Centre Mr Clarke will give a talk on Winter Fun in Fin/and All welcome Call 539456 for details

Venues Arts Centre. Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 Lydiard House. Tel: 770401 Oasis Leisure Centre. Tel: 445401 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Science Museum, Wroughton Tel: 846200 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane, Blunsdon. Tel: 771615 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 Westonbirt School. Tetbury, Glos. Tel: 01666 880333 West Swindon Library. Link Centre. Tel: 465555 Wyvern Theatre. Tel: 524481 Confirm date, time and price with the venue

Markets in Swindon Town Centre Farmers' Markets Thursdays 4 & 18 November, 2 & 16 December, 10am - 4pm

Fireworks Brook Field School Thursday 4 Nov, 5.30-7.30pm Display 6.30pm Fair ground attractions Westlea School Friday 5 November Gates 5pm; barbecue 5.30pm; bonfire 6.15pm: fireworks 6.30pm Family (2+2) £8; adult £3; child £2 Oliver Tomkins School Friday 5 November Gates 7pm; display 7.30pm Family (2 + 2) £10; adult:£3.50; child £2.50. Refreshments Organised by Friends of Oliver Tomkins Schools

Swindon Lions Club Polo Ground, Marlborough Road Saturday 6 November Gates 5.30pm; entertainment 6pm; display 7.15pm Advance tickets from branches of Nationwide Building Society Adult £3.50; children & OAPs £1.50 Free park and ride service from Nationwide car park in Pipers Way 1st Purton & Lydiard Scouts Fireworks & Bonfire Spectactular Lydiard Park Saturday 6 November Gates 5.30pm: bonfire 6pm Adults £5; child £2

French Market Friday 5 to Sunday 7 November Christmas Craft Markets Thursdays 4 & 11 November. 1 Oam - 9pm Thursday 4 November. 7pm Christmas fights switch-on

Fundraising Car Boot Sale Freshbrook Communty Centre Every Sunday, from 7am Large hall inside or car park at rear f4/car or table Tel- 877650 for details Moloney & McInerney School of Irish Dancing present Brendan Shine With support from Riky Denham Grange Drive Centre. Stratton Saturday 6 November, 8pm £ 10. in aid 0/ /risk dancing competition in 2005 Quiz Night The Commonweal School Thursday 11 November, 7.30pm Prizes for winning team (6,oeopie/ and best team name. Bar available £2/person. Te/ 641773 for details Fairtrade Christmas Bazaar Toothill Church Saturday 13 November 2pm - 4pm Christmas cards and wrapping paper, hamper baskets, stocking fillers and other fairly traded goods. Party Plan Moredon Infant & Nursery School Friday 19 November, 2pm - 4pm Delicious Designs. Virgin Vie. Body Shop, Indian Head Massage Chocoholics, The Book People, Raffle it refreshments Craft Fair The Commonweal School Saturday 21 November, 11 am - 4pm Free entry, over 50 craft stalls, healing zone, refreshments Christmas Fayre St Augustine's Church, Even Swindon Saturday 27 November, 2pm Come and meet Father Christmas

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Swindler wide Exposing animal suffering Hot on the heels of London fashion week in October, Swindon Animal Concern supporter Anish Harrison from Toothill. took to the streets in the town centre dressed as Wilma Flintstone to expose the mass torture of thousands of wild and domestic animals, which are caught and bred for the production of fur.

Put some heat into the big chill with a fire walk They say this winter is going to be long and hard. But you can get your festive celebrations off to a hot start by taking part in the hottest fundraising event of the year the GWR FMs Ultimate Christmas Challenge. Take part in the Fire Walk on Friday 26 November, 5.30pm, outside the Town Hall in Regent Circus. If you're just burning to do something different before the year is out. call the GWR Hotline on 663060. Righ/ getting the bed a/ coals ready

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Wearing a leopard print dress and full-length fake fur coat. "The fur trade is coming back big time because fur is back in fashion. People have no idea how badly animals are treated just for the sake of making these garments. "The methods of killing them are very cruel and designed so that the animal's fur is not damaged. "The import of cat and dog fur is rising rapidly, often mislabelled as something like mink."

Euro chocs to be won by EuroMix listeners Paul Dunn from Hayden Wick presents a weekly programme of music from all over Europe, plus tracks in English on SwindonFM.

Swindon Scrapstore celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2005 and staff and volunteers are writing a book which tells the story of turning tons of Swindon's business waste into useful educational material for preschools, youth groups, play schemes and schools. Sue Dunmore would like to hear from past volunteers, members and suppliers - in fact, anyone who might have information which would be useful to the project. Contact her on 513982, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 1 1 am to 4pm, or write to Scrapstore, Pinehurst People's Centre, Beech Avenue, Swindon SN2 1 JT. Sue said, "we hope to gather information from as wide a range of people as possible. We have already collected a good amount of archive material and made contact with people who have used and helped Scrapstore in the past" Sue would also like to hear from businesses interested in sponsoring the project. â€˘ Businesses who would like to know more about contributing waste to Scrapstore should call the above number. It's surprising how it can be used.

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h0t4Ae_--., Studio flats available to rent for over 65s at two Swindon schemes. For further details and to arrange a viewing, contact the regional office on 01672 515622 or email marlboroughinfo@jbha.co.uk . Please quote reference braiwin/oct04.

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He can be heard on the web at www.swindonfm.co.uk or DAB digital radio on Tuesdays 9pm to 10pm Paul is offering readers the chance to win a bar of Swiss Lindt chocolate. All you have to do is tell us how many official languages Switzerland has? Send your answers to The Link, address page 4. by 15 November.

