November 2006 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

25,000

the positive news force in Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

Family favourite under threat Lower Shaw Farm could be sold for housing

Sadly, you cannot go to the ball Eve Good Fairyhmagic of Britt Eckland was not strong enough to wish away the asbestos problem at the Wyvern Theatre.

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

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Heyday's recruiting. Join now and start having the time of your life Age Concern offers guaranteed better retirement Retirement and age discrimination were big in the news in October and in the next few years, retired people will makeup half the population - a powerful vote winning section of the population who don't consider themselves old by any stretch of the imagination. After all if Sir Mick still can't get his satisfaction, it goes for a huge number of people. Now Age Concern has launched these days are looking for some- ple, 80 per cent of the 55,000 people who completed our Heyday, a not-for-profit member- thing different. ship organisation aimed at people "Heyday offers opportunity - UK wide survey into modwho want to wear flippers, not people to socialise with, ,places to ern retirement told us they slippers, and have still got years of go, subjects to learn, money to earn, think the new mandatory health and fitness tips. We'll intro- retirement age of 65 is unrocking ahead of them. "How will you live in your Hey- duce you to people who share your fair. That's why we're tak , day?," asks Jo Osorio, director of passions and we'll listen to your ing the Government to court." Age Concern Swindon. "We've views. launched this new membershi P "HeY dawith AAge e Concern is Th There are other oth g oo d rea Y

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Much loved community farm could be sold Lower Shaw Farm could be closed down if Swindon Council's Property Department plan to sell the land for housing goes ahead. The idea will be greeted with utIn 2001 it was the winner of the resource - once lost, it's gone. It's a ter dismay by thousands of people first Swindon Council Agenda 21 one off which has taken years to from Swindon and across Britain Quality of Life award forits contr i- establish. Itis sad to think of all the who have been to Lower Shaw Farm bution to Swindon as a sustainable children who might not have the since it was first set up with the community, chance to visit the farm." council's blessing 30 years ago as an Andrea, Matt, and their team of One of its tenants, Matt Holalternative conference centre and land, who has lived and worked at supporters and helpers are corncommunity resource. the farm with his wife Andrea since mitted to their role as guardians Councillor Nick Martin, Swin- 1980, is founder and organiser of and custodians of a place that don cabinet lead member for fi- the Swindon Festival of Literature, started as an experiment and benance, confirmed the farm is being which has been run from the farm came a success, a feather in Swinconsidered for sale. "The cost of for the last 14 years. It was started don's cap. providing new schools has been there and is a project of the Lower The Link's view and public mounting up; about a year ago we Shaw Farm Association. meeting date - see page 4 decided to look at disposing other Many festival events are held at assets to meet our commitments. the farm and many eminent au" We can generate about £2 mil- thors have been there. The festival lion from redevelopment of the is now considered one of the leadfarmhouse and the land. We could ing events in the town's cultural also sort out traffic congestion on calendar and derives much of its Cartwright Drive next to Brook spirit, energy and ideas from the Field school. farm's unique atmosphere.

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Matt expressed great disappointment that the council's Property Department has taken such a seemingly short-sighted, unimaginative, and solely money-orientated view of the farm's value. He said, "it looks to me as though this has been treated simply as a financial and rental matter by the Property Department. Their valuers appear to have ignored both the council's original visionary resolution, made in the early 1980s, to retain the farm in perpetuity, and its present popularity. "It strikes me that this matter requires further consultation and a closer look by professionals who have ideals, imagination, and the town's broader interests at heart. Also, the people of Swindon might like to have their say." Parent Wendy Wyatt, from Shaw, was horrified to hear the news. "Where else in a large town could you bring your children to feed chickens, collect eggs and see things growing? Both my children have a clearer understanding of the environment. "Lower Shaw Farm is a precious

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"The activities at the farm were appropriate whilst West Swindon was growing but we don't really need it any longer; it's time for a change. "The cabinet has responsibility for seeing the best return from assets and we have to make difficult decisions." The farm is leased to a trust and has become a thriving education centre and meeting place for people of all ages and backgrounds. This includes structured residential courses and recreational activities in arts and crafts, gardening and the environment, writing and reading, music and juggling, cooking and animal care. Lots of schools and pre-schools visit and the farm is used for corporate team building sessions, teacher training and meetings by a wide variety of groups from across the town and further afield. The farm is home to a Children's Project where children play safely but in an adventurous setting, and take part in environmental games, rural and seasonal crafts and story walks to see the animals.

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Swindon Council could blunder into a blinkered decision I .

There are occasions when proposals are just so wrong that they need blunt comment and what councillors decide now will have profound affect on the quality of life in the town. April 2007 is the tenth anniversary â€” of Swindon Council becoming a unitary authority. It s been a bumpy decade with Government assessors _ f ranking Swindon as one of Britain's poorest managed authorities. Over the last three years the ^, =^ present Conservative administration. with much prodding from central Government. has been making headway to get the governance of the town right, to attract economic investment and to provide better educational. health and community facilities. ^" 1r y Over the next 20 years Swindon is expected to grow by a further 35,00 0

homes and the population will rise to 250.000. No doubt Swindon Council will start thinking it s ti me to bid for city status again. Yet, if this council were to destroy what has been established at Lower Shaw Farm since 1980. what does it say about Swindon's aspirations? A town is built on solid and physical structures and also achievements. Just as important are the key teatures that make a town different, unusual. attractive and appealing, those intangible and by nature ill defined

things that give a place a wow factor.

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cause children gain experiences unavailable elsewhere. Adults are able to achieve a few moments respite from a world dominated by consumerism, media domination and strife. Swindon councillors could soon destroy something unique and bring national attention of the wrong kind to the town.

Long live Lower

Shaw

Farm

Lower Shaw Farm is one of the few places in Swindon which falls into this category. It's a place where people rediscover key basic values: the joys of being and doing things

An open afternoon for users, supporters, friends, and anyone interested in the past, present and future of Lower Shaw Farm. Come and look, listen, and talk.

together. in a setting that is truly people friendly, nature friendly and

This will be a timely reminder of what goes on at the 'farm' in the middle of

community friendly. Swindon Council is keen on rebuilding the town centre with fine

Swindon. an opportunity to celebrate its existence, and discuss its future. There may be fireworks!

architecture and attractions to draw people to it. But this bright shiny future is so superficial if Lower Shaw Farm is swept away because it does

not measure up on an arguable value for money scale.

Families and schools go there be-

Details from 771080

mail: enquiries@lowershawfarm.co.uk

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difference the moment you step inside.

the Link Magazine

Available right now:

says HOMES

Retirement Living

Swindon Publications Ltd. 71 Basepoint. Rivermead Swindon SN5 7EX Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com

www.swindonlink.com Publisher/Editor:

Roger Ogle

Editorial:

Tel: (01793) 608840

Editorial copy date for December: 7 November Published: 25 November Copy for January: 5 December Registered in England & Wales. No. 4513027. Registered Office: 130 High Street. Hungerford. Berks. Printed by pcp. Telford

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Call Nicola Norridge on (01793) 602540 advertising@swindonlink.com December bookings by 3 November The Link was first published for the West Swindon community in December 1978. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. Distribution in North Swindon commenced in January 1994." The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photo-

graphs require similar authority

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 5

Long and winding road home for Redhouse residents when major junction is closed to cars From December, Junction 6A on Thamesdown Drive, opposite the North Swindon District Centre is going to become a bus only route as originally envisaged in the Priory Vale master plan agreed between the North Swindon Development Company and Swindon Borough Council in the 1990s. At the same time Lady Lane is there are vehicles queuing to turn going to be closed at Ash Brake, right into Redhouse, when there is which means the current three also a queue on the left, trying to points of access to the eastern part get into the North Swindon Disof Redhouse will be reduced to trict Centre. Councillor Justin Tomlinson one. All traffic will come off at Junction 7 and travel along said he and coun Peter Stoddart were alarmed by the proposal. "We Eastbury Way. Many residents are not going to recognise the concerns of the highbe pleased by the long and tortu- ways engineers, but we will be ous route home, nor the increased seeking the views of residents uramount of traffic on Eastbury Way gently and calling a public meetand roads to Bridlewood Primary ing if necessary. "The majority of the complaints School. -jai Doi

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Nicola Norridge, mum of two boys at Bridlewood, who lives at Fenton Avenue, just yards from Junction 6A is not impressed. "This is an appalling decision which we were not told about when we bought our house two years ago. If we'd known about it, we certainly would not have moved there. "Not only will this devalue the property, Eastbury Way is going to become a lot more dangerous because of all the traffic coming off Thamesdown Drive. We've never experienced a problem with the junction 6A slip road; I can't see the logic in closing it. All the council have to do is adjust the traffic light timings." Mike Christmas from the North Swindon Development Company explained that the change would improve road safety. He said that the filter lane at Junction 6A was designed to accommodate a couple of small buses. "If more than four or five cars wait in the right turn filter lane, it's possible the last one might stick out into the outside lane of Thamesdown Drive." Swindon Council traffic engineers fear a serious accident at busy times involving through traffic if

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we deal with arc from residents who were not told the truth by developers before they bought their property. The Junction 6A closure only shows upon the more expensive legal searches, so the majority of people will be blissfully ignorant of the original plan. "Unfortuntately developers only tell half the story; I expect a lot of people are going to contact us when they read this." To express your view, mail: justint@tb-marketing.com or pstoddart@swindon.gov.uk

Residents want Lady Lane to close People living in Ash Brake have expressed concern at delays in closing Lady Lane. They are worried that while the road remains open there are serious safety issues. Once J6A becomes a bus only route, the lane would be a more direct route to the area around Bridlewood school than the alternative via J7. Councillors Tomlinson and Stoddart have written a letter to put pressure on the North Swindon Developm e n t Company to act.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Post Office opens at garden centre in Lydiard Millicent Since Lydiard Millicent lost its post office three years ago, the parish council has been working to re-establish the service. Council chairman Tom Fepp- "We're part of Lydiard Millicent erall said that it had been one of and we're very pleased to be helpthe most important items in the ing to offer a valuable community Parish Plan. "A village regards its service," said Mr Toomer. "I expost office, pub and church as the pectmany WestSwindon residents main focal centres. It was very will also find it convenient to pop much missed when it closed. It has in for their postal needs as we're very close." been very inconvenient." o . ^ In the long-term the parish counFinding a suitable venue for the • !. 0 new post office has proved diffi- cil would like to see a footpath cult. Fortunately, Paul Toomer of- fromthevillagetoToomers.Meanfered to make a space available as while, the Lydiard Link scheme part of major building and refur- will provide transport and Parish L bishmentatToomersGardenCen- Clerk, Rosemary Leckie, has even tre on Stone Lane which has the offered to use her six-seater car to Position opening on 13 November, thuniks to Toni Pepperell, left, advantage of free parking. do a run back and forth. post master Neville Stone and Paul Toomer New postmaster, Neville Stone

Open house

West

li brary gets

The family and childr n's areas at West Swindon LiThe West Swindon Forum next brary in Link Centre has meets on Monday 13 November, had a revamp, thanks to 7.30pm in the Link Centre corn- funding from the Paul munity suite. Hamlyn Foundation and The forum provides a meeting young mums from Tootplace for the eight Swindon coun- hill's Stoneham Housing cillors representing wards in West Project who selected the Swindon to discuss issues of rel- furnishings. evance to the community with resi- The nezvlookwasunveiled i Annc dents. Sue! grove MP on Faaiities Love All residents are welcome to at- Librnriesdny. She is pictured with tend. No agenda items had been Rebecca Bolton of the library and identified at the time of going to mums Tanya Pi r ton, Charlene press; this is your opportunity to Ferguson witli Monique, Chill, ' bring your concerns to the table. Browner w ith Amore

said he was grateful

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for Mr

Pepperall's commitment and support. "For me, running a local post office is about making a lifestyle change and offering a service to the community. I want people to feelrelaxedandtohaveafewminutestochattopeople.That'sgoing to be as rewarding for me as it is for the customers." Neville, who lives at Taw Hill, ran a specialist IT cabling business with his brother before working for Swindon Council's electoral services department. The new Toomers Garden Centre and post office reopens on 13 November with Ray's Lydiard Stompers jazzing things up.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 7

Dispersal order hope to tackle Taw Hill troubles Police should shortly be able to order groups of youngsters who have been plaguing Taw Hill residents to leave the village centre where they have been congregating in large numbers. Coun Tomlinson added, "one of Groups of young people gather- are attracted to the shop and the ing in the area to drink, smoke park and the back roads where thebiggest fr ustrationsatthemeetcannabis and ride motorcycles they can quickly disappear. This ing was that the police know there havebeen a problem for some time. has been an ongoing problem, get- are anti-social activities going on, but they are reluctant to act unless An application is being made for a ting steadily worse." He believed that the powers of a people report the problems and a dispersal order and there are hopes dispersal order and residents body of evidence is built up." that the situation will improve, At the meeting residents were The high turn out of residents at working with local police would a meeting called by local council- make a difference. Coun Tomlin- askedtosubmitinformationretrolors at the end of September son is hopeful that the youth serv- spectively so that incidents can be showed the strength of feeling in ice could involve the young peo- logged onto the police computer system and work prioritised. the area. Taw Hill resident and plc in alternative activities. Report non-emergency crime on At the meeting the police exSwindon councillor Justin Tomlinson said that many areas plained to residents that there had 08454 087000 or via: www.online.police.uk across Swindon have antisocial been administrative problems in behaviour. "In this case, the youth dealing with complaints.

Shaw dispersal limited success The dispersal order imposed at Shaw Village Centre in late September has had some effect. Local police officers report young people are not gathering in large numbers to cause noise and aggravate people using the shops. PCSO Amanda Luker said two parents had called her to discuss what they needed to tell their children. However a resident of George Tweed Gardens was surprised to see the Swindon Youth Service Mobie mini-bus parked nearby one evening in October. A large number of young people were attracted, as well as noisy scooters in the road outside the group dwelling.

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Three young people from Freshbrook who attacked PC Paul Matthews with a knife last February received a range of sentences on 2 October. Leon Morris was given a 4 month prison sentence. Paul Sturrock and Garvey Kelly were ordered to do unpaid work in the community.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Links together help Freshbrook pupil regain mobility Staff at the Link Centre had been "Naomi is delighted trying to trace the owner of a and the whole child's wheelchair dumped out- school is over the side the building in September moon. We wheeled but had no clues until they read the chair into assembly and there was an last month's Link. The chair had been missing since almighty cheer. It's a serious break-in at Freshbrook great that the chilPrimary School in August, just be- dren have their prifore term started. It's used daily by orities right; they 8 year old Naomi Little, who has were much more physical disabilities which has concerned about the meant several operations already theft of the wheelchair than the stolen with more to come. She said that for three weeks she laptops." was unable to do everything she normally does. "I managed to get thank the staff at round school alright, but I missed Link Centre and the my wheelchair in the playground young people who because I get tired if I walk too far." found it. But we're Headteacher Jan Milsom said, still furious thatpeo" We'd

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ple in our community would do such a terrible thing to their local school. There are Freshbrook residents who know who did this and we're asking them to report the culprits. "The police are going to come in and talk to the children about this because they were horrified by the attack on their school. They want to see the perpetrators caught and dealt with." Naomi's classmate Connor Boyd said, "all our school was shocked that the school was broken into

and there was so much damage. It was terrible that they took the wheelchair. Why did they do it?"

