Shaun: ‘Join me to launch Aladdin at the Wyvern Theatre’s Big Link first night on 5 December.’ See details on page 22 No. 318 November 2008 • Circulation 27,000
the positive newsforce in Swindon and the swindon wide what’s on guide
West Forum to discuss two new parks Two huge outdoor projects are reaching the development stage - Moulden Hill Country Park and the third phase of Shaw Forest Park. Talk to the designers and see the outline plans for both at the West Swindon Forum - see page 13
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Right, the Mayor of Swindon, Steve Wakefield, waiting for the steam railway to arrive at Moulden Hill
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swindonlink.com • November 2008
Grandmother’s plea for return of precious family possessions
As the season of goodwill approaches, Marie Burch hopes that someone can help her find precious Advent calendars sewn for her two grandchildren. She believes that a package containing the calendars was taken from her doorstep last December and is appealing for them to be returned. Sending the calendars, filled with goodies for five year old Clara and Joseph, aged two, has become a family tradition. Marie personalised each one and sends them each year to the youngsters, who live in the United States. “I filled the two of them last year with little tidbits and posted them to my daughter in Colorado in mid-October,” said Marie. Unfortunately the package didn’t arrive in the States and was returned to sender. Marie, holding one of her handmade Arriving home late, after a Advent calendars day trip to London, Marie found a notification of delivery anonymously at reception at Basefrom the Royal Mail but the pack- point Business Centre, Rivermead age had gone. Drive, Westlea, c/o The Link. The calendars are embroidered “I’m not interested in blame,” with the names Clarabel and Jo- said Marie. “I just hope that whoseph and Marie hopes they will be ever took them hasn’t thrown them returned. They can be dropped off in the bin.”
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Town centre tributes to war dead
In addition to the Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in Regent Circus, this year there will be a second ceremony at Wharf Green to mark Armistice Day. Mayor Steve Wakefield and the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, John Bush, will take part in the traditional memorial service at the Cenotaph outside the old Town Hall on Sunday 9 November, 10.30am. On Armistice Day, Tuesday 11 November, 11am, the Mayor will attend a short service and two minute silence at the Cenotaph. A service will also take place at Wharf Green arranged by InSwindon. Veterans and troops from Colerne will march along Canal Walk accompanied by a piper. There will be a short reading of war poems before a bugle marks the beginning of a two minute silence at 11am as shoppers pause to remember the war dead from all conflicts since World War I.
Honour at war graves
A tribute service will be held on Sunday 9 November, 2pm, in Radnor Street cemetery to remember the servicemen who fell for their country and are buried there.
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Mansfield Begbie Associates Ltd
Crunch causes month delay for Kevin’s grand design on Swindon
A public meeting in October where TV presenter Kevin McCloud was to present his final proposals for a new kind of housing in Swindon - as advertised in the October Link - had to be postponed.
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Kevin, speaking at the Swindon Civic Trust on 16 October
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We may be able to find 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 property, with over 21 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.
For a free mortgage consultation and further information, call us now.
A trip in early November to raise money for pancreatic cancer by Steve Kuenan from Grange Park as reported in the October Link, had to be delayed until next year after he injured himself in training. Steve, whose mother died in February from the disease, will continue to fundraise towards his £3,000 target during his recovery. Help him at: www.justgiving.com/stevekuenen
Tel: (01793) 608840 Fax: (01793) 608841 e: publisher@swindonlink.com
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
www.swindonlink.com
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Mansfield Begbie Associates Limited is an appointed representative of Legal & General Partnership Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for advising on and arranging mortgages and insurance
“We just wanted to be certain that we gave ourselves enough time to get everything absolutely right.” Hab project director Mike Roberts said Pickards Field will attract attention for different reasons. “Not only will the homes far exceed present energy conservation standards and demonstrate urban planning innovations already proven in parts of Europe, getting agreement will be very unusual. “In the present financial climate very, very few building projects are getting the go ahead.” The date for the presentation of the Pickard Fields scheme will be announced at www.swindonlink. com when the project partners have set a date.