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Celebration of word forms Even in the wordy world of literature, flattery works, writes Matt Holland. When the Director of the Poetry each person's place identified by a Society said that she had heard named paper poetry plate. and that we can put on a good literary beside the fork, a pen! Everyone show in Swindon, what could we knew exactly what to do - pour a drink, greet yourtablemate. have a do but spring into action. And so it was that on Thursday 7 chat, and, if the spirit moved you, October. National Poetry Day, po- write. ets. poems. and poetic treats were popping up all over town. There were rhyming couplets on the wireless, poets on the loose in schools. readings in li braries, orations in offices, and recitations in cafes. Performance poet Marcus Moore put his wonderful wordplay to educational use. He was Marcus with Abbey Meads poets enthusiastically received by Stuart Watson and Pau/ine Ruenji purposeful and poetically playful pupils at Abbey Meads, St Some only chatted instead of Francis Church of England and writing. But that was all right. bePeatmoor primary schools. cause Matt Harvey was really our In offices and cafes round town, poet for the night. His terrific and innocent diners and workers were tender poems touched all things offered rhyming couplets by a lit- modern, mysterious, and normal. erature festival organiser turned Like shopping for curtains that frolicsome versifier. The most would reflect his personality, getpopular lines in daytime Swindon ting a new computer. and having proved to be these. appropriately the right relationships. 'If love can perhaps, since the theme of the build a bridge, can affection put up day was poems and food. a shelf?' he asked. as diners were `Crisps ... I love them./Crisps . fi nishing their apple pie. they are the best/A crunchy conMatt Harvey's irony was gentle, solation whenever I'm depressed./ his wordplay dazzling, and his little ... Crisps are delicious, crisps are bits of wisdom both wonderful and sublime/If crisps were illegal. I'd witty. But most of all, he was living, end up doing time./ If ever I was talking. performing proof that porobbed and all my things were etry does not have to be solemn to taken, /I pray to God they'd leave be serious, and good. behind a bag of smokey bacon.' Here was an event that looks set The day climaxed with a Poems to become another annual literary & Food evening at Lower Shaw hotspot on the town's cultural calFarm. Poetry lovers took their seats endar. It really was a right good at the candle-lit wooden tables, day and night!

Moth attraction at Studley Grange A moth made famous by the film Silence of the Lambs has been bred for the first time at the Studley Grange Butterfly World. A dozen pupae of the Death Head moth have hatched and can now be seen with the help of the experts at the butterfly centre. Manager Luke Brown said the moth, distinctive for the skull and cross bone markings on its back had a special place for him, as finding a pupae in his parents' garden first stimulated his interest in insects. "When other kids wanted a skateboard or a BMX for Christmas. I asked for a greenhouse to breed butterflies. All the others were hanging around bus stops on summer's evenings. but I was in the fields with my net." Studley Grange Butterfly World is now one of the largest butterfly centres in the country. having added this year an open air enclosed English butterfly garden and a new heated enclosure specially for the Morpho, the majestic big

a^.

blue butterfly with a six inch wingspan. The adjacent Studley Grange Craft World is an excellent place to visit for Christmas gifts. For details see the advertisement on page 24. www.studleygrange.co.uk

Swindon Wide Brunel's birthday now in planning

The April Link asked whether Swindon was going to do anything about the two hundredth anniversary of Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 2006. Now the town is likely to take part in regional celebrations following a meeting of interested groups in October. Swindon's Strategic Arts Officer Helen Miah said she wanted to hearfrom individuals, groups and schools with ideas of how Brunel's contribution to Swindon's success can be celebrated. To find out more call her on 466544 or mail: hmiah@swindon.gov.uk

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`lq unbelievablyfunnystories. and delivers un censored and outrageous comments on topics such as the differencesbetweenmen and women as well as West Country logic. This could be the most side splitting 56 minutes in your DVD • collection. To win, write to The Link(address on page 4) form. telling us how many videos Jethro Kicking off with a series of non- has released. Closing date 16 Nostop jokes, Jethro gives his hys- vember. terical take on everything from pub- See Jethro live at the Oasis Leili c toilets and George Bush to Ol- sure Centre on 4 December. Tickympic themed condoms and ets at £16 from 445401. www.jethro.co.uk Viagra. He also tells a series of

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Schools should not just be judged by exam results and Ofsted reports; the quality of its toilets are just as important for children and parents says Swindon South MP Julia Drown. comfortable about using the She is spearheading the 'Bog t toilet in school because it afStandard Campaign' in the fects their health and concentown and gave Greendown's tration in class. The governors loos the seal of approval in Oc,i re to be commended for comtober. mitting resources to maintainThe campaign is an all party ing the toilets which are clean, initiative to promote better faand have paper and soap cilities for children. Recent available." studies have found that many Headteacher Steve O'Sullichildren and young people are van said the school council's unwilling or unable to use their concerns were behind the imschool toilets because of their provements. poor physical state, their lack Students are allowed unreof facilities and privacy, and stricted access during breaks the risk of bullying. but have to seek permission to Julia said she was impressed use the toilets during class by Greendown's approach ti mes. A cleaner is on-site which has seen all its toilets refurbished in the last two Julia Drown inspects Greendown's sparkling throughout the day to sort out any problems. years. "Children should feel bogs with Steve O'Sullivan

`You are what you eat, but you don't have to feel bad about it' Christmas and New Year festivities are looming fast, tables are already reserved at favourite restaurants and time, energy and money will be dedicated to what outfit to wear, writes Maggie Arshad, from Westlea, who runs MotivEat. Wild, 181111 D1110K4, WOEI, fI60AI, But the preparations can be I stick to my diet? Have I got 911(8111 k AUIKI, DRIED PKUIT, TEA t (OFPEE, tNUTNEII, PICK IAU(Ei AND MORE. marked by much stress. "What am time to lose weight?" I going to wear? Can I get into my Do you think this only hapCO NTACT: PRONE: 01793323015 MARKETHAu favourite outfit? Will it still fit me? pens at Christmas? I can tell Will I look fat in it? What will it you it doesn't; hundreds of MOBILE: 07838158603 SWINDON feel like once I've eaten a big meal? thousands of people experiOPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY I'll try it on and see how I look in it ence these thoughts every day. gam to 5.30pm - oh my God, I look fat! Why didn't However, the festive period can negatively heighten the way people feel about themselves. Christmas, with its strong social aspect and tendency towards over-indulgence, has a powerful influence on what, why, when, how much and how often we eat. There is an underlying sense of treating oneself and others. But, when the 'treating period' is over, a Maggie Arshad more sinister thing takes over Yet dieting is known to be one of — a drive to reverse the result of the treating i.e. the big DIET. the most powerful triggers for the So many people have a great development of an eating disorder deal of phobia, fear and guilt in both sexes. around eating and constantly Are you caught in this dieting measure themselves by what they trap? You don't have to be. Guilt think and feel about their bodies. around eating drives people to eat People struggle to help them- more on the basis that they can selves through, trying various di- 'always diet later.' But, each time ets, dieting products, starving you diet you alter your body chemPurton House, Church End, Purton, themselves or buying over the istry, making it more and more Wiltshire SN5 4EB • Tel: 01793 772287 counter medicines to purge their difficult to lose weight and much bodies. Sadly, all of this is in vain. easier to gain. www.purton-house.co.uk The best gift you can receive this The constant search for new diets, the emotional highs of losing Christmas is being kind to youron, ôvr^ôovs ^ weight and the guilt and shame of self. 6)VJar,« ôo^9voWn ' gaining it back seems to be consistYou can explore your personal ent and rampant in our culture. eating with a specialist practitioner Call us for details about joining We are being urged to eat more at MotivEat. Call 872163 or mail: than we need by incessant media motiv.eat@ntlworld.com our Organic Box Scheme messages whilst being asked to In early 2005 there is an Eating deny ourselves at the same time. Disorders Support Group starting Vegetables • Fruit • Meat • Eggs A recipe for chocolate cake in any in Swindon for both sufferers and Deliveries & drop off points in Swindon, Cirencester. magazine is likely to be side by carers. Details will be advertised side with an article on how to lose nearer the time in The Link. Wootton Bassett. Broad Hinton, Marlborough, Wroughton www.motiveat.co.uk body fat. ANDREW AND JOHN ESMONDEAHITE