Naomi uuitli Freshbrook School classmates acid lieadtencher Jan Milsoni

Youth club under threat from vandal attacks A Toothill youth club has again been attacked by vandals and the volunteer organisers are seriously considering whether its worth carrying on. In the September Link Mavis units, emptied cupboards and nies like Motorola, BP ReedofToothillJuniorYouthClub smeared cans of beans and sau- and Cap Gemini. "But how can we expressed dismay that their base sages on the floor. ^ d . r "After securing the use of the carry on if we get these at Toothill Farm social hall had ^ been attacked and a garden play- farm from Swindon CCouncilafter break-ins every few months of uncertainty last year, weeks? It's just wanhouse damaged. On 8 October the hall and the we've really been making progress ton vandalism. "All the volunteers adjacent farm house, which is cur- with the club," said Mavis. "The rently empty, were broken into, range of activities for local young give their time to the 1 am Vandals indiscriminately smashed people is growing and we've been community for noth'^ ^$ ► romcom a- ing and they're re really attractin lots help from windows, pulled ulleddoorsoffkitchen attracting ^^►r, disheartened about this. I don't know how much we can take." r Mavis Reed surveying the darns e ► I ► I ^_ _

Police get ahead in crime busting Police in Swindon are the first in the county to use small hands free cameras in an effort to tackle anti-social behaviour, incidents of alcohol related crime and disorder. Officers are now going out on late evening patrol across the town nearing 'head-cams,' a lightweight camera worn at eye level at the side of the head, linked to a small screen and video recorder worn on the belt. The camera is clearly visible and people will know they are likely to be filmed on the street. Recordings can also be downloaded onto a compu ter and each frame is tamper proof watermarked so that footage can be used as evidence in court. West Swindon team sergeant Nick John said, "head-cams have produced positive results in other parts of the country in dealing with incidents of anti-social behaviour, I lead cam models, Sergeant Nick John alcohol-related crime and disorand PCSO Amanda Luker der in public places. He added that the equipment "We want to show incidents captured on camera to perpetrators so will not be used for covert purthey can see the impact of their poses by plain clothes officers. Funding for the new equipment actions. Where appropriate, we intend to show parents what their has been provided by the Swindon Community Safety Partnership. children have been involved in."

A spectacular launch to the Christmas season promised Last year The Town Centre Management Team went all magical with a Harry Potter themed night. Actors from the first Harry Potter movie and look-a-likes from the field of Harry Potter charmed the 'Light Switch On' audience with magic, mystery and wizardry. A 4.000 strong crowd, were also entertained with wandering wizards. pyrotechnics, laser shows, and digital imagery across varying town centre sites. Stephenie Tully from the Swindon Town Centre Management Team describes this year's great start to the Christmas shopping season at the end of November. The Town Centre Management have teamed up with The Bible Society and GWRfm to create a community led Christmas. We're planning an Angelic Christmas with a contemporary lights switch on, so why not come along and get involved? Our favourite radio station GWRfm and their fantastic DJ's will be with us on the night. Their crew will be launching the lights switch on from under the Parade Canopy on 23rd November at 6.30pm for a 7pm switch on. But what about that all i mportant question, who is turning the lights on? Because we want to support our local community we will be joined by our home grown sporting heroes. You will get to meet our great Olympians and our tremendous European Champions... and also some of your major local teams. There will be Jaime King, Jamie Cox, Jazz Carlin and our youngest star... Ryan Embling. Of course not forgetting the Swindon Wildcats and Swindon Robins speedway

team. Together we can make it a great community night and switch on event. If you are not able to attend the Lights Switch On, then join the throng of choirs singing carols around our traditional Christmas tree at Regent Circus. Why not telephone one of the team and bring your choir in. You could also listen out for the angel themed songs being played on the town's unique speaking Jubilee Clock. Late night shopping begins on the 23rd November, so grab the opportunity to browse around the shops and do a little early Christmas shopping... Christmas Day is not that far away really. The whole team look forward to seeing you on the 23rd.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Survivor wants to encourage all women to be more breast aware A breast cancer survivor from Toothill met up with her consultant in October to promote the Cancer Research UK's All Women Together Campaign. Holding a single pink and 8 gram, the family's Women Together camwhite roses, Julie Armstrong, 44, fears were confirmed. paign publicised breast from Kirkstall Close, said the flow- Julie said she was devawareness throughout ers symbolised the one in nine astated by the idea of ° October with pinkwomen who get breast cancer. losing abreastandunthemed fundraising ac"The pink rose really brought dergoingradicaltreattivities. home how many people get breast ment. After Julie received cancer but I am living proof that "Cancer hadn'teven her diagnosis a number there are effective treatments for crossed my mind, al ^i of colleagues at the disease. though my daughters Wilkinson had their 1 "Sadly, not everyone survives were thinking the heads shaved to raise which is why I support Cancer worst. I have never money for the charity. Research UK's All Women To- thought about cancer, Julie said, "I can't thank gether campaign, to highlight the so I was confused and them enough for their support. The help they need for more research." shocked. There was so Julie was diagnosed with breast much information to have given to Cancer Research UK is brilliant." cancer on her birthday in April take in but I couldn't Dr Kandy Kandiah 2005. She underwent a mastec- stop thinking about said, "Julie is a wondertomy, reconstruction and a course how odd itwould look ' fully positive lady and of chemotherapy. to not have a breast. this must have helped Motherof five Julie said the lump "My consultant Mr her with her treatment. she found made for a very worry- Galea was marvellous, Julie Armstrong and her daughters Charlcnc, Cherie and She is a lovely, lovely ing birthday. "I asked my daugh- explaining everything Kelly zvith GWH consultant Marcus Galea. person." ter Charlene to look at it because clearly and helping me Julie's sons Kyle and Dane refused to pose in pin • Cancer Research UKis she had read a leaflet about self- understand what was organising a family fun day and examination and what to look for, going to happen." about trivial things. We went down to the NHS WalkA year on from her chemo"I have been lucky and my story Autumn Walk Together on 5 NoIn Centre as it was the weekend. therapy, Julie is positive about the highlights how we should a ll be vember at Westonbirt Arboretum, The nurse there said I should go future. "I try not to let little things aware of our bodies and regularly nearTetbury. For details call01454 and see my GP Dr Kandiah at bother me, you realise there is so check our breasts whatever our 454800. www.cancerresearchuk.org/ Sparcells.Heimmediately referred much more to life and time is too age." breastcancer me to the Great Western Hospital precious to spend it worrying Cancer Research UK's All and I was seen in a week." After a biopsy and a mammo-S

Second helpings for dinner lady

Famous School Dinner Lady, Jeannette Orrey, the inspiration behind Jamie Oliver's high profile campaign gave Swindon's school dinner service a good report when she was guest speaker at the to people's lives? Transforming School Food conference. Do you have an NVQ Level2 will be given to all 7 to Jeannette, right, spoke at a school dinners began when in Care? 11 year olds next term. meals seminar organised by The competitive tendering Do you have your own motor The pack features bad Link in conjunction with Let's Do was introduced and transport? cartoon characters such , '°^ We are looking for very special people Lunch and the Soil Association in guidelines removed. as Nasty Nick the NugJeannette is passion2005. Twelve months later, she said to join our team of get and good characters ate about reintroducshe was encouraged by what she BANK STAFF • such as Kelvin Carrot had seen in Swindon. In particu- ing hot meals even if a to undertake care work in the and includes games and lar, she praised an information school does not have a t community especially evenings. activities designed by pack which will be distributed to kitchen, She said that ;: and weekends Katie Bell. food produced in cenall KS2 pupils across the town, Swindon 1 Wood Street Councillor Garry Since September, the Govern- traltmitscanbethean- Perkins, Cabinet Memment's food standards for school swer but stressed the lunches have become law, i mportance of such units being lo- her for Children's Services, acTelephone 01793 542285 Jeannette backed the standards, cal. At present, some schools in knowledged the difficulties of imfor an application pack savinQ that problems with school Swindon have food brought in proving school meals. "Long term, from as far away as Peterborough. all Swindon schools will have hot She said, "we've had 20 years of meal provision—whether they take under investment in school kitch- it from their own kitchens or Ptulon House ens so it's very difficult to all of a whether they work in a cluster J ^ ^t t^ Church End sudden implement things. A lot of group." F He hoped to see schools with those kitchens are now classrooms t'h^ ` ^`^t^l "•' Yurton, Swindon Do you want to make a di/ference

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or IT suites." "I would like to see everyone on a hot meal. It is an important meal in the day for children. If you eat good quality food, and a hot meal, you're more likely to learn." The conference was funded from a £108,000 Government grant to the council to provide advice and guidance on nutritious school meals. As part of their campaign to raise awareness of nutritious lunches, a new Funky Five pack

good practice working with other schools in the area. "After all it will be part of Ofsted inspections in 2009 for primaries and 2010 for secondaries — so it isn't an option. We want to get ahead of the game." Conn Perkins is keen to encourage parents to apply for free school meals if they are eligible. He explained that, because of the way that school funding is calculated, it is a benefit if all those entitled to free school meals apply.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 11

Sharing breastfeeding know how Even though some support services for breast feeding mothers are to be axed, Abbey Meads Breast Mates are ready to help mums with babes. They meet at Christ the Servant Church on Mondays, 12.30pm to 2.30pm. The drop-in sessions give new mothers a chance to meet others who have experience of breastfeeding and to make new friends said group member Liz Austin. "You're there as a new mum and it's good to talk to people who've been there and done it. We also have a health visitor present so you can chat without having to go to the clinic." Breast Mates is a peer support group which trains breastfeeding

mothers to support others. Liz was among the second group of peer supporters to complete their training and now the third batch is due to start the 6 week course. Some of the first peer supporters still help, but the majority have gone back to work or moved on. Group member, Kate Tredgett said, "this continuous evolution suits the group well and means there is always a mix of experience and babies of various ages." For details call health visitor, Anne Seymour on 723392.

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On a journey at Abbey Meads Where do we fit in the world? was the big question Abbey Meads children tackled during a special geography week at the end of September. Pupils worked on handmade "It was a terrific week because learned that I'm not far from school / books of their route to school, tried , -^^ 0 we all did so many things and and to remember to turn at places orienteering, visited Steam and P have been able to go out and ex- that are landmarks. I li ked going learned more about Brunel. -;,, '' plore how rich our local environ- to the theatre the best." Classes will move onto topics ^ „- . nn •' a merit is. I t' s all here; you don't Year 5 teacher Nicky Col an about other parts of the world co-ordinated the activities. We have to go an y where else." • Year 6 pupil Lydia Walker, said, which they'lI compare to Swindon. wanted children to understand "I liked going to STEAM. I liked all why Swindon is here and how it's ! the trains because you could go developed, and also to be able to 4 0. Open Mornings at Abbey Meads inside the engines and the carsee their place as people of Swin'. Community Primary riages. We had a workshop there Headteacher Marilyn Brown will be don in the world. We felt it was # and I dressed up as a lady who giving parent and guardian tours of y best to start here before we moved didn't want to have the railway school at 9.30am on Fridays 3rd. on. Shanrron Gee andMattlrezoOzoens show off their walk to school route books

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Orchid Vale a hive of artistic activity Pupils at Orchid Vale Primary were buzzing with enthusiasm when they created artworks to decorate their new building in Haydon End. Eccentric Professor Hector

Working with artist Toni Robinson of No Added Sugar, all the children were involved in the week-long project in mid-September with help from Hreod Parkway Year 11 pupils. Headteacher Debbie Kalynka was delighted with the finished pieces and the way the children had been able to get to know each other while working together. "The children and staff were all new and the project was about forming relationships and making friends." The inspiration for the project came from the school's motif, Orchis Morio, the rare green-winged orchid, that flowers in a Site of Special Scientific Interest nearby. Mrs Kalynka said, "all our classes are named after insects: we have butterflies, caterpillars, bumble bees and they used this theme throughout the week." Charlie Quince, 9, said, "we a ll made many friends. We made a welcome sign and the insects we painted are really cool and they're all colourful."

Humphries discovered Orchid Vale in mid-October whilst on a quest for the cven more rare Amazonian black orchid. He said, "I heard that there were some orchid experts in Swindon and they were really blooming good. " Whilst in school the Prof. told children of his adventures and discoveries and helped them with map rending work. Left, Charlie Brittan, Edmm n do Bodero and Bethany Galt assisting the professor plot his nail into the Amazon in search ofhis rare orchid

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Greendown's best ever results boost bid for specialist status A bid by Greendown Community School in Grange Park to become a specialist school in Maths, Computing and Sport was submitted in October with the backing of three of the town's largest companies. Sarjent. "We had to do four-year A decision from the Department plans for KS3 and KS4 and plans for Education and Skills is expected involving our community partin January and if successful will ners. We have to be very specific mean futuristic resources andbenabout where money is going to be efits to the West Swindon commuspent. nity. Funds and offers of help "Maths and science have always worth ÂŁ56,000 from RWEnpower been strong subjects at Greendown and Lucent Technologies of Windbut other curriculum areas are now mill Hill Business Park and conequally good. We have a very enstruction firm Hochtief will be thusiastic and committed staff and matched by the DfES. good communications and relaThe money will be used for a tionships with parents." state-of-the-art independent learnThe school's progress is reflected ing centre, a fitness suite and new in this year's best ever results. At technology across the school such KS3, Maths and Science were paras whiteboards and computers. ticularly strong. Over 55 per cent The learning centre will feature 60 of pupils gained five or more desks with pop-up laptops built grades A to C in this year's GCSEs. in. Of note was Matthew Kelly who Equipment for the ICT room has to be spent in the community. "The application for specialist been received and nPower are to Projects in local primary schools, status has taken two years to pre- gained 9 A*. Overall, Greendown is in the top refurbish a classroom to be used at Freshbrook Community Centre pare and we're all very excited for teaching PE theory for GCSE. and George Tweed Gardens shel- about the prospects and opportu- 25 per cent in the country in terms Specialist status also attracts an tered accommodation have been nities to be created," said of the educational value added Greendown's Head of Maths, Gill during a child's time at the school. annual grant, a third of which has identified.