However, no completion no fee.
e: info@mansfieldbegbie.co.uk www.mansfieldbegbie.co.uk
The joint project by Hab Housing and Oakus Wiltshire Ltd, part of the Green Square Group that also includes Westlea Housing Association, and Swindon Borough Council, for 200 new eco-homes at Pickard’s Small Field, Gorse Hill has been hit by the financial uncertainties affecting every business and all the necessary legal agreements were not signed in time for the advertised meeting. Kevin is optimistic that all the partners will be on board for a public presentation in November or early December. “There are four organisations involved which makes for complex decision making. But more people have a stake in making the project a success,” he said.
advertising Enquiries Call (01793) 602540 or mail: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for December advertisements: 7 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 Copy for January: 5 December printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027. sought permission. Articles and Registered Office: 130 High Street, Hungerford, Berks. Printed by pcp, Telford photographs require similar authority The Link cannot be held responsible for goods or services offered by its advertisers
Editorial copy date for December: 7 November Published: 29 November
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swindonlink.com • November 2008
Police set up two day reach out service and call for priority assistance
West Swindon North Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) is organising two ‘reach-out’ days where residents will be able to meet officers and PCSOs in different locations around the patch to discuss issues of concern, writes PCSO Amanda Baker. Police Surgeries Look out for the Neighbourhood Police Team bus at these locations: Officers will also be available to meet people at Link Centre Library on Thursday 20 November Tuesday 18 November, 12noon to 2pm. 5.30pm - 6pm: Sparcells Community Centre, Sparcells Drive 6.15pm - 6.45pm: Stockbridge Copse, Peatmoor Help set the police priorities in your community 7pm - 7.30pm: Sherwood Road, Peatmoor The police hold regular Neighbourhood Tasking Group (NTG) meetings 7.45pm - 8.15pm: Old Shaw Lane (east - Lower Shaw Farm end) with other agencies and residents to discuss problems affecting an area 8.15pm - 8.45pm: Castleton Road, Middleleaze and to come up with ways to improve community safety, provide reassurance and reduce crime and disorder. Friday 21 November Local people are important to this process of looking at the root causes 5.30pm - 6pm: Pilgrim Close, Shaw Village Centre of problems and setting priorities for the police teams and partner organi6.15pm - 6.45pm: Shaw Ridge Leisure Park sations to attend to. The next NTG takes place on Monday 1 December, 7pm - 7.30pm: The Brampton’s Club House 7pm, at West Swindon Police Point, opposite Link Centre. Come along 7.45pm - 8.15pm: Link Centre Library These are not crime reporting meetings. Call 0845 408 7000 with informa- if you feel you can contribute ideas to making West Swindon a safer place to live and work. tion regarding criminal activities. Motorbike, scooter and mini-moto thefts We have had reports of bikes being stolen and ridden in the Freshbrook area. The police take a no tolerance approach to this illegal activity and four people have recently been arrested. If you own a motorised two wheeler, keep it secure and well out of sight, otherwise you might find it wrecked and burnt out.
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Do you know BCB? Help us catch this tagger An individual is leaving scribbles throughout West Swindon and we want to catch him or her. Please call 0845 408 7000 if you can tip us off with any information. Post a note to your local police person The West Swindon North and South NPTs have put up letter boxes in ASDA West, Toothill and Freshbrook community centres where you can post reports about anti-social behaviour or any other information you think we should know about. But if reporting a crime, call the number above. On the web Information about all NPTs throughout Swindon can be found at www. wiltshire.police.uk
The new Keeping Swindon Safe Bus toured Swindon during national Not in my Neighbourhood Week in mid-October. Amanda Baker is pictured with police volunteer Simon Sanghera and Cynthia and Reg Davies from Freshbrook
At the eye of the storm The world holds its breath as US citizens vote for their next president, and former Greendown School and Swindon College student Alex Ogle, now a journalist in Washington DC, reports for www.swindonlink.com on a momentous election.