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The Link Magazine • November 2004

Singing along for Child Line

ThE Library CollEction Home service launched North Swindon Librar y has started its Home Library service, joining 12 other libraries across the town, already involved in delivering items to people at home, who through disability or illness cannot get into a library themselves and have no one else to help. People of all ages living in Abbey Meads, St Andrew's Ridge, Ash Brake, Taw Hill, Priory Vale, Greenmeadow and Hayden Wick are eligible for this free service. For details, call Debs Osorio on 707127 or mail: dosorio@swindon .gov.uk

Melinda backs an early start with books Swindon celebrity and mother of three joined parents with preschool children for a family morning at the West Swindon Library on 8 October to promote the early years Bookstart programme.

Youngsters at Catherine Wayte Primary School in Abbey Meads joined thousands of others across the country in a mass sing of Happy Birthday on 15 October to wish ChildLine a happy 18th anniversary, and also marked the launch of the charity's first ever ChildLine Day.

Discover the www! Noticed all those new computers in the library but never had the confidence to have a go? The West Swindon library holds a free taster session on how to use the People's Network on WednesAll who attended received a free day 17 November, 10am to 'Bookstart Plus' pack purchased 12.30pm, when you can discover with a donation by the Swindon the internet and e-mail with help Learning Partnership. These confrom a member of staff. tained two stor y books for toddlers,

Salon opens in time for Christmas North Swindon has a new hair salon, Serendipity at the Neighbourhood Centre on St Andrews Ridge. Opened by exSwindon Town star Fraser Digby ^^^ ^ Y on 13 September, the salon belongs to Sue Seagroett "^' with daughter Hayley as man ager. "We've had a tremendous response from peo : J -ple living on St Sue and Hayley, right, with first customers, from left, Andrews Ridge," Andrea Gardner, Marjorie Hall, Kay Swain said Sue. "But we're not only for this area; people ing for a new hair-do, restyle or from Abbey Meads and further colour scheme. They also offer afield are discovering Serendip- massage, pedicure, manicure, ity." facials, waxing and nail extensions. With Christmas parties coming See the number right to make an up, now's the time to make a book- appointment.

crayons and drawing pads, colourful friezes, a toddlers' book list and a book for parents, 'More things to do with books.' Other events during the morning to mark National Bookstart Day included nursery rhymes, learning how to make simple crafts with children, an introduction to the library's People's Network computers as well as tasting the cake cut by Melinda.

7 4/R

Catherine Wayte teachers Rachel Farmer and Tiffany England at the singalong

They hope to have contributed up to £300 towards the UK's free, 24 hour helpline for children and young people. Over 2,000 children call ChildLine daily to speak to a trained volunteer counsellor for comfort, advice and protection. The number is 0800 1111. www.childline.org.uk

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Coaching towards sensible eating Understanding your Self is the key to losing weight, unlocking your potential and achieving that dream, says Life Coach Alison Sullivan. Many people have tried diets, lost weight and then regained it again. A Life Coach becomes a personal mentor to help you to analyse what you eat and why and help you develop a planned ap-

proach to maintaining your weight for the rest of your life. Alison says we all have 'gremlins' that stop us from making changes and demand that everything remains the same. Getting in touch with them is a good start, so

that you can start removing those self limiting beliefs and replacing them with positive and constructive ones. Weight control is not the only issue Alison deals with. She also supports parents who want to change the way they look after their children. See her advertisement on page 16 or call 01380 859560 or 07710 505558. www.alisonjsullivan.com

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32 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Spreading the spirit of Kelly Kelly Holmes' outstanding performance in the summer Olympics was the inspiration for training sessions at Greendown School in October by British 1500 metre runner James Thie. Visiting the school under the He said he would be working Olympics taking Kelly Holmes toSport England Sporting Champi- hard to qualify for the 2008 Beijing tal commitment as his inspiration. ons Programme, James took an James with some of the Greendown Year 6 students si nner

cehnnl nccomhly nnrl than

Vet wins gold In the world of gymnastics you're called a veteran from aged 20, but that does not mean you're washed up and over the hill. Helena Robinson from Westlea proved this by winning a gold medal at the British Veterans Gymnastics Tournament at the end of September. The 29 year old

performed on the floor, the vault and beam, including a flick in her routine, a 360 degree

somersault without hands. Helena, a mentoring coordinator with Wiltshire & Swindon Education Business Plus, teaches with the Swindon School of Gymnastics.

Netball players wanted In Abbey Meads Community Primary School, a group of women meets at 10.30am on Thursday morning during term time for fitness training and games, with coaching from Lorraine Bulpitt. The session costs £3 and there is a free creche. Just turn up or call Roxanna Cox on 723239 to book childcare.

Calling Arsenal supporters The Swindon and North Wiltshire Arsenal Supporters' Club is looking for new members. The club has been formed by

Dave Garrad to allow club supporters the opportunity to obtain match tickets on a priority basis from the Arsenal ticket office. The next supporters' meeting will be held at the Premier Club (formerly Crosslink Centre), Ermin Street on 7 November, 7pm. Anyone interested in joining the club is welcome to attend. Or call Dave Garrad on 01793 751041.