Bringing languages to life at Westlea Youngsters from Westlea School have been putting their French into practice during a week-long stay in a Normandy chateau. With two years of French les- bound type activities and made an targets. All primaries are expected sentences, follow a conversation to offer a language to all KS2 pu- and have a range of vocabulary." sons under their belts, the young- excursion to Mont St Michel. Unfortunately, youngsters who Westlea has embraced language pils by 2010. sters were able to use their French Specialist teacher, Louise Miles, go to Greendown will not be able in real situations. They visited a teaching well in advance of Govmarket, took part in outward ernment Framework for Language joined the school four years ago to to continue French lessons in Year develop language delivery. Since 7. The secondary school has deL S2PuP ils have cided to offer Spanish because chilast Sep tember all K I had one hour of French a week. dren arrive with very different levThe school is now working towards els of French. They will, however, individual class teachers being re- be able to practice their French at after-school and lunchtime clubs sponsible for the subject. "Every single child from age 7 to and will have the option to take 11 has such enthusiasm to do French again in Year 8. hn response to a drop in the French work," said Ms Miles. "Some who struggle in English and number of GCSE pupils studying other subjects, come alive in French languages the Government is rebecause they all started from the viewing its decision to make it same point. By the time they leave, optional. Westlea youngsters will For the latest cut, we should be able to write some be well prepared.

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To mark the European Daii of Languages in early October, pupils at Toothill's Oliver Tonnkirns Junior School z oo/ca range of national cos tunnes. The aim of the day is to celebrate languages and language learning so the whole school got dozen to practising their French counting. They also learned how to salt hello and goodbye in as many languages as possible. At an end of the dal assembly each class presented work they had done.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 15

New build, new name on the cards for Hreod, plus hints of royal opening Parents at an open evening in early October for next year's intake at Hreod Parkway heard the school will have a different logo when it moves into its new building next Easter. Headteacher Andrew Fleet said that the school was working on rebranding itself. There was a suggestion that there will also be a new name, but all will be revealed by the new year. Work on the building topped by a steel dome covering a glass fronted atrium is progressing well. Contractors will leave the site by Christmas to allow for a three month fitting out period. The school is then handed over to Swindon Council. Mr Fleet said a great deal of logistical planning is taking place to bring together 1,300 children and 160 staff from two sites, ready to start the summer term in April. The Mayor of Swindon coun Mike Bawden toured North Swindon's new schools in early October with the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire John Bush OBE. His office confirmed that a royal opening at one of schools in North Swindon next year might be a possibility but the matter would have to be considered in more detail. If agreed it will the first new Hreod parents and staff, on a tour of the fantastic looking covered central atrium given by contractors Laing O'Rourke in royal opening of a Swindon school October. Deputy head teacher Torn Wilkes, right, said that everybody involved with the school has become increasingly excited in 20 years since Princess Anne about the educational opportunities there will be for pupils and the community. The school, recently made a Science, Maths came to Greendown in April 1987. and Computer specialist college, will be setting up the @Hreod IT training suite for adults within the new building.

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Leap of faith by families signing up for Isambard The hall at Red Oaks Primary was packed at an open evening in early October by families whose children could be the first intake at Isambard Community School which opens next September. There were no brochures, no staff and no tour of the building. Decisions had to be made on the basis of the presentation by headteacher Rachel Mattey. She set out her vision for the school, talking about an accelerated Key Stage 2 and taking GCSEs in one year instead of two. Her hopes for language teaching created a buzz of interest. To allow students to communicate around the world, she would like to see Spanish, Arabic and Mandarin on offer, alongside French. In response to parents' concerns that the children would be the only year in the school, the head said, "I think the benefits of being the first cohort through, far outweigh the disadvantages." She explained that they would have the special status of being the first through the school and have responsibility for setting its tone. Ms Mattey wi ll be based at the North Swindon Learning Campus building in November. She expects to appoint key staff from Easter and by September there will be eleven teachers. Laura Kewell, has a child who would be in the second year of intake. She said, "I was quite im-

pressed, but I'm glad I dori t have to decide this year." Even though they are taking a step into the unkno v n, it seems that high numbers of parents ar happy to sign up. Staff from the Swindon LEA admissions are predicting that the school will be i~` over subscribed. Ten year old Clare Blundell said, "it'll be a chance to do something different and always be the oldes t Rachel Mattey by The

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Brimming with excitement Headteacher of Brimble Hill Special School Bob Walker will fulfil a personal ambition when he takes possession of the school's first purpose built premises on the Learning Campus in Priory Vale in November.

The Hilton Hotel on Great Western Way has raised £2,884 for library books at the new Brimble Hill School. Bob Walker, centre right, receives a cheque from hotel manager Chris Sherman, in early October, with children and staff

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The school started life in an old hospital at Wroughton in the 1970s and moved to a converted primary school in Park North in 1985. Mr Walker is proud to have been involved in the design for the new school over the last five years. Wider corridors will make manoeuvring wheelchairs easier and every room has hoists to help position children. It will include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms and speech and physiotherapy facilities to be shared with Uplands Secondary Special School which will be located in an adjacent building. The time saved by having a pool on site will mean that all children will be able to swim at least once a week.

Mr Walker said that the children don't realise what the move will mean as they have not yet visited the site. "The concept will dawn on them when they arrive on the first day. Then there'll be awe and wonder. I think it'll give them a real buzz." He expects that the children will settle in quicker than the staff. "Because of their learning dif fi culties, our children tend to live for the day. But we're all so excited about the fantastic facilities and the learning potential before us." Staff will start preparing the new school from 1 November ready for the pupils to arrive on Wednesday 8 November, after a longer than usual half term break. A big balloon launch is planned.

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 17

Looking forward to new build in Toothill Toothill Primary School's motley collection of derelict mobile classrooms were swept away during the summer holidays.

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On the former mobiles site, head Marl/u Cowell with Samantha Blackman, Misbah Al Hassan, Ricardo Teixeira, Hannah Platteu, Liam Graham, Rhys Bury

Now the community is looking forward to the crumbling 26 year old main building going the same way, says headteacher Martin Cowell. "Losing the mobiles has created problems because they were useful storage. But it's all for the good in the longer term. "The governors and staff have worked closely with council architects to come up with an innovative design for our new building which will give Toothill children the best educational opportunities." He added that the removal of the mobiles had coincided with an

upturn in the number of children enrolling with the school. Governor Yvonne Bowden said there is growing excitement in Toothill about the new school. "We really want the extra community access facilities now being built into schools to provide a strong focal point for our area." • In Freshbrook a joint working group made up of governors from Freshbrook and Windmill Hill Schools to plan how the schools are to be combined - following Swindon Council's decision in July - met for the first time in October.

Do your homework for parents' evening Parents will soon be invited into primary schools to chat to teachers about children's progress, but so often you come away not finding out what you need to know. Kip McGrath tutor, David Parkinson, offers advice on preparing to meet your child's teacher. He writes:

The key thing to remember is that, like the teacher, you have an indepth knowledge of the subject of the meeting— your child. The meeting is as much for you to discuss what is happening with him or her you are not just there to listen." • Talk to your child about how they feel about school and ask them to suggest questions; • Take notes of any questions or comments with you and make notes during the meeting; • Check whether your child is expected to be there; • Always turn up on time and try not to overrun; • Be prepared to listen and don't jump to conclusions or criticise the teacher; • Ask questions clearly and don't be embarrassed to say you don't agree with something; • Take a family member or friend

with you if you think a meeting might be difficult; • Ask for details about how your child is doing. Ask which level your child should be achieving. Are they at that level? What level were they at this time last year? Have they made the required progress? Swindon LEA wants every school to aim to progress a child without any identified learning difficulties across two national curriculum sub-levels each year. For example, this would translate to a move from 2c to 2a or from 2a to 3b over a year; • Ask for targets set for your child and ask how you can help them i mprove. Kip McGrath offers free advice on educational matters and free assessments to accurately assess your child's current level. Call Andrea and David Parkinson at on 728481 or mail: mail@ kipswindon.com

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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A father and toddler group has been launched at Abbey Meads. Health visitor Juliana Ridsdale be an opportunity for parents to said more families are finding ways linkup and support each other." to share childcare between two She hopes that once established, working parents and there has members will take over the runbeen an increase in the number of ning of the group. There is a possimen taking sole care of their chil- bility of arranging speakers on dren. subjects such as car seats or baby "There is a need in the area for massage if the members are intera place for dads to go with their ested. Also in the pipeline is a pre-school children as some fathers Swindon Dads website The drop-in sessions are held at can feel uncomfortable at mother and toddler groups. Christ the Servant Church, Abbey "We need to be aware that more Meads village centre on Fridays, dads are involved and they have 12.15pm to 1.45pm during term mentioned that they feel a little left time. For information call Juliana on out. This group will give them the chance to chat about things. It will 723392.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 19

Foul conditions force creche closure After only three months, a creche at the North Swindon centre has closed because of problems with their meeting space.

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"When we received the bill deSarah Bannon and Catherine Neate, who run Mini Musicians, manding over £3,000 in rent for had so many requests from par- the next four months, we decided ents for creche facilities that they to walkaway. The council hasbeen decided to set up in the Under- promising that the problems will ground youth centre, which is be fixed, but there has been little owned by Swindon Council Youth action. "I'm sorry for the mums who Service. She said the idea of providing joined the gym nearby on the basis this service to the community had of a creche, and now we can't be great promise but it turned out to there for them." Councillor Justin Tomlinson was be a catalogue of disasters. On eight occasions over the first instrumental in bringing Mini twelve weeks, her staff arrived to Musicians to the Underground. He find the rooms unusable. They had said, "it is a real shame that the to turn parents away because of a building wasn't suitable for their leaking air conditioning unit, long term use. However I am smelly toilets and dirty conditions pleased that they will continue to after the previous night's youth use many other council facilities such as the North Swindon Library club. Sarah said that she has lost thou- as their service is extremely popusands of pounds as staff and tutors lar with local parents." still had to be paid for cancelled Mini Musicians courses continue sessions. "The council has offered to run in the library and Sarah is reduced rent but it in no way com- looking for a new venue for the pensates for the losses we've been creche. Call her on 638495 if you can help. taking.

SUPERB FACILITIES Bright Start Day Nursery offers:

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Staying at home with a young baby can be wonderful, but the conversation isn't great and daytime TV isn't everyone's cup of tea. The good news is that a new support group at Abbey Meads is the perfect place to meet other mums, have a chat and take some time out. Looking after little ones can leave new mums feeling isolated, especially in the winter months when it is often more difficult to get out. The drop in sessions are an ideal way to get together, find support from others and make new friends. The drop-in group, with creche, runs during term time on Thursdays, fpm to 2.30pm at Abbey Meads Primary School. For details call Roxy

I I I

q Monday - Friday 8am till 6pm all year q Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds - am, pm, school day, all day q Rea/ value /ormoney. From £144 per week full time

q Funded child-care credits available.""

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Free nursery sessions for 2.5 hours per day worth £40 per week Monday - Friday during term time for funded 3 & 4 year olds*

20th Anniversary Celebration Greendown Playgroup is holding an Auction and Disco at Greendown School on Saturday 25 November, 7.30pm - 10.30pm

For further information or to arrange a visit, call Alison on 877779 or 484934

A family ticket costs £10. available on the night or in advance from 882234 The playgroup is keen to hear from previous staff, parents or children that were involved in setting up and running the group in the early years. Mail: tracyoconnor668@fsmail.net

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Nursery has places at no charge 1

Moredon Primary School has a number of places in its brand new nursery and parents are being invited to come and have a look round. Children aged 4 between 1 Septermber 2006 and 31 August 2007 are eligible. For details and to arrange a visit call the school on 600444.

Ole

• •

MOT TESTING AND REPAIRS

Right, nursery teacher Hilary Poole with Macaulay Cox and Courtney Dodson

EXHAUST TYRES

AND

Broadening the outlook for babies A new mother and baby weaner group is being opened by health visitor Mary Lee at Moredon Nursery in November on Mondays 9.30am to 1 1 .30am. A parent and toddler group is also being planned. For details about joining, call Mary on 342047 or Tracy McGrory on 600344.

BATTERIES

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Parents will have a one-stop drop off for their school age and preschool children in Moredon from January. Moredon Primary School has purpose built facilities for 'wrap around care' so that children can be looked after from 8am to 6pm. The Big A Club will be providing the service, where staff will take children to and from pre-school and school in the Moredon area and look after them for the rest of the day. Tracey Bailey of the Big said the cost is competitive because the care service is on site and room rent is low. "It's an advantage to be able to go to the school that they'll attend the following year so that they can make friends. It's the children's free time so we have fun activities; there is a structure but it's up to them what they do." The Big A is holding an open week from 6 November. Families are welcome to drop in from 8.30am to 2.45pm to have a look round and discuss bookings. Call Tracey on 875992 or see www.thebigaclub.coni

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Sue Palmer, author of Toxic Childhood spoke to a group of nursery teachers in Swindon in September, a week after she made headlines by provoking a debate on childhood in this country. • Eat as a family as often She setout to get peoas you possibly can; pie talking by writing a Make sure your child letter to the Daily Telgets plenty of opportuniegrap)rwhichwassigned ti es to play; by 110 experts. .., ' "- • Establish and keep to a Sue, right, believes regular. restful bedtime that the modern world routine: is damaging our chil Make plenty of time to dren. She says that a toxic lifestyle fuelled by % talk — and listen — to your our consumer culture is the reason child, behind the increase in behavioural • Do everything you canto forge a strong family base for your child; and emotional problems. "Parents need to know how • Good childcare should be the modern life can interfere with chil- equivalent of a happy home; dreri s normal development and • Ensure your child gets a balhow, with small adjustments to anced primary education; their chidren's lifestyles they can • Protect your child from aggresimprove their off-springs' well- sive marketing, celebrity culture being, behaviour and success at and poor role models; school." • Monitor and mediate all your You don't have to recruit a su- child's screen-based activities, per nanny to help you tune up keeping TVs and other electronic family life. Having spent three equipment in family space; Aim for 'authoritative parenting' years researching the subject, Sue has the following tips for a hap- — a balance of warmth and firmness. pier and healthier childhood.

SWINDON & CRICKLADE RAILWAY SANTA SPECIALS Saturda}-y 25th & Sunda 26th November llam-4pm Blunsdon Station

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

Britt's magic cannot wish away the problems Christmas is not going to be same in Swindon after the Wyvern Theatre and Swindon Council announced on 1 7 October that the theatre will be unable to open forthe Work on clearing out asbestos above the auditorium

stalled and the theatre pre-

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The council considered setting up a big top tent in the car park. but the cost,

Fireworks and bonfires

Friday 3 November. Gates 5.15pm; bonfire 6pm: fireworks 6.30pm West/ea Primary School Langston Way, West/ea £3.50 adult; £2.50 children Pre-school children free £10 family ticket in advance only from school office

the ball.