Win a remarkable view of modern history Acclaimed journalist and film maker John Pilger is marking fifty years investigating the issues that governments and large corporations across the planet don’t want the public to know about. The multiple award winner visited the Swindon Festival of Literature in May and now Network is releasing Heroes, The films of John Pilger 1970 - 2007, a sixteen-disc definitive collection of his documentaries replete with many special features including a biography and the acclaimed documentary series The Outsiders in addition to his latest film The War on Democracy. This collection retails at £99.99 and this is an amazing opportunity to win an insight into world affairs. Two runner ups will win Volume 4 of Pilger’s collected documentaries. To enter go to www.swindonlink.com
16/10/08 14:47:49
swindonlink.com • November 2008
7
Buy a teddy and help MS Centre make its way West
Swindon’s Therapy Centre for MS hopes to relocate to larger premises in 12 months time, but has seen the bill for moving increase by £200,000. The charity launched its Moving fillers and are available for a miniSoon Appeal in the January Link and mum donation of £1.50. Enjoy a cabaret evening at The has looked at three buildings since then. MS Centre manager Jackie Moonrakers on 15 November. Call Jackie on 481700 to buy a Wray said the charity trustees had set themselves a target of £500,000 box of bears or to purchase cabaret to purchase and fit out a building tickets. but hopes to exchange contracts Curry night for MS Centre on a larger facility in Westlea by 17 November. Bombay Lounge, the end of the year. “It’s an empty Peatmoor. Enjoy a set price all you office and much bigger than we can eat buffet at £12.50 or order from originally intended, but it will offer the menu. Call 887799 to book. much better long term opportuniwww.msswindon.org.uk ties to provide services to people suffering from MS. “However the cost of buying and refurbishing it, as well building an extension to house a larger oxygen chamber, has increased our target by another £200,000. So we’re desperate for money to help us achieve our dream.” The MS Centre also needs £45,000 a year to run its day to day support and therapy activities and does not receive any health service funding. How to help Swindon’s Therapy Centre for MS: Sell a box of teddies each sporting a Care for MS logo at work Bag a box of bears, MS centre user Jan or school. They’re ideal stocking Bowers and centre manager Jackie Wray
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Keeping communities clear of litter - or not Shaw and Eastleaze One of Swindon Council’s Community Safety Department’s regular Safe and Clean Days takes place on 27 November, from 8am. Council officers and waste operatives will be picking up litter and removing graffiti. Residents are welcome to join in with this tidy up. For details call Jane Dudley on 466473 or mail: jdudley@swindon.gov.uk St Andrews’ Ridge Litter is afflicting the area, particularly around the local centre, and Michael Wills MP has called on Swindon Council to ensure a long awaited management company is formed soon to take responsibility for keeping it neat and tidy. A Swindon spokesperson said the St Andrews’ Ridge local centre is private property so the council’s responsibility is limited, but the council’s litter picking team visits the residential areas regularly to remove rubbish.
Swindon Advertiser takes the lead from The Link about elected mayor
The Link’s campaign with talkswindon.org to give Swindon voters the chance to express their view on whether to have an elected mayor - denied to them in 2001 - found its way into the council chamber on 25 September when LibDem councillor Stan Pajak put down a motion calling on the council to consider organising a referendum. However the combined forces of leader and we reported that 56 per the Conservative and Labour coun- cent of people surveyed by Swindon cillors rejected the notion of giving Council had supported the idea, but people the chance to take part in a the council buried it. The Link has publicised the isreferendum to decide whether a leader elected by voters was prefer- sue since June as there is clearly able to a leader decided by the party unfinished business for Swindon people. Articles since have been in control of the council. As a result of September’s debate accompanied by a lively debate at in the council chamber the Advertiser talkswindon.org where there is an ran a week of stories and an opinion online survey and a petition calling survey during Local Democracy for a referendum to take place. Background articles can also be found at Week, 13 to 19 October. Political reporter James Wallin www.swindonlink.com Geoff Reid of talkswindon.org said the paper felt it important to raise the subject with a wider audi- said, “our local councillors have ence. “Whilst they are not willing to yet to explain, or even discuss, why organise a referendum, the politi- they ignored the wishes of Swindon cians keep saying they want to hear voters in 2001. Electing the council from the voters of Swindon about leader is a live issue but local party the issue of an elected leader. So politicians are afraid that their grip we’re keen to complement what The on council power might be prised Link and talkswindon.org have been from them and ordinary people be doing, explain both sides of the issue given a direct say.” The result of the Advertiser survey and give people across the town was due to be announced on 20 Octotheir chance to speak out.” In April the Institute of Public ber with follow up articles expected, Policy Research published a review after The Link went to press. Coun Pajak welcomed the wider of the work of elected mayors since local government legislation debate after his effort in the council required councils to hold consulta- chamber was brushed aside. “I tions on whether people wanted welcome the exposure that differelected leaders in their areas. In ent media are giving the subject. 2001 The Link was the only Swindon Greater awareness and more enmedia to highlight the opportuni- gagement in the politics of our town ties presented by having an elected will benefit local democracy.”