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The Link Magazine • November 2004

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Free new patient consultation Free Chirocheck always available IF YOU ARE SUFFERING FROM: 0 Backache, Leg pain

Member of the EH.T (Federation of Holistic Therapies

0 Neck, Shoulder. Arm Pain

For appointments and advice,

O Headache & Migraine

call 01793 321777 Mobile: 077454 10355 Your first step to well being ...

Reflexology and Aromatherapy.

Perfect Nails Mini Manicures Gel Nail Extensions

CRYSTAL HEALING

REIKI

mind, body and sotll

Sciatica

O Sports Injury 0 Arthritis 0 Whiplash

. Wei htWaehers WESTLEA SCHOOL Thursday 5.30pm FRESHBROOK CHURCH Wednesday 7pm ABBEY MEADS PRIMARY SCHOOL Thursday 6.15pm

WEIGHT LOSS New Shape - New You!!

Reiki School & Clinic Angel Healing & Reiki Professional Reiki Courses, Reiki 1, 2, 2Adv & Masters

Wanted Serious people interested in weight loss 30 day money back guarantee FREE SUPPORT

Call 08457 123 000

Still enjoy your favourite foods

for other meetings in the area or visit Meeting Finder at www,weightwatchers.co.uk

F.J & P.J. Taylor FREE information pack

Call 01793 706289

01793 554767

www.slimondown.uk.net

ROB KING MHFS T

Les Slinn

Monday 9.30am, Wednesday 6pm & 7.15pm Discover the new Time To Eat programme

Personal Trainer

REMEDIAL MASSAGE THERAPIST Back & neck disorders Muscular & joint problems Sports injuries Fully trained, qualified

and insured

Call 01793 345888 or 0793 0694008 for appointments & advice

Personal Training Instruction for all ages, abilities & fitness levels. Evening Advertiser Columnist & Swindon FMs Health /Fitness Advisor. • Qualified & Cerntied Personal Trainer • Nut r ition & Weight Management Consultant

•

Circuits Instructor

• Core Stabilit y & Torso Instructor

•

Kids Fit Instructor

"Learn how to get & stay motivated in a fun relaxed atmosphere, helping you to achieve that body you have always wanted."

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Shaw Chiropractic Clinic SANDRA E. DAVIES D.C.

Exciting Advanced Reiki Techniques Continuous Personal and Spiritual Development Qualified Therapists & Masters 10 years Experience Advanced Reflexology also available Both therapies good for stress, pain or emotional distress

HAYDON CENTRE

YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CONSULTING A CHIROPRACTOR

RE DUNCAN-HAWES MSc. D.C.

Tel: (01793) 887801 Members of BCA • Registered with GCC Members of the College of Chiropractors *Presentation of this advert will entitle you to a free new patient consultation which will include othopaedic and neurological testing together nil a confidential report of findings (Treatment will incur a fee. Offer excludes insurance claims)

Acupuncture at Taw Hill Medical Practice Mark Ackland BSc PhD Lie Ac MBAcC

Laser (needle-free) acupuncture now available

Appointments call: 07973 - 185158 SESSIONS: FRIDAYS 2pm to 7pm Please contact the practice or visit www.tawhillsurgery.nhs.uk for details. TAW HILL MEDICAL PRACTICE. QUEEN ELIZABETH DRIVE. SWINDON SN25 1 WL;; TEL: 01 793 709500 • FAX: 01793 723875 E-MAIL: ENQUIRIESCTAWHILLSURGERV.NHS.UK

34 The Link Magazine • November 2004

PARKING CENTRAL SWINDON

Don't let annoying cosmetic damage ruin the look and value of your car

Annual long stay parking from only £63.00 per month Contact Christine Jenkins Tel: 01793-690600

• Paintwork scdit; and scratches Interior trim repairs • Bumper repai • Alloy wheel repairs Call 07050 266325 for a free, no obligation quote

your partner in business

www.trimlineswindon.co.uk

Providing friendly & efficient * servicing * engine & gearbox rebuilds * electrical repairs * brake and clutch repairs * cam belt replacement

MpK^S L ^of pa

`G^o& SCR ^ p^REO

5 - RE ^ ^ ^

* MOT repairs * sales

U v

OPTIMA MOTORS Tel: (01793) 840667 39b Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St Ivel

* Fantastic new range of junior motorbikes and quads, from £599. Reserve yours for Christmas k with a small deposit.

Watch out if you employ somebody New laws on grievance and disciplinary matters came into effect on 1 October and apply to all employers, even those with just one employee. Where there is a dispute, em- tive dismissal, such as demotion ployers and employees alike need or a change to terms which are less to follow the three step dispute favourable. "Following these steps will demresolution guidelines set out in the onstrate that attempts have been Act. These are: 1 issue a letter detailing the made to deal with matters approproblem (set it out in writing); priately and reasonably — by both 2 call a formal meeting to address parties." The legislation is aimed to rematters and allow the employee duce the level of employment trithe right to be accompanied bunal claims. There were 98,000 (hold a meeting); 3 allow the employee the right to claims in 2003; in 37 per cent of appeal. (allow an appeal). cases, no attempt at reconciliation Christine Pratt of HR & Diver- or resolution had been made. HR & Diversity Management sity Management Ltd. from Rushey Platt says, "it is imperative that Ltd. will conduct a free audit of employers follow the guidelines personnel policies so that employlaid down under this Act, even if ers can ensure compliance with they have just one employee they legislation to help take the heat out of disputes in the future and enneed to be just as careful. "Failure to comply will result in sure legal costs are kept to an absoa dismissal being found to be'au- lute minimum. tomatically unfair' by an employFor details of the services on ment tribunal and fines will be offer call Christine Pratt on 338888 imposed — no matter how badly or 07734 701221. that employee has behaved. This www.HRDiversity.co.uk www.bullyingbusiness.com also includes disputes onconstruc-

Business interaction out west Business Referral Exchange (BRE) is a professional business networking organisation where members meet regularly to develop relationships and promote their skills. BRE members hold breakfast meetings at the Lydiard Conference Centre and are keen to meet people in any trade or business seeking to build a network of clients and develop new business. The group is interested in people engaged in change management, telemarketing, plumbing, painting and decorating, carpentry (and other trades), law, estate agency, catering, car leasing, administration and banking, beauty and complimentary therapy, health and safety I training, organising events and mobile ironing services In fact, whatever your trade or business, BRE would like to meet you. To find out rnore_call Ian Lawrence on 874466. L

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS etronic tuning * Welding * Electri k * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 25 years experience

* See our huge range of cycles, sizes to suit the whole family.