Britt and Cinders (Lucy Sinc/ai() in happier times, launching the panto atLydiard In July

Thursday 2 November. Bonfire and fireworks. 5.30pm - 7.30pm Brook Field Primary School Cartwright Drive, Shaw £3.50 adult; £2.50 children: £10 family

NORTH

cannot be completed in time to allow seating to be reinpared for the production. Bond babe Britt Eckland was due to play the good fairy in Cinderella, but sadly, this time nobody is going to

annual panto spectacular.

Tadpole Lane Tel: 771615 Trains: 11 am 4pm cafe. shop and `ree parking

A full scale refurbishment of the Wyvern costing £1 .2 million is now proposed. If agreed by Swindon's cabinet it will mean a 6 to 8 month closure.

07710 298790 www.hirehats.co.uk For an appointment to buy your winter hat or hire a hat for that special occasion

tacular and Fair Po lo Ground. Marlboro ugh Road Proceeds to be used by the Lions Club for charitable causes. Tickets in advance: £3.50 adult; £1.50 children/seniors, from Swindon Information Centre. Regent Street and other outlets On the gate: £5 adult: £2 children/seniors Free park & ride at Nationwide car park. Pipers Way. No street

parking Sunday 5 November. Fireworks 6.30pm. Nine Elms Pub. Shaw Refreshments available at all events. Do not bring fireworks or spark/ers with you

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Swindon Film Festival, 10 • 19 November

Tickets from Swindon Information Centre (01793) 466454 and www.swindonfilmfestival.co.uk Information correct at the time of going to press. See web site for announcements and last minute surprises.

Friday 10 November, 7.45pm. Town Ha// Studios Going for the Kill Luke Holland. documentary filmmaker, introduces his acclaimed film made for BBC Storyville about the impact of the foxhunting ban on rural communities. £5 include director's Q&A Saturday 11 November, 11am - 3pm. The National Trust Churchward The World of Peter Rabbit and Friends Visit The National Trust's Christmas Fair, where you can try local crafts and produce, and watch the filmic creations of Beatrix Potter, one of the Trust's benefactors and the person after whom the new headquarters were named. Free Saturday 11 November, 7.45pm.

Wednesday 15 November, 7.45pm. Arts Centre Tickets (15) Three of the world's leading realist directors (Italian Ermanno Olmi, Iranian Abbas Kiarostami and British Ken Loach) Lewd and rude atLydiard House collaborate on this film about interconnecting lives on a train travelling through Central Europe. £4 Swindon Film Society members (membership £2). Non-members £5

C,hewor/d Greenbridge Hollywoodland Special advance preview of the award-winning film about the mysterious death of TVs Superman, George Reeves. Set in the underbelly of 1950's Hollywood the film features stunning performances by Adrien Brody. Ben Affleck and Bob Hoskins. £6

CCAY{4^uldlfrn,

Sunday 12 November, 6.30pm.

Town Hall Studios District B13 (15). A live B-Boyin' show with some of the South West's k il top breakdancers followed by a Hollywood/and screening of District 13, an action

packed film featuring a scorching hip hop soundtrack and an explosive mix of free running and spectacular action. £4 Monday 13 November 7.45pm, University of Bath. Oakfie/d Campus.

It's Nice Up North Graham Fellows (aka John Shuttleworth) makes a rare appearance in Swindon to introduce his spoof documentary following our favourite singer/ organist's quest to find out if people really are nice up north! £7 includes Q&A with Graham Fellows

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Tuesday 14 November, 7.45pm. The Apartment Office Space (15) Peter works in an office, hates his job, is going to do something about it... For anyone who has ever worked in an office, this is the ultimate answer! Let your hair down with a drink and Mike Judge's (Beavis & Butthead) hilarious comedy. Free

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Thursday 16 November, 7.15pm. LydiardHouse The Libertine (18) Johnny Depp stars as the debauched John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester. one of Lydiard's most notorious family members. Watch this excellent (but explicit) film, see Wilmot's portrait hanging in the house: take a tour and soak up the atmosphere. £5 Friday 17 November, 7.15pm. University of Bath, Oakfield Campus Soy Cuba An astonishing and recently rediscovered masterpiece features some of the most extraordinary camerawork in film history. A blatant piece of communist propaganda. the film dramatises the rise of the Cuban revolution in breathtaking style. £5 includes talk. Saturday 18 November, 1 pm. Arts Centre The Story of the Weeping Camel (U) This enchanting Oscar nominated fil m follows the adventures of a family of herders in Mongolia's Gobi region. Uniquely composed of equal parts reality, drama and magic, the story provides a heart-warming window into a different way of life. £4 Saturday 18 November, 3.30pm. Arts Centre Dogtown and Z-Boys (15) Stacey Peralta's brilliant documentary about the origins and culture of skateboarding in 1970's Southern California. Amazing footage. contemporary interviews, awesome soundtrack. £4 Saturday 18 November, 6pm. Arts Centre Dance on Camera Filmmaking, dance and choreography combine to provide an intoxicating fusion of movement. Peter Anderson of Swindon Dance presents a programme of local and international dance films. £4 Saturday 18 November, 8.30pm. Arts Centre 13 Tzameti (15) Explosive and brutally tense thriller about a high-stakes underground game of Russian Roulette. Featuring an introductory physical performance by Matt Bailey and Joey Dart, investigating ideas inspired by the film. £4 Sunday 19 November, 12noon. Arts Centre The Jungle Book (U) "I wanna be like you-oo-oo..." Sing along with Mowgli, Baloo, Bagheera and King Louis on their musical journey through jungle in Disney's classic animation. £2 the Sunday 19 November, 2.30pm. Arts Centre Raising Arizona (Coen Brothers Double Bill) Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter star in the first of our two Coen gems. When Ed and Hi decide that there is too much love and beauty for just the two of them, they figure the next logical step is to find them a critter. £4, two films for the price of one Sunday 19 November, 4.30pm. Arts Centre Miller's Crossing (Coen Brothers Double Bill) Once you have dried your eyes from the hilarity that is Raising Arizona, settle down to one of the best gangster films of all time and, some say. the quintessential Coen. This movie is flawless. £4, two films for the price of one Sunday 19 November, 7.45pm. Arts Centre The Bad Film Club - Nicko & Joe versus Jaws 4. Throw off the shackles of conventional cinema going. shout. heckle or jeer at one of the badest movies made. Nicko and Joe will guide you through a minefield of wooden acting, ropy special effects and dodgy plot lines. Witness some of the best in live comedy going head to head with the worst of Hollywood. £5

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Business as usual There's more to Old Town than Wood Street which has been getting all the attention recently. for all the wrong reasons. Disruption from months of sewer ti on of shoes for adults and chilreplacement work has caused dren. with the help of experienced problems for traders because con- and knowledgeable staff. Godwin Court. where there is sumers think the place has shut plenty of car parking. is home to down. This is not so. It s business as usual in Wood two excellent shops, full of gifts. Street itself. Deacons, one of the and arts and crafts supplies. A visit town's oldest businesses, is the to Candles & Crystals owned by best for high quality jewellery. Yvonne Arnett from Grange Park watches, china and gift ware. If and Made by You, run by Pat you're looking for something spe- Twidell from Abbey Meads, offer a vast range of items, from candles, cial. it's the place to go. Old Town Hardware across the jewellery and gemstones. artists road offers just about everything supplies and things to keep scrapfor the household, whilst a few bookers happy. They also run art courses where doors along Total Flooring has carpets, wood. laminate and vinyl at you will learn techniques. get encouragementand build confidence. best prices without gimmicks. A date for your diary is the big Another well established business is Blaylocks on Bath Road. li ghts switch on in Old Town which They offer an outstanding selec- takes place on 30 November.

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Gifts to feel good about The big retailers look forward to Christmas as eagerly as children writing their letters to Santa. However, The Link has come up with some suggestions to let a good cause profit from your goodwill. If you're planning to buy gifts from well known retailers you could raise funds for Koalas special needs toddler group. based in West Swindon. with no more than a couple of clicks of your mouse. Big names like Early Learning, M&S. Littlewoods. Amazon and CDWow will make a donation of up to 10 per cent of your order, with no extra cost to you. Just visit www.buy.at/koalas Asthma Relief, a Swindon charity providing nebulisers, could take away the headache of organising Christmas cards. They produce bespoke, hand made cards and organise mailing, with all profits going to the charity. Call Sue People on 611211 or mail: susan@people.uklinux.net Tea Bag Crafts have featured in The Link many times and there is a range of attractive gifts including tea trays, coasters, tea light holders and cards made in South Africa. decorated with tea bags. Contact Bob and Lyn Newman on 872389 or mail: bobandlyn25@aol.com Gift tokens are available from Swindon projects Link to allow donations in Nicaraguua Nicaragua (see bottom of page). The tokens can be for any value, but for example. £50 enables a child to attend school. www.swindonocotal-link.org

and you could be saving for Christmas We may be able to fi nd you a lower interest rate. You may have to pay an early repayment charge to your existing lender if you remortgage. Whether you're planning to move to a new house or to remortgage your proper ty , with over 17 years experience providing mortgages in Swindon, Mansfield Begbie Associates aim to provide an excellent and personal service. There may be a fee payable at completion for placing your mortgage. The precise amount will depend on your circumstances but we estimate it will be £300. However, no completion no fee. Mansfield Begbie Associates arranges mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK For a free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

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Swindon Ocotal Link

To light a family home in Kenya with a solar powered system costs £65. By becoming a Friend of Lights for Learning, based at Wootton Bassett. and donating £5 a month, you will light up a life for a whole year. www.lightsforlearning.org Many of the major national charities allow you to choose how your donation will be spent and will provide a card and certificate to give to friends and relatives. Here are some ideas. £12 donated to the NSPCC buys a one-to-one therapy session for an abused child. You'll also find a range of cards and presents at www.nspccshop.co.uk/home Get a really useful Christmas hamper from Save the Children. www.savethechildrenshop.co.uk £10 will pay for a basket of food to feed a family for a month. Someone on your list is bound to appreciate the gift of an Oxfam toilet at £30 or a goat costing £24. That's a year's income for a pastoralist in a sub-Saharan country. Oxfam will send you a fridge magnet as a reminder of the gift. www.oxfamunwrapped.com For even more goodies which will help somebody worse off than you. check out www.charitygifts.com SOL fundraising - where does it go? £6,000 raised by Swindon Ocotal Link in the last year was transferred to the li nk committee in Nicaragua in October. Here is how the money will be spent: general project fund £2,200; administration £700; old people's home £1,000: health care support £980: education help (school uniforms) £900; Comedor Princesa Diana (nursery) £150: women's groups £70

Make use of the digital Link Click on the addresses above at our virtual edition @ www.swindonlink.com

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Swir kr Wide Guitarists across the generations When Maurice Goodearl read a Link article about young guitarist Kit Hawes, it struck a chord. Having played with the big names in the 1 930s and 40s. Maurice wanted to share his memories and gave Kit a call.

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It turned out that the two guitarists had a shared love of Django Reinhardt, the famous 1930sgypsy guitarist. "I thought it would be good to speak to a fellow guitar player," said Maurice. 'I've got a lot of music I've written. I'm 90 now and shan't live many more years. I think my children will throw it all away which would be a pity. I'd rather give it to someone who's interested and can use it." Maurice was self-taught and played with dance bands in the High Wycombe area in the 1930s and 1940s. He still has a collection of certificates recording various successes in dance band competitions. Playing with Eric Wakefield and his Blue Rhythm Band, he would regularly pickup best guitarist prizes. On one memorable occasion, he played with virtuoso jazz violinist, Stephane Grapelli. After leaving technical school aged 13, Maurice worked in a factory making aircraft instruments. He went on to set up his own highly successful instrument testing business.

La"ti Passing on the experience. Maurice and Kit By the 1950s. he was a caravan enthusiast and, whilst taking part in a rally in Swindon, decided to buy Blunsdon Abbey caravan park, where he still lives today. Kit has been fascinated to hear about Maurice's musical history. His interest in the music of the 30s stemmed from hearing about his grandfather who played in a band at the time. He has noticed that it is becoming more popular. "A lot of people are getting into swing music now. It's lively, it's fun to play and it's great to jam to as well."

K. & E. J. CRUMP & SON

FAMILY BUTCHERS 120 HIGH ST., WOOTTON BASSETT. Tel: 853284

CHRISTMAS ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN Farm Fresh Turkeys Cockerels, Chickens, Boneless Turkey Breast, Duck, Pheasant, Venison, High Class Scotch & English Beef, Premium Lamb, Pork, large selection of Speciality Pies Our own cooked ham (including honey roast, apple roast, mustard, smoked and traditional) and roast pork. Over 20 varieties of fresh sausages and sausage heat irtctilding: The Fatnois Bassett Banger'

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Grange Drive, Stratton St Margaret • Tel: 825525 Saturday 25th November - JUBILEE Playing 60's & Ballroom. Tickets £7 members / £8 non-members Doors open 7pm for approx 8.15pm start

Saturday 16th December - SMILEY MAC DANCE BAND featuring on vocal Amy Cullen, a voice not to be missed Tickets £7 members / £8 non-members Doors open 7pm for approx 8.15pm start

CHRISTMAS OFFICE PARTY NIGHTS Start your Christmas celebrations at one of our Party Nights Enjoy a three course meal including coffee & mince pies.. then dance the night away with Manhattan Disco.

Saturday 9th, Thursday 14th, Friday 15th December All for £23 per head members. £24 per head non-members

CHRISTMAS EVE & NEW YEARS EVE PARTIES with disco and children's entertainer Call the centre for details and ticket prices

Saturday 27th January - Abba 2 featuring classics like Dancing Queen'. Waterloo', ' Winner takes it All.' Call for details.