Online communities link to each other Two of Swindon’s most popular internet forums are working together to offer online opportunities to debate, express views and post information. talkswindon.org is now hosting Swindontalk.org after it suddenly disappeared in July. Geoff Reid, founding member of Talkswindon said there is a place for both forums. “They might have similar names but are very different in content and focus, so they complement rather than compete with each other. Talkswindon members tend to debate political and philosophical topics - issues like the directly elected leader and the identity card - whereas Swindontalk has a lighter and more social atmosphere to it.” www.talkswindon.org www.Swindontalk.org
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Kids walk for diabetes
A youngster who will be walking the length of Thamesdown Drive to mark her sixth birthday wants more people to join her to raise money for Swindon Children with Insulin Dependent Diabetes (SCWIDD).
Holly Trayor, who appeared on the front page last month, was diagnosed with diabetes in February after months of feeling tired and declining health. Eventually her condition was diagnosed and she now has to inject insulin twice a day to maintain the right blood sugar levels. Mum Charley, from Redhouse, said. “Holly loved seeing her picture in the October Link and I’ve had lots of calls and parents in the playground at Red Oaks Primary saying Holly and Kane, walking for diabetes they want to take part. “I’ve since discovered that Chilcott, 11, who was diagnosed November is Diabetes Awareness with diabetes at the same time. Month so we’ll be raising money for He has been asked to give a talk at SCWIDD and also promoting what Isambard School. The Thamesdown Drive trek it’s like to live with diabetes.” As a result of the article Holly and takes place during half term on Charley were invited onto Swindon Tuesday 4 November. To take part or offer sponsorship call Charley Community Radio - 105.5fm. Holly will be walking with Kane Traynor on 0791 737 1227.
Lighten up with Lumie lamps Win the chance to ward off the winter blues Waking to sunlight streaming through the windows is guaranteed to lift the spirits, but after a cloudy summer and a barely passable Autumn, many people might be wondering why they don’t feel quite right. The grim news from the financial markets and future job prospects is bad enough, but one of the causes of feeling off colour could be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Sunshine is a natural moodbooster, influencing the body's chemistry and making people feel more awake and positive. In contrast, the cold, grey winter days can result in the blues for some people, and some bright light treatment could lift their mood. Thankfully it is possible to recreate that bright start to the day even in the depths of the British winter. Lighting company Lumie makes a Bodyclock Dawn Simulator which wakes you with a gradually brightening light, like sunrise, which acts as a natural cue for the body to reduce the levels of sleep hormones and gradually increase the levels of get up and go hormones such as cortisol. Waking with light every day will help reset the sleep/wake cycle and has been shown to boost mood, productivity and energy levels for the rest of the day. Lumie have pioneered dawn simulation and have been working in the field of light therapy for 17 years. They produce a range of products including light boxes and visors which can be used to treat
1 - 21 November 08.indd 10
light deprivation. It is estimated that 5 million people in the UK suffer from SAD or the milder version, winter blues. Increasing numbers of GPs recommend light therapy to patients suffering with SAD but anti-depressants are still the most common treatment. Trials found it as effective as Prozac but results were quicker and there were no side effects from light therapy. www.lumie.com www.sad.uk.com
Win a Bodyclock Dawn Simulator. Find out more at: www.swindonlink.com
15/10/08 17:10:42
swindonlink.com • November 2008
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15/10/08 17:11:43
swindonlink.com • November 2008
13
Two new parks up for discussion at West Forum
The development of Moulden Hill Country Park in North Swindon and the third phase of Shaw Forest Park in West Swindon will be discussed at the West Swindon Forum on Monday 10 November, in the Link Centre community suite.