(No \A1' to pay)

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350

Ice skates from CCM, Sherwood, Bauer, Risport etc.

THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Est. 1981

* Still sitting in that traffic queue? We've got new scooters from £799 O.T.R.

Your local garage door specialist • Up and over, roller and sectional

garage doors Cycling Centre Ferndale Road

Finance & insurance arranged to suit your personal , e requirements -

<<, ^'Pa w

a `eOway^^^

• • •

Remote operation doors

2 years guarantee

Maintenance free doors Superb security locking facilities • Stockists of the largest range of spare pa rt s in the South West of England

Ooas,s

GARAGE DOOR

233 Ferndale Road, Swindon • Tel: (01793) 53665 a

Telephone 01793 513796 Maxwell House, Maxwell Street. Swindon email: swindondoorservice @ btinternet.co.uk www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

The Link Magazine • November 2004

Preparing to transport into the future Thamesdown Transport marked its centenary to the day at the end of September by launching a new phase in its history when the Mayor of Swindon coun Peter Stoddart dug the first sod to level the old Barnfield road dump site to make way for a £4.6 million bus depot. On completion in July 2005 the company will move out of its Corporation Street HQ where electric trams first provided public transport in the town. Thamedown Transport managing director John Owen said, "Corporation Street is over 100 years old, built for trams not modern buses, and too small for future needs. "Traffic in Swin- TheMayor, right, with John Owen, left, and Thamesdown don is forecast to Transport directors and staff, and contractors grow at nearly double the national average and if we The new depot will have space are to avoid the very damaging fornearlyl40busesandwillhouse economic and environmental ef- all of the company's servicing, fects of gridlock in the future, it is maintenance and administration. vital we continue to improve serv- The Corporation Street site will ices, thus encouraging more peo- bere-developed as part of the New ple to use the bus instead of their Swindon Company town centre car." regeneration. A new exhibition about the history of Thamesdown Transport has opened at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery in Bath Road, Old Town, full of old photographs of scenes around the town and interesting information about public transport. Below, an electric tram passing the Milton Road baths in Faringdon Road

M.O.T. Cars • Motorcycles 01793 428430

WHO GIVES YOU SPEEDY MOT TESTING 7 DAYS A WEEK WITH NO APPOINTMENT .. AND MORE?

IWQTEST

LADIES. WOULD YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO WITI. 4 PUNCTURE? MOTest will give you a FREE wheel change demonstration on your car. Well show you how to remove your wheel trims, special locking nuts. alloy wheels, how your jack works and how to undo over-tightened wheel nuts and give you, free, a small kit of items to help you successfully change a wheel and keep your hands clean. Avoid being stuck in the future, call Clive Lamdon to arrange a convenient time.

Hawksworth Industial Estate, Swindon (close to the Oasis Leisure Centre)

Tel: 613448

More than just your local bus company

T Thamesdown WE ARE HERE

Corporation Street, Swindon SN1 1 DS

36 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Relieve aches, pains & discomfort with a magnet

Animal Portraits drawn from your favourite photograph

Many pet owners see dramatic changes in cats and dogs with stiff joints.

For a free brochure , call Vikki on 513536 , or 0779 i 960504

Humans benefit as well.

,p} v.Ioeber@virgin.net

For a full colour brochure, call 872282.

www.vikkiloeber.co.uk

PETS AT HOME Worried who will look after your pet whilst you're on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer

Would you like your pets looked after in the comfort of their home? I provide a friendly caring and professional pet sitting service for dogs, cats and caged animals. Whether you're away on holiday or just out at work all day, I can feed, walk and care for your pets.

Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only. Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 873062

Service tailored

g;-

Bowls Club AGM

Family Project AGM

Haydon Wick Bowls Club, whose members wield their woods on

The West Swindon Family & Community Project holds its AGM on Monday 1 November, 12noon at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. For details about the project's work, call 871303.

the green behind the Haydon

Centre in Thames Avenue, will be holding theirAGM in the clubhouse on Tuesday 9 November at 7.30pm. The club always welcomes new members-thirty have joined in the past two years - and anyone from the Haydon Wick area who is interested in joining can attend the meeting. Alternatively, enquiries about becoming a member can be made to Derek on 724153, Barrie on 722972 or Nigel on 336839.

IS TERINARY HOSPITAL

Abbeymeads Village Centre Elstree Way Abbeymeads Swindon Tel: (01793) 728728

For more details phone Carole on 01793 702098

sheila@hannahlightfoot.freeserve.co.uk

For offers, -'7

Thameswood Small Animal Hospital

already experiencing the effects of the menopause will meet in a relaxed informal environment on Wednesday 10 November, 7.30pm at Freshbrook Church, Worsley Road. Tea and coffee will be provided. For details call 771487.

Abbeymeads Veterinary Surgery

J ROV E

to suit your needs.

Menopause Support Women who are either starting or

Opening hours:

Mon - Fri 9am - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm Consulting hours b y appointment Mon - Fri: 9am - 10.30am; 3.30pm - 5pm; 5.30pm - 6.30pm Saturday 12noon - 3pm

24 HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - All Sunday and Emergency consults by appointment at The Drove Veterinary Hospital. Tel: (01793) 522483

Local care for local people and their pets

prices,advicea information, log on

Paradise Pets Ltd

to our web site

Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

24 hour Emergency Service ''

SK indon's most modern .small annual hospital, uttering r high quality surgical and medical care at compenm e p r ices r a caring, fi iendly and professional environment.