Celebrate Burns Night in style at the De Vere Shaw Ridge Swindon with the traditional piping in of the haggis followed by a fabulous 3 course Scottish themed dinner and then an evenings entertainment with a live band and dancing. Friday 26th January 2007 In the Wilton Suite £23.00 per person For further information & to book please call Claire MacKenzie on

01793 889364 -Tickets must be pre-booked & pre-paid and are non transferable and non refundable. No further discount appicable. 'The management reserve the right to after or cancel the event without prior notice, 'Dresscode - formal, kilts optional

THE NINE ELMS PUB Old Shaw Lane, Nine Elms, West Swindon. 01793 770442 CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU Prawn & Avocado Cocktail • Leek & Potato Broth • Winter Pate Traditional Roast Turkey Crown • Traditional Roast Beef Brie and Cranberry Wellington Brandy Soaked Christmas Pudding • Homr Chocolate Tart • Cheese Selection Lunch Menu £12.95p/p • Evening Menu Subject to terms & conditions www.thenineelms.com

Wrag Barn Golf Club, Shrivenharn Road Highworth, Swindon SN6 7QQ Tel: 01 793 86132 7 Fax: 01793 86132 5

Email: info@wragbarn.com www.wragbarn.com -

Wrag Barn are pleased to announce that we now have the licence to perform Civil Weddings, Naming Ceremonies, Renewal of Marriage Vows and Commitment Ceremonies

Log on and register to our new interactive trebsite View the latest Hens and receive updates on all future events Stuck for a Christmas present? Ifyouurpartner has ana interest in golf, then why not surprise them with a book of golfing vouchers. Prices available on request

Celebrate New Years Eve at Wrag Barn Tickets at £49.95 per head to include Bucks Fizz on arrival

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Groundwell Farm in North Swindon will have a new lease of life when it opens as a dental practice in December. Dentist Patrick Holmes bought Saxon times," he said. "It's been a Residents concerned with the derelict Grade II listed building farm, a parsonage and an arts and farm redevelopment in 2002. Now that restoration work drama centre. I am sure there are People living close to the farm are is complete. he would like to root a lot of people who have lived, concerned that the Groundwell out people's memories of the build- worked, played or been entertained project is not conforming to planing. He wants to display the infor- here over the last hundred years ning requirements. mation at the new practice which and have some interesting or Permission to demolish the origiwill be called Seven Fields Centre maybe even spooky stories to tell." nal coach house on site was given Therapies at the new centre will on condition that new residential for Dentistry & Well-being. Patrick hopes that people who include Shiatsu, Reiki, physi- accommodation is constructed of have lived in the area, or may even otherapy. Indian head massage. salvaged materials. have worked on the farm. will come podiatry, cosmetic dentistry such However a Swindon Council forward with their recollections. as teeth whitening and implants. planner said permission has been Contact Patrick with memories given to use substitute stone and "Groundwell Farm is absolutely steeped in history, going back to of the building at: an enforcement officer had visited www.sevenfields.co.uk the site to ensure compliance.

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Day for Local Democracy at Lydiard Take Part. Take Power, was the theme of a local democracy day exercise held in the new BMW sponsored education centre at Lydiard House on 10 October. the first time the converted stable had been used.

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Sixty pupils from four secondary schools considered the nature of local government and the importance of recognising their rights in a democracy. Through workshops and discussions, they explored the strategies and tactics individuals can use to effect change. They looked at how the £5 million scheme to restore the historic landscape and upgrade visitor facilities at Lydiard Park Project was brought together. Councillor Nick Martin (Shaw/ Nine Elms). who is chair of the Lydiard Park Management Board. with councillors Steve Wakefield (Toothill & Westlea) and Bob Wright (Central) discussed the political

processes involved and talked about the ways young people can get involved to empower themselves.

Play area opens - at last Lydiard Park's new play area was available in time for half term. Packed with 20 pieces of new equipment. designed for different age groups. the attraction is sure to bring excitement to any child's day. The Link has featured delays to the completion of the project in the last two editions. Now the fences are down and the children are invited to enjoy.

Swindon Film

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Wednesday 1st, 7.45pm

Wednesday 8th to Saturday 11th, 7.30pm Lady Windermere's Fan: performed by the Western Players. A classic play with Oscar Wilde in sparkling form. Intrigue, deception and misunderstanding: all because of a fan. £6. Arts Centre Friday 10th & Saturday 11th, 7pm Black History Group drama set in the Caribbean around WW2. £6. child £3.50. tickets from Swindon Information Centre. New College Bombon El Perro (15) A hulking Theatre hound of noble breeding transforms Wednesday 15th to Saturday 18th, the life of an out-of-work mechanic in 7.30pm this gentle comedy about friendship, middle-age and machismo. SFS Arts When We Are Married performed by Ridgeway Theatre Co. Written in Centre 1938 by JB Priestley, the play about Wednesday 15th, 7.45pm three couples celebrating their Tickets (15) A triology of intertwining combined 25th wedding annivertales takes place aboard a train going saries is set in 1908 Northern to Rome, from three of the world's England. Proceeds to The Filling leading directors: Kiarostami, Olmi Station, which provides hot, food for and Loach. SFS Arts Centre the homeless and needy in Swindon. Tuesday 24th, 7.45pm £6. tickets from 740926. Holy Cross Pierrepoint (15) Starring Timothy Church. Ch/se/don Spall and Juliet Stevenson, the Thursday 16th to Sat 18th, 7.30pm curious and fascinating story of the Let It Be Me performed by the life of Albert Pierrepoint, Britain's Clarendon Players. Amy is caring for most prolific 20th century hangman. her aunt when a chance meeting SFS St Michaels Ha// Highworth leads to romance and she finds love Wednesday 29th, 7.45pm pulling her in different directions. £5. Paradise Now (15) This tense, Tickets from Wootton Bassett Post thoughtful drama boldly ventures into Office from 3 November. Wootton high-risk territory: the minds and Bassett Memorial Ha// motives of two childhood friends who Friday 17th, 7.30pm are recruited as suicide bombers in Persuasion. The Dorset Corset Tel Aviv. SFS. Arts Centre Theatre Company, left, bring Swindon Film Society (SFS) films theatrical spice to Jane Austen's are formembers only. /tisPossib/e to classic novel. Actor-musicians give join on any film evening. this period drama a modern twist. £10. Arts Centre Tea Dance Thursday 30th, 8pm Thursdays 9th & 23rd Oedipus. David Stuttard's version of 2pm to 4.30pm Sophocles' masterpiece. A head-ofMemorial Hall. Wootton Bassett. state so certain of himself that he All styles and rhythms: sequence, sees any criticism as a threat. But modern ballroom, old-tyme, line what if he is himself the problem? dance. All welcome. £10. Arts Centre

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Venues Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway Kemble Drive. Tel: 466655 Swindon & Cricklade Railway Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Swindon Dance Regent Circus Tel: 601700 Swindon Information Centre Regent Street. Tel: 466454 Swindon Museum & Art Gallery Bath Road. Tel: 466556 University of Bath in Swindon Oakfield Campus, Marlow Avenue. Tel: 328800 Wyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 Confirm date. time and price with the venue

Now that her classmates are all turning 40, Sally Seward is arranging a reunion for Headlands' Class of 1983 on 11 November. They last got together 10 years ago, so there's going to be a lot to catch up on. Tickets for the event at the Moonrakers Pub cost £10 to include a buffet. Any profit will go to the Prospect Hospice. Call Sally on 823698 or mail: sallyseward@btinternet.com

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Friday 17th, 7.45pm Union Dance. Breathtaking movement and stunning visual effects in a double bill that explores dance, music, light, projection and acoustic space. £8.50. Swindon Dance

Saturday 4th, 8pm

Talks Thursday 2nd, 7.30pm Readers

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doing it together, in association with Artsworlds and the Swindon Festival of Literature. If you like reading. having a chat about what you have read. discovering new books and meeting other readers, then this is the evening for you. Guest speaker is editor and publisher.Guy Pringle. £250. Arts Centre Tuesday 14th. 8pm Matt Shaw, runner up of Stars in Their Eyes 2000. "I can only describe Matt's performances as seriously red hot! So hot he could melt a cheese sandwich from across the room!

lestyn Edwards:double bill In Anything for a Tenor, lestyn sings the songs of Cole Porter and Frank Schubert and goes off at tangents. In Ballet Star Ga/actica. ballerina Madame Galina is forced to take advantage of Lotto funding by doing outreach work in a remote village. £10. Arts Centre

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Benedict Allen: Into The Abyss. The explorer shares his scariest experiences - whether being shot at by drug barons, initiated as a 'crocodile man' in a secret ceremony. fleeing from Amazon gold miners, or being abandoned by guides. £8. Arts Centre Tuesday 21st, 12.15pm A Sense of Place: Perceptions of Landscape. Barbara Dixon. curator of the Swindon Art Collection explores the much loved subject of landscape. She will use examples from the Swindon Collection of Modern Art. £5 Inc/udes sandwich lunch. Booking essential University ofBath /n Swindon. Oakfie/d Campus Tuesday 28th, 7.30pm Rodney Bewes: Diary of a Nobody.The much loved comic novel adapted into a one-man show. Mr Footer is a lovable, absurd everyman. whose rose tinted vision of his lot is exposed to hilarious effect at every turn. £10. Arts Centre

Message in a Bottle. Production for children aged 5-9. Lizzie lives with her father, uncle and grandpa in a li ghthouse on Merrow Point. When she finds a bottle washed up on the beach, she takes it home as a present for grandpa's birthday. Little does she know it contains the heart of the Demon of Merrow Deep and he wants it back! £7 family £1 8. Phoenix Theatre, New College Tuesday 21st to Friday 24th, 7.30pm; Saturday 25th, 10.30am, 2pm & 7pm Cinderella. Stage Struck is back at the Arts Centre with their all new pantomime. Expect the usual chaotic comedy. songs and lots of fun with a truly traditional family pantomime. £8. Tickets 50/77840757 Arts Centre Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th, 11am to 4pm Santa Specials. Swindon & Cricklade Railway. Call 771615 for details

Cr in November Music

Exhibitions

Friday 3rd, 8pm

To 30th, 1 pm to 2pm weekdays, 11 am to 3pm weekends Rolling Exhibition. A showcase of photos and artwork of Brunel 200 events in Swindon. Free. Community

Crossroads

Antonio Forcione & Adriano Adewale Duo. An acclaimed guitarist from Italy and a Brazilian master percussionist.

£15 Arts Centre Tuesday 7th, 7.30pm

To Saturday 25th Picasso: Histoire Naturelle. 31 prints of animals, birds. insects considered by many to be one of Picasso's most important graphic productions. Free. Arts Centre Monday 28th to 22 December Affordable Art. Original artworks including prints, paintings, drawings and photos. Free. Arts Centre To March 2007 A Sense of Place. Exploring landscapes over the past 100 years, featuring works from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art. Free. Swindon Museum 8 Art Gallery

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Go West. The band whose hits include We Close Our Eyes. Cal/Me and The King of Wishful Thinking perform all the favourites and plenty of new material. £20. Oasis. ca//

Wyvern Theatre for tickets Monday 13th, 7.30pm That'll Be the Day. Back by overwhelming public demand. Loads of laughs and over 2 hours of 1 950s, 60s and 70s classic gold hits. £1 7 50.

Oasis. call Wyvern Theatre fortickets Thursday 16th, 8pm Cara Dillon's exquisitely pure voals have won her much critical acclaim, including wins at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. £15 Arts Centre 18th, 7.30pm Thamesdown Ladies Choir celebrate the 50th annniversary of the church. Queen : Drive Methodist

Church. Tickets on the door Sunday 26th, 7.30pm Swindon Recital Series: Panoply. Formed of multiple prize-winners and graduates of the Royal Colleges. The programme takes listeners through a musical journey of Tangos. Chinese and Latin sounds. £10.

GCSE and A level students £2. Accompanied under 14s free. Tickets only from 612775 Arts Centre

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A Night At The Opera Saturday 4 November Black tie dinner and cabaret at the Marriott Hotel in Swindon in aid of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance Appeal Highly acclaimed professional London based company Hatstand Opera will perform excerpts from popular opera between courses Tickets at £38 from Tracey Edwards on 01380 739453 or John Craig on 01380 726343

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Irish Dance Saturday 11 November, 8pm

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Xmas Fayre Friday 1 December, 5.30 - 7.30pm Brook Field School Santa's Grotto and stalls

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Visitor centre remains open People looking for a home in Priory Vale will continue to find all the information they need in one place for another seven weeks. The Priory Vale Visitor Centre, off Thamesdown Drive, which was due to close in mid-October, will remain open until 22 December, Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm. The centre has been the first point of call for home purchasers since 2002, but landowners Persimmon now need the site back. Christmas un 437940 or mail: The North Swindon Develop- mikechristmasntrenchfarrow.co.uk ment Company is looking for a Free maps on offer buyer of the spacious timberframed structure created by award- Visitor centre advisor Jeanette winning NC Architects. The build- Egglestone is available to assist ing was designed with de-con- with all enquiries about Priory Vale struction and reassembly in mind. and has free maps of the area The successful bidder will be re- produced by TheLinkto give away. Information is also available at sponsible for removal. To make an offer, call Mike www.prioryvale.com

Confusion over use of Oakhurst school site

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Just as Haydon Wick Parish Council prepared to consult Oakhurst residents about possible uses for a no longer needed school site Swindon Council Children's Services declared an interest. The site off Pioneer Road, re- has rejected this idea, declaring ferred toon plans as PS7, was origi- that Children's Services and Edunallysetasideforaprimaryschool cation are considering building until the council decided in 2003 some sort unspecified provision. Coon Gary Perkins, Children's that Red Oaks and Orchid Vale Services lead member, said that were adequate provision. The parish council was keen on whilst a school would not be built, it becoming public open space to Children's Services retains rights block future housing development on the land for 10 years. "There are and was planning a public consul- no definite proposals yet, but there tationthroughOakhurstResidents are lots of possibilities such as a providing a children's home, resAssociation, However a letter from Swin- pite care or perhaps other extended don's Development Impact Group services."

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Rob and Sharon Morris made a spur of the moment decision to take over the salon when they saw it was for sale. The salon's been there as long I can remember." said Rob. "It's a local concern, and I know lots of people that use it. thought why not try and keep it open. "It's popular because it saves the hassle of going into town and we have free parking. Forthe older community around the area, having to find somewhere else would be an aggravation." 'The object is to make sure the whole experience is enjoyable, comfortable and relaxed. No matter what someone comes in for. they'll be offered refreshments: tea. coffee, even a glass of wine or beer if they like." Before having herfamily. Sharon worked in PR and marketing. She

A Cut Above team in the comp/etely refurbished sa/on on Moredon Road plans to use her experience to gather customer feedback and make sure her salon is offering what they want. Plans for the future include Indian head massage and a nail bar. Link readers are offered a 10% discount and there are also incentives for recommending friends. Call 480448 for appointments.

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Dawn Morse from Priory Vale is starting Pilates and yoga classes for adults at Isambard School and Bendy Banana Yoga 4 Children at Orchid Vale Primary School in Haydon End. Details of Dawn's The adults yoga for beclasses in West and ginners class takes place North Swindon and on Wednesday 6.30pm Cricklade can be found ' followed by Pilates at

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The eyes are in fashion Long and lovely lashes, as fluttered by JLo and Paris Hilton, are the latest beauty trend. Their secret is Lavish Lashes; eyelash extensions which are now available for the first time in West Swindon at Caroline Collis Hairdressing & Beauty in Peatmoor. The extensions look, feel and the thickness and length." A clever arrangement of the exwear like natural lashes. Between 50 to 100 lashes are fixed to the tensions can give the illusion of base of the real lash and can last up changing the eye shape. Longer to 8 weeks depending on the life lashes in the middle, tapering to U c cle of your own lashes. The first shorter ones at the corners will maketheeyelookmoreoval.There i pplication takes up to two hours. i o maintain the look, a top up are also tricks to make the eyes application every two weeks will look wider apart. Caroline says hair extensions take approximately 10 minutes. "There's no need to wear mas- have come and gone, they're not cara or use eyelash curlers and you as popular as they were. "Even can swim, shower and go to the Posh Spice has taken hers out. Now u vm," said Caroline. "They come everybody wants to have luscious in different colours and lengths so lashes." Call 887800 for details or visit you can enhance your eye colour or have a natural look or double www.carolinecollis.com

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 37

Ryan takes on the world Seven year kick boxer, Ryan Embling, is heading for the World Kickboxing Championships in November now that his family has managed to raise £1,500 to send him to Malta. Ryan asked to go no-one in his group. to kickboxing when "His greatest asset he was four years is his flexibility; he's old because his sisvery springy and ter went to dancing gets his kicks up classes and he high," said dad, wanted his own Jason. hobby. So far this year he Mum, Sandra, has had five wins, said, "he's getting including the Eurovery excited now pean Championthat he's started ships, and numertraining for Malta. ous second place He's going to fight awards. He trains in four competitions t wice a week at so if he comes back with one win Cirencester and in between sesthat would be fantastic. I used to sions, Jason helps him practice at be really scared when I saw him home. fight. But he's never been hurt and To cover the travel and entry now I know he can hold his own." costs, Sandra contacted local firms Ryan fights in the under 125cm and has been overwhelmed b y the category but often has to compete reaction and would like to thank in the under 135cm bouts if there is all who have assisted.

Skaters do it in figures Local skaters returned great performances, with three winners and six other podium places at the Swindon Ice Figure Club annual open figure skating competition at Link Centre in mid-October. One hundred and twenty competitors from all parts of the country took part but there were gloomy predictions for the Swindon skaters. Events coordinator Bev Leahy said, "given that the rink has been closed for much of the summer and the skaters have had to travel to Bracknell, Bristol and Oxford to maintain their form, their achievements are nothing short of miraculous. We're all so pleased for our members who did so well." The club is entirely run by volunteers to encourage skaters of all abilities. The 65 members have exclusive use of the Link rink on Fridays from 6.45pm to 8.15pm for coaching and practice. Bev said, "there's a lovely atmosphere with lots of encouragement for younger, newer skaters and they get inspiration from the more experienced, preparing for competition. The sport is a great way to achieve fitness, and also self-discipline and self-esteem." The club is affiliated to the National Ice Skating Organisation (NISA) and was recently awarded their Skate Mark for Excellence. Membership is open to anyone that has passed their Level 7 Skate UK badge, taken after Link Centre run group skating lessons, usually on a Saturday morning. For details of joining mail Bev: garybev@leahyb.fsnet.co.uk or call 07884 313451. Good pei formnnees from, back, Gemma Lorraines, Daisy Leahy, Jordan Bonello, front, Carmen Lee, Isabella Larkin, Morgan Danials, Hannah Frame,

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C91QOLI9\[ COLLIS Hairdressing & Beauty Caroline Collis Hairdressing & Beauty is delighted to welcome Kiri to the team. Kiri, who has many years experience as a Senior Stylist, looks forward to welcoming all clients. Lavish Lashes NOW IN SWINDON Throw away your mascara, get rid of your eyelash curlers. ° Eyelash extensions are now in __ New, at Caroline Collis Hairdressing & Beauty, Visit Jess the Beauty Manager or call us ge£ r

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Figures presented at a showcase event for Active Swindon in September showed that 73 per cent of adults in the town fail to do enough exercise to have any health benefits. For adults, 30 minutes of exer- needed if targets aretobeachieved. For details of how to get fit in cise, five times a week are recom- Because of the way the project is Swindon see: www.swindon mended. Active Swindon is aim- funded, much of its work is .gov.uk/active swindon ing for a 1 per cent increase per focussed on renewal areas. Basketball Abbey Meads yearinthenumberofpeoplebeing However, Gladys pointed out physically active to the recom- that there are many options avail- With support from Active Swindon. mended level over the next3 years. able right across the town."People Jump Swindon runs free basketSpokesman, Martin Dunscombe, don't have to go and join a gym or ball coaching for young people said, "Active Swindon has only a sports club to be fit. There are lots aged 10 to 18 years on the outdoor been established since December of opportunities in Swindon to be court at Abbey Meads Primary 2005 so the initial figures are really active. If you want to make a dif- School every Saturday from 1 Oam a snapshot of the population at the ference to your lifestyle, there are to 12pm. Turn up and take part of people who can help. If anyone call coach Kris Talikowski on start of our work." Project Manager Gladys Barr wants some advice they can con- 700356. www.jumpswindon.co.uk said that novel approaches are tact me."

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Extra netball offer Due to the popularity of the Abbey Meads Thursday morning netball group, community worker Roxy Cox is launching a Monday lunch time session at Abbey Meads Primary School on 6 November. They will take place between 12 noon and 1.30pm and a creche will be available. The netball ladies are friendly and welcome all new players, even if you haven't played since you were at school. . Call Roxy on 07966 023636 to book a creche place

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AFC Lydiard is looking for under 13s to strengthen its squad playing in the North Wilts Youth and Minor League, Second Division. They train on the Greendown astro turf on Tuesdays from 6.30pm and at Lydiard Park in the summer months. If you are in school Year 8 and want to arrange a trial, contact Giles Weir on 723075.

Good cause helped at half marathon A charity which grants wishes for seriously and terminally ill children benefited from the efforts of Michelle Wilkinson in the Swindon Half Marathon on 15 October. When Michelle, right, decided to enter the run to raise mone y for Starlight Children's Foundation, husband Adrian suggested that his ' `^ P A,1 la>>nrhnrl h icinACC ('annnn

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 39

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Delta staff hear of hard hitting plans The limited performance over many years by British tennis players at the very highest level is being tackled by the sports governing body through a long term review of what is taking place at the grassroots. Following a visit from Roger Delta Tennis Centre in Draper, the new and charismatic Westlea have taken heart chief executive of the Lawn Tennis that their efforts to enAssociation in September, staff at courage youngsters to take up the gamewill bear fruit. Mr Draper talked to centre staff and parents of young hopefuls about V V the LTA proposals. He promised more funds for Approved Dri ving Instructor developing young talent as a result of thinning out `PAN° —PLUf" REGISTERED JI the LTA management Roger Draper of the LTA with Delta manager Gail Light, right, structure. with Julie Jones, tennis manager of the Wiltshire LTA and Delta conch Neil Watts * Theory Test Tuition Gail Light Delta man* Training Pack Available ager, said, "Roger had us all inThe Delta Centre receives a grant • Recently refurbished courts at St spired. His plans are going to of £10,000 to support talented Mark's recreation ground in * Block Booking Discounts change the face of tennis in this youngsters, who each need 8 hours Ferndale mean more opportunicountry. I asked him about small coaching a week. Gail was de- ties for youngsters to try the game. * Refresher Courses indoor tennis initiatives like Delta lighted that more money would be The ten outdoor courts have multiCall Liz on 01793 486112 and as a result, LTA's consultant available to help cover these costs. coloured surfaces which are apPhil Sandilands is coming to visit Drop in sessions run at Delta on pealing to children and help them Ask crboia free lessons Saturday and Sunday, 1.30pm to remember the rules. us." Coaching for youngsters takes 2.30pm for 5 to 7 years and 2.30pm to 3.30pm for over 7s. The cost is place on Saturday from 1.30pm. £2. For details call Gail on 445566. To book at other times call 445566.

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Big A backs big lads Rugby is making inroads at the traditional football playing Greendown Community School, with help from sponsorship by the Big Adventure After School Club.

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The Year 9/10 team has only lost two games in two years, both to Wootton Bassett. Coach Alex Buchalik said the game is coming on at the school. "An increasing number of boys are taking to the game. Some lads are going up for county trials and we're entering the Wilts County Cup which will bring us up against the traditional rugby schools."

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 41

Daughters follow dad into the minefield of work When the Johns family of Toothill talk about work, the conversation is likely to be explosive, with three of them working in the field of weapons and bomb disposal.

Bv Sue â€˘ Discount prices for all the family â€˘ 25% discount for Seniors Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322 ALSO HOME VISITS AVAILABLE

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Nowadays it's rare for all of them to be in the same place because both Angie Johns' daughters - Sam and Kirsty - have followed their father into the armed forces. Husband Andy, joined the RAF aged 17, and became hooked on the thrill of bomb disposal, but Angie has barely got used to the idea. "It's nerve racking a lot of the time, but I've lived with it for 28 years," she said. After the first Iraq War in the early 1990s, Andy cleared mines in Kuwait and the family went with him. "The girls grew up with bombs and mines. The idea of their dad working with them has never bothered them," said Angie. On leaving the RAF, Andy found civilian life too boring and quickly joined Minetech, a company specialising in mine search and disposal. Currently he is involved in hand searching old World War 11 minefields in the Libyan desert, clearing areas before oil exploration can take place. Both Sam and Kirstv attended

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Fireworks. It's the same message. Be careful, stay safe Firefighter Greg Izon provides an update on activity over the last few months at Westlea Fire Station which covers West and North Swindon

As some of you might have noticed, Westlea police station opposite the fire station has been demolished to make way for a housing development. This has 01793 702098 not affected us and our operaMob: 07904 734 758 tions have carried on as normal. www.carolespetsitting.co.uk In the past couple of months we Taking the worry out of leaving have attended a variety of inciyour pets dents, including several Road Trafwhilst you're away fic Collisions (RTCs). These seem to be on the increase Westlea POticr Sta ti on ott the way datan, and, sadly, often have tragic con11 years after it was pitt uy at a cost of £3.5 rniltion sequences. This is partly due to drink driving, which is unaccept- It's the bonfire and firework • Keep pets indoors; • When using sparklers, always able and it really is dangerous. So, season again. Please: take care and dispose of them in please, if you have had a drink • Keep fireworks in a closed box a bucket of water. and take them out one at a time; don't drive. Worried who will look If you need more information We have also had an increase in • Always read the instructions and after your pet whilst on the above or any home fire safety use accordingly; fires in the home. A lot of these you're on holiday? matter, click on community safety have been caused by people leav- • Light the firework at at: www.wiltsfire.gov.uk arm's length; ing cooking unattended. Please, Pets At Home Free smoke detector still on offer could be your answer never do this. Not only will your • Move to a safe distance Wiltshire Fire Brigade fit smoke after lighting; food be burnt but you may also Pets At Home is a service • Never, ever return to a fire work detectors free of charge. Take adhave to call us out. which cares for all your pets vantage of this by calling 0800 389 once lit; We have been taking part in a (except dogs) in their • Keep a bucket of water handy; 7849. project called BUSK. This involves own home anywhere in educating Year 11 pupils from the West Swindon area only Hreod Parkway on the dangers of First steps into youth work Telephone Sheila Mitchell distracting bus drivers and also for further details on the dangers and consequences of Two courses are on offer in November for people working with young 01793 873062 or 07710 543197 irresponsible behaviour whilst people or thinking of doing so - and they're free to participants. email: sm4hannahlightfoot@talktalk.net, travelling on a bus. The training is run by Swindon child protection." 10-18 Project, avoluntary organiFor more in depth work, the sation which specialises in work- Level 3 course covers all areas of ing with vulnerable young people. youth work. It takes 30 weeks and The project hopes to attract any- is for people already working with one involved in youth work, in- young people. Pet sitting & dog walking Call Julie Collar on 614487 for eluding foster carers and volunmore details and to register. teers. Leading to a Level 2 qualificaGoing away & need someone special to care for your pets? Make a difference to a tion, an introductory course will Looking for an alternative to the kennels and cattery? young person cover issues such as child protecDog walking - am/pm, lunchtimes tion, social and emotional devel- The Swindon Independent Visitors opment, mental health and drug Scheme is looking for more adult Home visits for feeding, cleaning & cuddles and alcohol awareness. It takes volunteers to befriend a child or Overnight stays for scaredy cats! approximately three months, with young person (aged 8 to 18) who is s All animals cared for - large and small . looked after by the local authority. one session a week. Insured, police-checked, references available A training course to join the Administrator, Amy Law, said ` Member of Petsitters International ,^^ "the course provides a basis of scheme starts in November. For knowledge so you can give advice details call Beverley Johnston on c u 3 ^^ I t^ 'Call 01793 770759 or email infoCdlpaw-pals.co.uk to youngsters. It's good for people 615049 or by mail: spurgeons Paw Pals Visit www.pow-pals.co.uk Pet ,Ir,gLd og walki ng getting up to date with things like @swindoniv .fsnet.co.uk SERVICE 14 Waterdown Close Taw Hill, Swindon

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The virtual Link Magazine n ow o nline @ www.swindonlink.com 43

Keeping up traditions Year 3 pupils in Dave Barnett's class at Bridlewood Primary School in Ash Brake took advantage of the mature horse chestnut trees in the grounds to hold a conker competition before half term. No fussing about health and safety for them. The youngsters quickly got the hang of how to play and enjoyed knocking each other's conkers out until the winner was found. "We all loved playing; it was a lot of fun," said Harrison Wallage, below left, who beat Matthew Huggins in a tense final.

Harvest collection of pants and knickers Youngsters at Red Oaks Primary School in Priory Vale had a good look through their drawers in the week before half term for underwear that could be donated to children without any. Headteacher Terri Menham jet- "Mrs M asked us in assembly what cold it is in winter; it sunk in that ted off to South Africa with hun- weall weareverydayand only one they don't have anything." dreds of pants and knickers from person said underwear. When she Jacoub Bonner said, "normally the children, and several thousand asked us to bring in pants and you're asked for tinned foods for more donatedbychurchesinSwin- knickers, everybody screamed Harvest Festival, but this was difdon and Bristol, to be distributed with laughter. ferent. It broke down the barriers to an orphanage in the town of "It was a bit embarrassing at between us and we've had a laugh Clarens and to children over the first but she explained about the in class showing off our underborder in Lesotho. children in the orphanage and how wear." Red Oaks Ms Menham said Red Oaks n 1dren „ c would be setting up an education were taken partnership with the Mujulefa farm d A „ aback by the school in Clarens, to build on work 9' unusual realready done with Dihlabeng questin midSchool through Peatmoor Primary. j October. Year 6 pupil Josh GriggsBurton said, RJJAI INC SA LJh P Red Oaks Year 6 showing off some of the underwear collected

Pedal pushing to help Rachel develop power Tony Howell from Shaw set out charity Brainsvave in Somerset, To help Tony give Rachel a beton a bike in early October hoping will help her gain some control ter future, call 656340 or to raise enough money to send over her limbs. "They work on the tonyhowell.uk@btinternet.com www.brainwave.org.uk his daughter for specialist principle of neuro plasticity," he therapy, but his fundraising was explained. "They've found thatreso successful that he has man- petitive exercise can help rewire — aged to pay for another two chit- the brain to control parts of the dren to benefit. body." Experienced cyclist Tony has undertaken several sponsored cycle challenges for charity. This year he decided to tackle a 140 mile route through the Lake District to raise money so that his daughter Rachel could receive specialist therapy. The two year old has cerebral palsy, affecting all four limbs and also has brittle bone disease. She is unable to sit unaided and her speech is delayed. Tony hopes that a regime of therap y taught by the

Dogged by problems? Don't be. A team from Drove Veternary Hospital will be outside Debenhams on 2 and 3 November, with dog behaviourist and trainer Christine Emerson, offering information and advice On Tuesday 21 November the same team will be at the Swallow Hotel, South Marston to discuss dog behaviour and the facilities on offer at the veterinary hospital. It s an informal meeting with lots of opportunity to chat, meet the experts and learn. Tickets are available on a first come first served basis. To book one, call Jane Carter on 501480.