• •

jets' needs i n^er one roof

62 - 64 Purton Road, Swindon 3

Tel: 01793 526780 Open all day: Monday - Friday Saturday 9am - lam Consultations by appointmerfmple free parkin

•

Lots of rabbits and guinea pigs 0

enr

SHAW VETERINARY CENTRE Shaw Village Centre, Ramleaze Drive West Swindon SN5 5PY

Beautiful bearded dragons

A friendly, caring service Jr o you and your pet David Warnes BVSc MRCVS Consultations by appointment: Monday - Friday 8.30am - 7.30pm

Saturday

9.00am - 4.00pm

Hand reared baby parrots in stock

We are Wiltshire's largest independent pet store. If it's not in stock we can usually get it. Always interested in buying cage

and aviary birds and guinea-pigs.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm: Sat: 10am - 5pm: Sun: 10.30am - 4pm

Tel: (01793) 881919 (24 hours)

Tel: 01793 512400 Fax: 01793 512444

The Link Magazine • November 2004

Big breakfast raises most cash West Swindon supporters of Breakthrough Breast Cancer were up early on 15 October to serve 88 full English and Continental breakfasts, as well as supplying 107 takeaways to businesses and schools in the area. Joint organiser Eunice Salmon and Tescos. The DeVere, Blunsdon said the volunteers had served twice House and Hilton House also made as many breakfasts as last year at donations. Nicci Nyahawa's house in Nine They event raised £2,456. "We Elms. had fantastic support from friends, Most of the food served was or- neighbours, colleagues and sponganic and she thanked Sandridge, sors," said Eunice. "We could not Purton House and Easthrook have done this without their magFarms, as well as M&S, Sainsburys nificent help"

Moonwalkers prepare for next year

A bevvy of bra-wearing breakfast makers serve the Mayor of Swindon coon

Swindon's famed Twin Peaks marathon walking team is getting Peter Stoddart, from left, Eunice Salmon, Anne Hunt, Nicci Nyahawa, Pam ready to enter 2005's overnight marathon through the streets of Lentschner, Nicki Sellars London in aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer - which takes place a month later than in past years - on 18 June. The Twin Peaks team already has expressions of interest of well over 100 walkers. As many late applicants could not secure a place last year because of demand across Britain, team coordinator Eunice Salmon said you have to respond immediately after details are released by the Walk the Walk organisation. If you're thinking of taking part, mail: eunice.salmon@ntlworld.com the UK's leading cash & carry wholesaler, for details.

Fundraising Sunday 31 October

is looking to recruit warehouse assistants and cash office/admin assistant.

In aid of CLIMB (Children. Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases) in

There are full/part time positions available.

memory of Jamie Lewis Kirk who died aged 13 days in June as a result of both his parents having the 1 in 8 million chance of carrying the recessive gene for the metabolic disease nonketotic hyperglycinemia.

Ladies Day (for men as well) at Haydon Wick Farmhouse. Pond Street takes place from 11 am to 3pm. Stalls - unusual jewellery. cosmetics, hand massages. CLIMB Christmas cards, Christmas puddings and merchandise - plus tea/coffee and cakes Donations welcome. Call Janet Garrett on 727158.

?54e^ciort6

f6 us

YOUR LOCAL PVC-U MANUFACTURER • Buy direct from our factory •

'i ^'*

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I .

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Call today 01793 790944 or 07973 232435 (evenings and weekends) The Marsh, Lower Wanborough. SN4 OAS

Applications should be made in writing to: Mr P Kent. Batley's Cash & Carry Frankland Road. Blagrove Industrial Estate West Swindon SN5 8TF Bat/eys do not discriminate against men or women whatever their race, re/igion or age

38 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Take a seat in our new showroom Swindon's dining centre Also stockists of office/study furniture and lounge furniture

School first to join Waste Action Club Abbey Meads Community School is pioneering a national project in Swindon to reduce waste and get the recycling message over.

CLASSIC FINISHERS Shaw & North Swindon Tewkes

bu y

Unit 19, Bridgemead Close, Westmead Estate, Westlea, Swindon

Way Police 'O

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S tatic

westmeatl

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Eslate

C lassic Furniture Gt Western Way & Town Centre

Open Mon-Frr 9.3O wn-5 1m Sal 9-4 in

LIGHTING BUG FACTORY WAREHOUSE IN WEST SWINDON Units 16/17 Westmead Industrial Estate, Westlea, Swindon Andrew Cook centre, with Nick Gibson, George Moulton, Summer Rowland, Millie Thomas. Front, Kayleigh Turner, Ross Clark

Probably the widest selection of affordable lighting in Wiltshire Locate the Lighting Bug

Open:

p. 6

Mon to Sat 9.30am to 5.30pm Bank Holidays 10am to 4pm

}

wept Sw MOn

L,g,Thgnag

d"`

G,ea, w°sum

www.lightingbug.co.uk

_^`.

www.timberdeckingeo.co.uk T I-{E TIMBER DECKING COMPANY Your complete

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Also supplying easy to assemble Jungle Gym climbing units from only £206.90

IltiIv I I

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Launched during the school's Environmental Week in October, Swindon Council's recycling officer Andrew Cook talked to all the children in an assembly about the importance of the 3 Rs - reduce, reuse, recycle. Year 6 children then carried out a waste audit, sorting through a day's waste collected by the school caretaker, and applying their maths knowledge, weighing different materials to produce percentages and graphs. The youngsters will be explaining their findings to the school council who will then decide on a waste action plan. Andrew will return in the Spring to discuss whether the amount of waste has been reduced and how much paper, glass and plastics have been sent for recycling. The children are enthusiastic about the project. Nick Gibson said, "we need to reduce pollution and our school is going to help."

Kayleigh Turner admitted that her household did not do much recycling. She said, "it's a good idea to recycle and I will be talking at home about how we can reduce our waste and recycle paper, glass and cans." Andrew Cook said the Waste Action Club is organised by the charity Waste Watch which is collecting data on how much schools across Britain recycle. "The project is a great opportunity for children to learn about pollution, waste reduction and recycling materials. It's a message we hope they will take out into the community." Children in other year groups took part in a tree dressing competition, made leaf presses and helped paint a mural with the help of No Added Sugar. Schools who would like to carry out a waste audit and join the Waste Action Club should call Andrew Cook on 463000 or mail: acook @swindon.govv.uk

Get involved with the great outdoors Three places to volunteer for environmental activities Penhill Orchard Work Parties Saturdays 6 and 20 November, 10am to 12noon. A chance to experience this magnificent community orchard. Meet at the end of Westbury Road, Penhill. Anyone welcome to join in. Details from 331516.