Tony and friends have so far raised over £1,500 for Brainwave, and this will pay for a three day stay at the centre. After an initial assessment, a daily exercise regime will be devised for Rachel's parents to follow. The balance of the money donated in his fundraising campaign will allow two other youngsters to benefit from the expertise of the Brainwave team. Tony's next challenge is to raise enough for a specially adapted trike costing £975. As Rachel is pushed along, with feet attached to the pedals, she will be having fun and exercising her legs at the same time.

Grooming salons are not just for poodles! Whatever shape, size or hair length, all dogs deserve a visit to Hair of the Dog Collection/delivery available, or drop your dog off in the morning and pick up in the evening 74 Basepoint. Rivermead Drive. Swindon

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

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Helping the River Ray blossom Volunteers turned out in early October to plant 1,000 wildflower seedlings to transform the River Ray restoration project between Westlea and Barnfield. The river plain left muddy and Meanders will be re-engineered FordetailsoftheRiverRayproject, barren following the restoration into the course of the river and a and how to get involved in volunproject this year will be turned shingle beach made where chil- teer activities, mail Project coordiinto a fantastic vibrant and colour- dren can paddle. Workshould start nator Jo Sayer: JoS@wiltshire wildlife.org ful meadow next Spring, with an in the Spring. increased variety of insect and bird t d^^^rvi oral dirhr 'ith volunteer Project coordinator Jo life in the area. Costa del Ray

Planning permission for more River Ray restoration, to the south '. of the footbridge, is being sought This will see the trees overshad owing the river cut right back to =n open up the whole area.

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Ugly incident near the Ray A woman walking on the old railway cycle route from Westlea to Sparcells, past Shaw Forest. was harrassed by a helmetted motorcyclist illegally using the path in October. She was verbally abused and intimidated and then followed, but she managed to get away by climbing

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Cutting trees to make them grow better A group committed to improving an unusual West Swindon wildlife habitat is appealing for volunteers to help maintain it. Peatmoor Copse is a remnant of the ancient Braydon Forest, once a royal hunting ground. It's not been built on because the ground is too unstable for development and over the last 19 years, the Peatmoor Community Woodland Group has brought the area back to life using traditional coppicing management techniques. This has resulted in a wider variety of birds, mammals and insects, whilst increasing the life of the trees. The volunteers meet on the first Sunday of the month, loam to fpm. New members are welcome to join and discover a secret part of West Swindon. Children, accompanied by adults, are welcome. There are no toilets and the site is unsuitable for wheelchairs. For details and directions call Roger Ogle on 608840.

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• TRAD E & DIY

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• DECKING • TRELLIS FELT

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 45

Relief that tests for asthma beating technology can go ahead There was a tremendous response to an appeal by Asthma Relief in September's Link for volunteers to test an air-cleansing unit which could be potentially life-changing to asthma sufferers. The organisation saw impres- unit for the trial because of cost. sive results on its first trial in Swin- However, a benefactor came fordon and want to collect more data ward in October and has bought four units. before investing in the units, Spokeswoman, Sue People, said The Asthma Relief charity was that the machines are to be tried founded by Dave Penman and is out in four households and the run from the Shaftesbury Centre. results monitored by retired West They have provided over 1,000 free Swindon GP, Dr Ian Matheson. In nebulisers and know that there is one home, three family members, greater demand. aged 72,31 and 14 are chronic asthThey have achieved an enormatics. mous amount on a shoestring "We were contacted by an amaz- budget and are seeking financial ing number of people who need backing from local businesses. Sue help and would like to volunteer said, "if we could find a local corto try the machines. The response porate sponsor, it would enable us shows that there's a big need." to achieve even more than we have Initially, it was thought that it done to date." would only be possible to buy one To help, call Sue on 611211.

Ashburton Fencing Services Limited

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SERVICES Every client & every garden is different. To fulfil the potential of your garden we o ff er a planning & design service. from a Gold Medal winning designer.

AW Gardening strikes gold Only two years after deciding to retrain as a garden designer, Andrew Wallington has picked up a gold medal at a national gardening show. When he left WH Smith, in 2004, Andrew decided to turn his hobby into a business and took an HNC in Garden Design & Planning at Lackham College. A regu^ lar Link advertiser, AW Gar^,-den Services has blossomed into a thriving business. Preparations for the Na+.° tional Amateur Gardening Ts' . Show began back in February. The design recreated a ^^ J coastal view for a small town gar- just against yourself. The judges den, pictured. This was achieved consider planting, hard landscapwith plants which would be found ing and the wow factor. in seaside resorts, and a clever ar"There was a long wait overrangement of painted panels de- night for the judges' decision. It picting a sea view, was a relief, after all the work that A driftwood bench, floats, rope went into it, to feel that people in and lobster pots all added to the the horticultural business apfeeling of a coastal retreat. A sail proved of my work as a designer. shade covered a small wooden There were also a lot of good corndeck. ments from the public." ThewholegardenhadtobecomAndrew plans to enter more pleted in six days. Andrew said competitions next year and would that the atmosphere among corn- like to involve sponsors from an petitors was friendly. "You're not early stage. See the advert above competing against other people, for contact details.

that is individually tailored to suit your taste & home. We offer a complete or phased project to suit budget and circumstances as well as planting plans, beds and border designs. General garden maintenance & landscaping also undertaken.

Good quality seed sown turf + Free delivery + No minimum order Rotavator hire available Turf laying service Commercial & domestic landscaping All work guaranteed

Fully public liability insurance. Tel Fax: 01793 850595 Mobile: 07919 543733 www.awgardenservices.co.uk

H.J.WEBB YOUR LOCALTIMBER MERCHANT

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Searching for spirits and the unexplained

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Ghosts and ghouls are all considered part of the fun of Halloween celebrations but a local group takes hauntings seriously. Paranormal Investigation Team UK offers a free investigation service for anyone who believes their house is haunted. They will gather evidence, either for, or against ghosts and poltergeist activity. The team use a variety of equipment and take a level headed approach to scientific investigation. They spend time at a property to try to find the root cause of any disturbance and prepare a full confidential report. "I think 2007 is going to be a good year with lots of new members and we are looking into some really good investigation venues," said coordinator, Trevor Hearn from Toothill. Anyone interested in the paranormal field is welcome to join. Read more at www.PITUK.co.uk or call Trevor on 07780 865548.

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The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

A year in the life of a Link reporter We don't do many by-lines, but behind most of the stories nowadays is Barbara Prothero who joined us as a freelance writer last November. Here she looks back over the range of assignments we've asked her to cover.

Arriving in Swindon a month before the birth of my first baby in December 1995, The Link was a lifeline. I used it to find out about West Swindon and the town in general, saw my children and friends in its pages and always kept back issues for reference. I imagine many people do this. Once I start researching, I'm So, when I spotted an advert ;, — & always completely absorbed last year for a journalist to join s. and have far more to write than the team, I thought it would be --'` r space will allow. A real eyet the perfect job - and it is. After opener this year has been gettwelvemonthsatthemagazine, f _# ting to know about local chariit still feels like I'm being paid r ties, most of which are run with / to do something that is also my tiny budgets and huge amounts 1 hobby. of dedication. Writing about Whereelsecould you doyour ' . their campaignshasbeenagreat research and have your legs ri ^ privilege and I've become posifake tanned, as I did when writtively evangelical about groups ing about a new salon? Who like Swindon Carers, Tea Bag i else goes to work and finds Crafts, Swindon Ocotal Link, themselves surrounded by `^ ` Asthma Relief and Lights for "" " Egyptians in need of a scribe? Learning. How many kids get to go on an ;' '; " The greatthing about The Link assignment and learn African is that people are glad to tell drumming while their mum you their story and, as a result, interviews the teacher? fascinating information In fact, my three childre , Barhern, right, getting the angle one the visit fu Abbey Meads Prirnnry Schoo! a emerges. No two days are the couldn't be h ppier that I'm in May by the Ancient Egyptian High Priest Nefa same and I can't think of anthe Link reporter. They've testdriven the Kids Aloud indoor play My first few years here centred However, some assignments other job where I'd get to meet a 90 park for me and been guinea pigs on mother and baby groups so I have taken me into unchartered year old guitarist, interview a Manat the Groundwell play area. As I have felt at ease covering anything territory. Over the past year, I've darin teacher, research a ghostprepare the listings pages, we've to do with breast-feeding or ba- had to learn about motorcycle rac- busting group and finish off by been to the theatre more this year bies. Visits to local schools have ing and leathers, colonic cleans- learningabouteyelashextensions. Every day at work fills me with than in the past five and seen some also been in my comfort zone and ing, recycling and planning proceexcellent shows. This year's Sum- I find the children a joy to talk to. dures. I've got to grips with geo- enthusiasm for the place I live in. mer Youth Production of Annie It's just a bit of a shock to realise caching, windmills and bed bugs There are so many good news stowas an inspiration, with everyone that I'm interviewing youngsters andstartedtohaveanunderstand- ries in Swindon and I'm proud to ing of how the council works. be part of telling them. now desperate for singing lessons. that I knew as toddlers.

^^1 %l /1:ill /l /S ^l^l^►^RUL^IlTLl/^ ►^ At Michael Hart and Son butchers we pride ourselves on the quality of our prodr generation family butchers, offering a personal, friendly service, We combine ou' i with modern techniques to offer you an extensive range of quality, mouth-wate

We're a third rional skills e.

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ya 4S

Eve ry thing you would expect from an award-winning butchers. And what's more, we're only a stone's throw away on Cricklade High Street. So v. , road and see for yourself. You'll wonder why y ou've never been before! We're op t offering everything from prime steak to our award-winning pies and sausages. We're now taking orders for Christmas -- choose from our extensive range of poultry, selected from local Wiltshire farms.

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Visit us today and see what you've been missing! Michael Hart & Son High Street, Cricklade Tel: 01793 750213 Fax: 01793 752119

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com 47

Swindon expert to launch national bullying charity Bullying is not just confined to the playground: it affects thousands of adults in the workplace every year and a new national helpline is to be launched from a base in Abbey Meads. It's a grubby aspect of many places of work but human resources consultant Christine Pratt is setting out to expose bullying wherever she can. She and husband David already offer a bullying helpline and web site as part of their HR Diversity Management business. On completion of her thesis on the subject, to become a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), they have Swindon Commonwealth gold medal applied to set up a charity offering boxer Jamie Cox helped launch the Swinfree advice in response to the cries don schools See it, Get help, Stop it antibullying campaign at Ridgeway School for help. Christine hopes it will be regis- in October, raising awareness for Natered by the end of the year with tional Anti-Bullying Week, from 20 to 24 November, run by the Anti-Bullying sponsorship from blue chip compaAlliance. nies. "The helpline is for employees who feel that they are being bullied, Fifty-four per cent of secondary school but management can call as well. It children think bullying is a big problem. For help and advice, go to is the only helpline with qualified www.gethelpwithbnllying.org .uik CIPD personnel. We give practical advice at the outset." She added that surveys show Although, calls come in from all that 10 per cent of employees are sectors, Christine finds that 85 per bullied or suffer from sexual har- cent of the bullying cases she deals assment and 20 per cent leave their with are in the public sector. She jobs because of bullying. Each day puts this down to low funding, Christine and David receive 20 to low resources and high stress lev30 e-mails and calls from people els due to the pressure put on staff who feel they are being bullied. to perform better. Christine was closely involved Christine's advice on what to do in the employment tribunal this if you're being bullied at work summer where deputy head• Try to defuse the situation. teacher Sue Preston from Plymouth Confront the bully and explain in won a case against her employers. a calm voice that their behaviour Christine and David received over is upsetting and you'd like it 300 calls afterwards. to stop: Swindon is certainly not im• If you feel bullied by a manager, mune and the helpline has taken request a one-to-one meeting calls from staff at most of the large when you can explain how you feel and identify ways to resolve companies in the town and several schools. Christine said, "sadly, sevmatters; • Speak to someone you trust and eral large blue chips in Swindon tell them how you feel. Consider are in denial of bullying problems seeing a counsellor; this may be and still want to use their own HR available at work; department to deal with it inter• Seek advice from your HR nally." department and familiarise "Dick Mattick, from the teachyourself with policies and your ing union NASUWT has written to statutory rights: South Swindon MP Anne Snel• Keep a personal diary of grove recommending that LEAs incidents, keeping to the facts and Local Authorities work closer and note who was present. with us." If things continue 10 concern you.' • Check your Contract of If you feel you're being bullied Employment and read the or harrassed, call 0901 742 0388 company grievance policy; www.bullyingbusiness.co.uk • Put your complaint in writing; • Seek advice about your statutory rights and company procedures • Visit your GP and tell him about the problem; • Contact the National Bullying Helpline or some other professional organisation; Consider requesting an independent investigation.

Bullying TV drama features Christine's work An ITV drama focused on the Sue Preston tribunal in which Christine was involved will be aired in the week commencing 22 November

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ii 49

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For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606

Alec McKay

ESTIMATES

• Free quotations

RJ PEARCE Plumbing & Heating Service,

J 5 Propem 5ervim

ELECTRICIAN

PLUMBING & HEATING LTD

rte/

DECORATOR FREE

• 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service

07970 865883 25 Kennet Avenue. Greenmeadow

Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Carpentry services

Friendly, reliable & competitive

Call Glen on: 01793 487450

Ree r-131^:

NEED A PLUMBER? GB Plumbing Services for all your domestic plumbing needs: leaks, burst pipes, radiators, immersions, hot water cylinders, taps, toilets, tanks, ball valves and bathroom installations. Call 01793 524200

07774 841879

TILING 'R N

• FELT ROOFING • ASPHALT ROOFING • SHEET ROOFING • TILING -. SLATING

• FASCIA • GUTTERING

CALL NEIL ON 01793 700436 07725 028776

Building Guttering and fascia All carpentry External painting Internal painting & decorating Drives jet washed Tiling

ALL WORK GUARANTEED. FULLY INSURED

ROOFING

• SINGLE PLY

All garden work Concreting paths Patio repairs Patio jet wash Repair or replace small walls Hedges & trees cut Grass cutting

Plumbing repairs Toilets, wash basins, bath taps, overflows repaired or replaced

HOUSE MA

ALL EXTERNAL & INTERNAL WORK

GILES BROS CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921

Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526

ACCOUNTANCY Specialising in: • Small Businesses • Tax advice, planning and payroll • All aspects of accountancy and business development • We offer a personal service with very competitive rates

i CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS

01793 610008

AERIAL SERVICES

CHRIS PAYNE

Aerial & Television

AERIALS

& SATELLITE SYSTEMS Satellite TV Sky & digital terrestial

* Storm damage ^^^

Located o ff the A419, ample parking 16 Dorcan Business Village. Murdock Road. Swindon SN3 5HY

CARPET CLEANING

CHAUFFEUR HIRE

The Carpet& Upholstery Cleaning Specialist

• Carpets, rugs. cu rt ains. suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed

Professional fitting service and satisfaction guaranteed. Contact Trevor for a no obligation

01'

53490 It 508840

or mobile: 07808 355487

www.carpetsswindon.co.uk

Email:

Seiip The Automatic Choice

Fast, menuly

for your he

Let

e (pet L

or business

THEPCGUYS

with a Bioflow magnet - for people and pets Call (01793) 608840

MINI BUS H IRE

From Swindon to... Gatwick - Heathrow Bristol - Birmingham Stansted For family holidays, business trips and all occasions, we cater for 1 to 8 passengers Call for a competitive quote now!

for a colour brochure

Monthly Tel: 01793 814782

Project manager Mandy 17 Elcombe Avenue, Wroughton

Tel: 01793 703899

JUST PULL UP, PRESS A BUTTON AND DRIVE IN

email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk

www.garagedoorsupplies.co.uk

gquysontine.corn

JOHN'S Relieve pain & discomfort

• Fortnightly

01793 513796

080oo 514 513 MAGNET THERAPY

Weekly

A wide range of garage doors to suit your requirements See our displays at THE GARAGE DOOR CENTRE Maxwell House, Maxwell Street. Swindon or for information on installation and repairs

We'll fix it.

CLEANING

GARAGE DOORS

PC Problem? .1

01225 706379

or 07774 943 783

www.donendusted.co.uk

crIt,%Nhitex%:^N( htiu,ter„et.com

COMPUTER SUPPORT

filters fitted

work o uarantced Call Neil Provis on

Mob: 07909 500724

You'll be amazed how affordable it is

Tel: 01793 812995 Mobile: 07860 882588

charge

Domestic Cleaning Services

til

...call for your free estimate from N oui local independent on 01793 731418

lately? Tetra

,t * ,t * * CUTIVE TRAVF

• Quickly usable

interference No call out

lDone r n' (Dusted

• Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured Cpl

appointment at a time to suit you, day or evening.

TV/FM/DAB aerials • Extra satellite points • TV repairs • Freeview installation Noticed • Signal amplifiers

1 j4rt Luxury Private Hire ei

Services •

,All

SKY Tel: 0119 3 700078 Mobile: 0111 6236415 •

jff Whitewa^, Swindon's specialist home selection service for laminate, wool twists, man made/natural fibres and vinyl floor covering

4''

Extra TV. telephone & electrical points

or visit www.dykebrading.co.uk to see how we can help your business

CARPETS

AERIAL SERVICES

10% discount with this advert

OVEN CLEANING -

REMOVALS

MAN 0 EN CLEAN WHITE VAN Single items The Domestic Oven Cleaning Service

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

moved anywhere in Swindon for £20 Disposal of unwanted items House clearance Long/short distance Call for a free quote Tel: 01793 706821 Mobile: 07796 236436

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

JJJf

APPLIANCE REPAIRS

F REMIER lectri cs

Same day, local service wherever possible

Establishes

30 years

Guaranteed

Washing Machines Twin Tubs, etc. Tumble Driers I. S.E. Food Waste Disposal Units Service Spares Repairs

Can't face doing the books after a hard day's work? Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 15 years' experience.

repairs to

all makes of domestic

appliances Same day/next day service

Tel:01793 469300 CLEANING

BOOK-KEEPING

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748 vw.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

CLEANING

STHRT Domestic Cleaning Services

Affordable & reliable cleaning programmes, tailored to meet your needs and budget

• Regular weekly cleans • Fortnightly cleans • One-off Spring cleans

Regular cleans. Spring cleans, moving in or out cleans Trained and insured staff. Equipment and supplies provided Quality Service Guarantee

Call Christine on (01793) 701413 Mob: 07951 184424

Call us now for free, no obligation quotation

should be? Look no further, let me help you Ring Sylvia on e_ 01791771552

www.cakesbaked4u.co.uk

PC Repairs Why go anywhere else?. When we'll come to you..... Free home & business visits i= Jargon free advice & support S Upgrades/repairs -i= All parts & labour guaranteed S Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends

Tel: 01793 422534 or

Mobile: 0792 005 6077

Tel; 01793 511885

Microsoft

IRONING WWW.S AMQUEEN . ::

')CLEAR CLEAR AWAY CLEARANCE

Or not known what design the Wedding cake

Unit 55A, BSS House. Cheney Manor Ind Est, Swindon

GARDEN CLEARANC E

HOUSEHOLD

Had trouble finding that special cake?

COMPUTER SUP

Homes That Sparkle merry rn /d& From People Who Shine to

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H CE CHIT

GARDEN

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24 Hour Ironing Service Collect (

LOGISTI

Got something to move - large or small? rur.

dl • Yt^>^

NO JOB TOO SMALL Also odd jobs & lawn mowing Free estimates Call Danny on 01793 702407

Iron

5 fully insured vehicles with driver. From a long wheel based to a small van, we have what you need

Deliver

turners Logistics Ltd.

or 07957 820064

TEL: 07951 482342

Call 0 7862 735433

SECURITY SYSTEMS

^SE

security systems ltd

Expert Design & Installation of Electronic Security for Commercial, Industrial and Residential Customers • CCTV • Access Control & Intercoms • Intruder Alarms • Gates & Barriers • 24 Hour Xionitorine _

SECURITY SYSTEMS MGMZ 1JL II7J Y Electronic Security Solutions O INTRUDER ALARMS O CCTV SYSTEMS O FIRE ALARMS J EAS DETECTION SYSTEMS 7 ACCESS CONTROL ) ENTRY SYSTEMS D GATE AUTOMATION

e: ' ssaib

^,,

For a free, no obligation quotation ®s^SSalb tel: 01793 705216 _.

TV & VI DEO REPAIRS GOGGLEBOX TV & VIDEO REPAIR SERVICE Free home estimates

* No call out charge All repairs guaranteed

Tel: 01793-812738

The virtual Link Magazine now online @ www.swindonlink.com

Sunday club in Taw Hill A new group for 3 to 11 year olds has started on the third Sunday of the month between 2pm and 4pm at St Francis Primary School. For details about joining call Rev Mike Haslam on 07817 703929 or mail mikeajamaa.eclipse.co.uk • Christmas Fun Day on Saturday 2 December. 2pm to 4pm, at St Francis with stalls, activities and games and refreshments.

Christmas stalls signing up Lesley Dredge and a team of volunteers are again organising Christmas In the Lane on 10 December. Stalls will be setup in Old Shaw Lane and in front yards between 4pm and 7pm and money raised will be donated to the Prospect Hospice and Breakthrough Breast Cancer. To hold a stall, in retur n for a donation to the good causes, call Lesley on 772869.

Anth rnv cul Mobile Hairdresser

( 01 793) 3 234 00 or 07970 079681 Over 20 years experience in ladies, mens & llllldr 'lls It airdressinl

^I r.vr,G Professional Mobile Hairdresser Free consultations for all new customers Call now for an appointment Tel: 01793 871307 Mob: 07887 778899

Celebration of life and thanks for nursing care A disco in memory of former Swindon Council worker John Farquhar will remember his zest for life while raising money for Marie Curie Cancer Care. A mini auction and disco take place at Stratton Communit y Centre on Friday 24 November, 7pm to 11.30pm. Tickets at £5 are available from Liz Brackenbury on 832715.

Letter to The Link

P5 SERVICES

LEARN TO PLAY

PAINTING & DECORATING GENERAL MAINTENANCE No job too small Free estimates

THE VIOLIN with Swindon Suzuki Strings Suitable for all ages

Call Phil on 827557 Mobile: 07790 102280

01793 700099 http://www.mab.tgis.co.uk ' <'

LET US STEAM THROUGH YOUR IRONING]

Lydiard Ironing Services

?% DISC SERVICESv Specialist in Cine Film Transfer. Camcorde Tapes, VHS Tapes. Camcorder Discs %Ne collect and deliN er uoera o%ide are:

From Colin Wood. Sudeley Way On the morning of Saturday 30 September I found that the boot lock cover-badge had been removed from my Alfa Romeo. This had obviously been accomplished with the use of reasonable

strength. as the car was parked on my driveway, and the badge is a protector against rain. Would the parents of this badge collector please explain to him/her.

that to vandalise cars is not the

correct way to collect car badges. I' m assuming this is not just van-

dalism. I would also appreciate recompense for the replacement of the locking unit and the purchase of a new key. I am an OAP and money is not available to make unnecessary repairs of this nature, but I do make every effort to keep my possessions in good condition.

Free collection & delivery. reliable & friendly Regular or ad-hoc service • 24 hour turnaround Hangers available

T: 01793 705333 / M: 07831 575758

Tel: 01793 725061

PO Box 2079, Manvers St. Bath BA1 3TJ

Reading The Link virtually Last month we made it possible to read the magazine online, as you see it on paper. We've had some good reaction. Darren Turner mailed us from Perth. Western Australia. 'I do miss The Link since I returned here after several years living in Swindon. It's informative and helpful and whilst I won't need to use the advertisers any longer,

Joan Smith from Blunsdon wrote to us: `I was so pleased to fi nd that I can read The Link online. I've just emailed a friend who left West Swindon for Sweden to tell her that she can keep up to date with everything here. 'It's also handy to be able to find something quickly on the web instead of having to root around the house for last month's copy of

touch with the town, and my children might see some of their old classmates pictured in it.

DUI/ UII CI:L II VIII yVUl IU CII

the magazine. 'It was really easy to use and

'Thanks for making the magazine available worldwide.'

manufacturer and save money

li ked seeing the whole page on the screen, just like the real thing.'

The online version can be found at: www.swindonlink.com

At Faringdon Upholstery we manufacture top quality upholstery supplied direct to the public. We mak your furniture the way you want it, with thousands of fabrics to choose from ^'la

* Established 25 years

$ r'l^

* Craftsman built

* All suites fully guaranteed r

* All suites covered in choice of fabric * Solid wood frames * Made to measure * Re-upholstery

* Curtains

Don't settle for mass produced when you can have i made-to-measure r the same price! Come and

01367 2418 155 r

it's fantastic that I can keep in

BITES4 f odbank

Helping individuals and familie s in crisis with free emergency food www.swindonfoodbank.co.uk

Make your site work harder for you Does your web site need a makeover? Generate more business via the web, or ensure your service is portrayed

as best as it can.

www.rubberdragon.c om

see our wide selection of

suites today To promote y our web sites in The Link and also at www.swindonlink.com call Nicola Norridge on 602540

The virtua l Link M agazin e n ow o nline @ www.swindonlink.com 55

Bond title says it all for new vicar When Rev Beth Brown googled Swindon before taking up her post as Community Vicar in North Swindon, she was fascinated to find that the Motorola factor had featured in a Bond movie. A great film fan, she thought the Haslam, taking services at Taw Hill title very fitting as The World is Not worship centre and St Andrews, Enough would be a good way to Blunsdon but most of her time will sum up how she feels. be spent out in the community. Rev Brown, rig/it, says that in Having moved to Taw Hill from her new role in the parish of North Bath in September, she is still findSwindon, she hopes to find ways ingherway round the town. Knowfor people to explore the big quesing how it feels to be a newcomer tions of life and death and help is certain to be a help in her work them find a connection with God. among the ever expanding parish She said that many people adof North Swindon. mit to abelief in God and the power To contact Rev Beth on 747493 of prayer even though they don't or mail: beth.brown@nschurch go to church. "Society has changed .org.uk and certainly in Swindon it's more connect with God in their everybased on networks and interests, day lives, because He is concerned rather than geographical location. with the small things as well as The church is finding new ways of being there on the big occasions." meeting people and helping them She works closely with Rev Mike y

Christ the Servant ten years on

Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258

St. John's Haydon Wick

^ m m ^

building with people

Sunday services are at IOam & 6.30pm For further information you can

either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org the ,4ttofGo,

. ia!Life'

Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School

NSBC

D.^ 7THAMES 1-

School .

t °obey Meatls

Village

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

ta'

Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche

Ten years ago, the first minister of the growing Abbey Meads church set down her hopes for the future in The Link. Deaconess Maureen Spinks was nity in Abbey Meads," she wrote. the first minister for the Church of The Deaconess hoped to bring Christ the Servant which, at that into being a place where, "what it ti me, met in the front room of the means to believe can be explored, manse. "The church wants to play spiritual life can be deepened and an active role in the new commu- experience of God can be discovered." Now the church is at the heart of Christmas Care the community and its congregavolunteer meetings tion has grown. Worship takes many forms, from Sunday servTemporary shelter for homeices and times for prayer, to home less and lonely people, and those in need, willbeavailable groups and youth activities in the over the Christmas period at form of the God Squad. The building is used for meetQueens Drive Methodist Church, from 24 December to ings throughout the week by fourteen different groups. It seems that 28 December. Volunteers are needed to pre- the Maureen's dreams of a decade pare and run the project. People ago have been realised. Over 100 people came together willing to help are asked to atat the church at Abbe Meads viltend meetings at the church on lage centre on 1 October to cel16 or 21 November. both at 8pm. For detai Is call Patsy Maloney ebrate a decade of ministry to North Swindon. on 642368. For details on the church and Donations wanted. Details will groups using the building, call Rev be published next month of items Brian Sweetman on 706558. needed and where to deliver. www.christtheservant.org.uk

On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons

vangol. OO ! Worsley Road

For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son.' John 3:16

For details of our weekly services please contact the Partnership Office on 874221 partnershipoffice@btopenworld. corn

newfrontiers

swindonfamilychurch The Alpha Course - Explore Christianity Babies & Toddlers - Wednesday Mornings Kid's Church & Youth Work

Sunday Services 9am Traditional communion service 11am Eventful, contempora ry worship with children's groups meeting

Sundays 10.30am Family friendly worship and Bible teaching

Alpha The Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea

ww. swi ndonlamllychurch.org.uk

•

-••

•!

I Tel: 01793 526130

www.swindonfamilychurch.org.uk

'AU ►°I I(A' I 1

s^i^^^^nc1 by ^h. Naiiun al Lone} through "1

® Heritage Lottery Fund

/^^ \`^

`J^`J

JW i n D on BOROUGH COU0C1L