< ^p

14,

6 Brindley Close, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon. Tel: 01793 488899 r►

Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm; Saturday 9am - 5pm

Peatmoor Community Woodland, West Swindon 7 November, 10am to fpm. The coppicing season starts again in this ancient woodland in the midst of the urban setting. No experience needed. Training, tools and equipment provided; wear old clothes. Details from Liz Emerson on 876654 or meet in the woods. Rushey Platt hedgerow restoration 3 November, 1pm & 7 November, 10.30am. Volunteers are needed to help complete the hedgerow restoration at the Rushy Platt Nature Reserve and along the North Wilts Canal in order to encourage a greater range of bird and wildlife. No experience needed. Training, tools and equipment provided; wear old clothes. Details from Neil Pullen 526228.

The Link Magazine • November 2004

Haydon wildlife project underway After several months planning a wildlife garden, youngsters on the Haydon Wick Junior Council have started to turn ideas into action. Having visited existing wildlife areas and possible locations, they chose to establish theirs within the leisure garden site off Pond Street. The young people of Hayden Wick were invited to submit designs and the council selected the design proposed by fellow council member Simon Dabbs of Greenmeadow, a pupil at Hreod Parkway School. On Saturday 9 October, youngsters started work by marking out the boundary of the wildlife area Simon Dabbs and Matt Cannon putting Simon's plan into action and trimming trees, installing bird boxes and sowing wild flower seeds. The bird boxes have been ac-

quired from Twigs, the Cheney Manor based voluntary organisation which provides rehabilitation opportunities through horticulture and craft activities for people experiencing emotional distress or mental ill health. Neil Pullen, Swindon Wildlife Officer for the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, has supported and advised the young environmentalists. The trust has produced leaflets to help anyone keen to establish a wildlife garden of their own. Call him on 526228 or mail: gardens@wiltshirewildlife.org

Chelworth Landscapes Fencing & Garden Maintenance

Free estimates on 01793 855800 Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Bravdon. Swindon

r\Lct'

LAN ID4'C \PII IG GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE & CONSTRUCTION

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

Contact: 01793 692687 0771 1 253508

L;;ob ile:

Why not get some help from a plant specialist and medal winning gardener Professional designs drawn to

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Imaginative planting plans for whole or pa rt of your garden

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• Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning. clearance etc For free quotation phone (01793) 750390

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IAN CURTIS LANDSCAPING n LAWN & HEDGE CU TTING PATIO & TURF LAYING

Patios • Block Paving Fencing • Decking and all other aspects of landscape work Tel: 01793 854255 Mob: 07949 341724

L-L'NDSER VE

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Garden Maintenance & Landscaping Professional care for your garden • Grass Cutting -regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & PavinO - repairs & cleaning Iledge Cutting & Pruning No Job Too Small. All works insured. y Call Martin Emer MI I lort.

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CL Timber S

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JJJI

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Tel: 01793 873630 Mobile: 0781 8430556

e-mail: davidsmith@garden-groomers.com www.garden-groomer s.com

EDEN LANDSCAPES O Paving, Walling

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Drop by or tel: 829715

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o 0 ma

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ay & Co. Chartered Management Accountants

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• 100% PURE water. No chemicals or damage to the environment. • Frames and entrance doors cleaned as standard. • Conservatories, fascias and cladding. ♦ Local, reliable, Quality service at competitive prices. • Smear and streak free windows guaranteed.

46 The Link Magazine • November 2004

Parish celebrates international community

Care at Christmas meeting

Like all the Catholic Parishes in Swindon, St. Peter's at Eastleaze has a lot of members who have come from outside England, writes Mary Wainaina-Mbeche, below, who is from Kenya. ind South Africa. In addition to Em,The Kenyan families lish, Irish, Scots and in the community also Welsh, we have peoformed a Swahili choir, ple from all the conti- introducing St. Peters nents. to some Swahili hymns On one weekend a and dance. Father year we hold an Inter- = Michael Saunders celnational Mass to celebrated part of the ebrate our internaMass in Latin. And, as tional roots. We are all he pointed out with a encouraged to come t ^ -.. 'c-._ smile at the end, "God church in our national _` / i dress, and the readings, prayers understood every word." and music come from all over the After Mass we staged an international fashion show and then world. On 25 September we were sat down to abring-and-share meal greeted in Spanish, French, Ger- made up of national dishes from man, Japanese, Filipino, Konkani all over the world. It was a won(from Goa) and Swahili. We sang derfuleveningwhich reminded all hymns from India, Nepal, Zimba- of us of Jesus' universal call to bwe, France, the USA, Kenya, reach out to the strangers among Cameroon, Rwanda, Korea, Israel us, and welcome them.

Christmas Care provides shelter, food and clothing for anyone who is alone, in need or homeless over the Christmas period. The project will run from Friday the Swindon area on Christmas 24 December until Tuesday 28 Eve. A volunteers' meeting, open to December in the Methodist Church everyone, takes place at Queens at Queens Drive. During Christmas 2003 more Drive Methodist Church on than 120 guests visited the shelter, Wednesday 17 November, 7.30pm. Dates for collection of bedding, on average 30 people slept each night and 70 turkey dinners were clothing, food and toiletries will served on Christmas Day. Parcels be listed in the December Link. For further information call of food and toys were also distributed to needy families throughout Patsy Moloney on 642368.

Christmas card sellers wanted Cards for Good Causes will be selling Christmas cards in the West Swindon Library throughout November until 18 December. Proceeds from the cards go to 25 different charities, including Barnardo's, British Heart Foundation, NCH, NSPCC, Save the Children, Samaritans. Volunteers are urgently needed to run the stall on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am to 4pm and Wednesday 10am to 1pm. To help, call Liz Boardman on 01249 709147.

Help for drug users and their families A family support service run by Druglink offers a possible life line to drug users, family members, carers and partners of users. The Family Support Group offers family members the chance to work through drug related issues in a supportive environment over a 12 week period. Another course is planned for January. For details about Druglink and the support offered, call Family Support Workers, Carol Ings or Gina Maroney on 610133.

Rainbow Holistic Reiki & Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage & Metamorphic Technique Gift Vouchers and CDs Take time to take care of yourself! Janet MICHT IIHHTReiki Master/Eacher 07796-104113

wwwneways.co.uk/rainbowho li stic

ARTMENT - COSTA BLANCA Swimming pool Sleeps up to 6 people Reasonable rates. Call 01793 700253 or visit: wwwspain-holiday-apartment.c

TfIE (UTTIt

UUB

London trained mobile hair ^/\

DISC SERVICES

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

Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758 H.O. Bath PO Box 2079 Ma nvers Street, Bath BA1 31l

ANNA ELISABETH BeautiVulhandma e wedding stationery ' ' Individually designed stationery created with exquisite materials Contact Anna on 07717 775577 or annaelisabethdesigns@yahoo.co.uk wwwannaelisabeth.co.uk

DECOTEX Painter & Decorator Specialist Artexing

stylist

Call Sue on 0779 6432700

Tel: (01793) 791388

More help needed for majorettes West Swindon based Bluebelle Majorettes has had an influx of girls during the Autumn and now has 41 on the books, which means they needs more adult volunteer trainers. " We're looking for somebody who might have been a

majorette when they were younger and would like to pass on their experience," said Bluebelles coordinator Christine Doyle. "We practice on Friday evenings at Greendown and perform at shows during the summer. Ideally the helper would be able to commit to joining us on these outings." If you can help the Bluebelles, call Christine on 852979. Christine Doyle, centre, with some of the Bluebelles

7v1aureen Scott

Double room to let

Counsellor

in family home, fully furnished, short term available,TV point, close all amenities and M4 J16, quiet location, worth a view.

Te l. 01793 72 3 676

For Beta,/s call 0/79387253/ or 07779 049840

Clairvoyant,

Heal

PIANO & THEORY LESSONS Relaxed and friendly atmosphere Beginners welcome. All ages Graded exams - not compulsory

End of term musical evenings Contact Mrs G Bush CT ABRSM Swindon 873012

Registered Childminder Experienced 7 years Flexible, friendly, negotiable rates Available Monday to Friday for school drop-offs from 6am to 9am, and pick-ups from 3pm to 9pm Also available all day on Monday. Thursday. Friday. weekends & late evenings

Call 07957 166529 or 871466

The Cleaning & Ironing Service Cleaning from £14 per house Ironing from £13 per basket Spring clean, oven clean. housekeeping Tel: 01793 875665 or 01793 541708

•

21p/w(stery

Upholstery repairs & recovering , from £ 18 Large range of materials or in your own For further details

call 01793 871808

The Link Magazine • November 2004

Gift boxes being prepared Churches, schools and local groups are busily making up Christmas presents in shoe boxes ready for this year's Operation Christmas Child. In West Swindon the partnership of churches are aiming to have at least 100 boxes filled with items which will make Christmas special for children around the world who won't be receiving much - toys, sweets, pens, pencils, paper and toiletries. If you want to make up and donate a shoe box, Di Benbow will be at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw on Friday 5 November, 10am to 12noon to receive donations. She can also be called on 881274 to arrange a collection before 10 November. Please note, each box should be accompanied by a £2 donation to cover transportation costs.

In North Swindon the Church of Christ the Servant is holding a special family and parade service on 21 November, 10.30am, to dedicate shoe boxes before they are sent away. The church will be open from Monday 15 to Friday 19 November, 10am to 2pm so that boxes can be dropped off. If this is not convenient, call Rev Brian Sweetman on 706558. Left, collecting at Holy Trinity, Shaw, froin left, Joshua West, Sarah Taylor, Sandra Herbert, Di Benbow, Jade Rodgers, Roman Maddock, Sandra Van Waveran, Harry Twine

Dance hall get together The Propect Hospice will benefit from the fifth successive Majestic Ballroom Reunion at Stratton Community Centre on Saturday 13 November. If ou enjoy the dance hall days Big Band and The Jazz Jiants will Maggie Gill, Prospect Commuof the 1940's to 60's, this is an event provide continuous dancing from nity Fundraiser, is thrilled at such for you. Harold Elmey's (Oxford) 7.30pm to 12.30am. a lovely way to raise money to

o F,vangej.

help care for people who have a

Christmas shopping bills sorted

life threatening illness and for their families. "This will be a wonderful Support the Prospect Hospice by joining their lottery and you could way to spend time with friends, win £1,000 every week until Christmas, writes Jenny Evans, Prospect enjoy some great music, and dance Lottery coordinator. the night away in aid of Prospect. Do join us." Tickets cost £14 each from Bob Lewis on 822953 or Maggie Gill on 815142 or mail: mgill@prospecthospice.org.uk

id k c

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O jWorsley Road `^f

building with people

Sunday services are at Oam & 6.30pm

For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050: e-mail: office@freshbrook.org

or visit: www.freshbook.org Life "

iG ref God is Eternal

I Romans 6

t23)

,o3 * 9 WINNERS EVERY WEEK / -Y F1 PER WEE K -Y YOUR TICKETS HERE ; EI.P YO LOCAL HO^CE

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

the Pro,A H

Pr Ho

ospect

NSBC

ospice LoffClf

Meeting at Greenmeadow Prima ry School Greenrneadow Pnma ry School

&._. ^a'^^

spice

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Lottery Dart Avenue

The lottery team, from left, Jane Page, Jenny Evans, Joan White, Mary Dixon Whitworth Rd

We cannot guarantee a win, but it's just so easy to support the Prospect. For just £1 a week you could be one of the 28 weekly winners, one of whom strikes lucky with £1,000. And even if you don't win you know that every penny of our profit from the lottery is going towards the care of the 250 local people who are helped by the Hospice every single day. Please complete the form below and return it to our office. We've always had a great response from Link readers every time it has been printed. So, think Prospect this Christmas and join now. r

-------------------

I' m a reader of The Link and I would like

Mr/Mrs/Ms ................................................................................................

-i

All Saints', Lydiard Millicent

Holy Trinity, Shaw St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze

Lililil]

Toothill Church; Westlea Church

PROSPECT Address

HOSPICE

............ I enclose a cheque for my entry (£10 suggested for 10 weeks) ............ I would prefer to pay by standing order. Please send me details.

eaooe

West Swindon & the Lydiards churches

Ito support the Prospect Hospice Lottery I

Fcr details of the Prospect Lottery, call Jenny Evans on 615870 Return to: Prospect Hospice Lottery, 12 Havelock Square, Swindon SN1 1 LE

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 770568 partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com

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CENTRE

01793 465435 Swindon S 7DL Whitehill Way, wwswindon.g w don.gov.uk/iceshow

SWindonServices E1 S â€”l'