The two areas have been in development for well over ten years but plans are now being finalised for improvements which will allow the public to fully access them over the next few years. The February Link featured plans for Moulden Hill which is being created by Swindon Council with major input from the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust and the Swindon & Cricklade Railway Society. An entrance road and a car park was to be built in time for the summer but evidence of great crested newts close to the canal was found which meant a delay until a major environmental study was completed. Swindon Council landscape architect Russell Weymouth said, “we have approval for the access road and car park, so that people don’t
have to park on Thamesdown Drive as they have for some time, a grass football pitch for juniors close to the entrance, a multi-use all weather surface and possibly a cricket pitch. We’re also in discussion with our partners for a building which could serve as changing rooms, visitor centre and perhaps a train station in the future. At present we’re undertaking detailed designs and costing the project and I welcome a discussion at the West Swindon Forum to get public reaction to the outline scheme.” A mile away another major outdoor project is just being launched: the third phase of the huge Shaw Forest Park development. The redevelopment of the first phases next to Mead Way is nearing completion, with some 70,000 trees planted over the last 15 years. In the last twelve months footpaths have been laid, a car park created and fenced off, a flat games area seeded and final land shaping undertaken. The third The section of Mouldon Hill Country Park under discussion (with added annotations)
It’s time to get mapping
The October Link carried a world exclusive - the public launch of The People’s Map, a project by getmapping.com to give citizens the chance to map out Britain using getmapping aerial images. getmapping managing director Tristan Carey asked readers to contribute their local knowledge by not only drawing the roads of Swindon, but adding features like schools, play areas, pubs and churches. The Link has also invited readers to plot out its maps of West and North Swindon and Amanda Dickson from Redhouse has started adding to The People’s Map. She mailed to say, ‘I registered and found the instructions easy to follow and the process easy to use. Although I am used to digital mapping systems through my job, local maps are really important and I think people will quickly get to grips with the People’s Map.’ There is a lot of work to map Swindon as it’s almost a blank space. Sign up at www.peoplesmap.com The People’s Map is easy to navigate compared to the Magic Roundabout
The Mayor Steve Wakefield reviewing the plans with Russell Weymouth
phase, between Shaw Forest and the Gloucester railway line was used for dry landfill until 2006. Over the next four years it will be capped with a further twenty feet of clay and top soil, landscaped and trees planted, before a network of footpaths is made to eventually give public access. The project will be undertaken by Swindon Council’s Waste Services department, who have commissioned a film featuring West Swindon residents enjoying Shaw Forest and describing the next phase of work. Representatives of Waste
Services will attend the forum to show the film and discuss the work to be undertaken and explain how it will be linked in with Shaw Forest and the River Ray Parkway. • The Forum is a meeting point for the West Swindon councillors and residents interested in discussing community issues. The meeting on 10 November starts at 7.30pm.
Shaw Forest DVD
For a free copy explaining the work to be undertaken, call Bob Fisher on 07786 020886
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PACKAGING & STATIONERY AT GREAT PRICES
Dreaming big at Isambard
Honda has launched a programme of workshops to explore the power of dreams, imagination and creativity and Isambard Community School is one of the first schools to take part.
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Dream coordinators Emma and Ian Hethrington, with from left, Stephanie Bush, Liam Swepson, Harry Thompson, Fraaz Naqvi, Keeleigh Chapman, David Callen
Sarah Fowler, PR Operations Manager at Honda (UK), said the School of Dreams project has been designed to help young people develop skills and confidence to achieve their goals. “At Honda we have a core philosophy: the power of dreams, which means when we pursue our dreams, we feel empowered and it gives us the strength to overcome challenges.” Twenty-four Isambard students were joined by twelve pupils from Abbey Meads and Haydon Leigh Primary Schools to spend two days in workshops run by Honda. Another team of six, made up of staff from the three schools, carried out the same tasks as the students. The first aim was to encourage
young people to think creatively and to have aspirations in life. Then students were shown a series of tools, such as Mind Mapping, to help them achieve their aims. There was also work on presentation skills and the course ended with each team explaining their dreams through drama, music, animation, web sites and PowerPoint. Craig Tamlyn, lead teacher for Design and Technology said that over the next six months the programme will be delivered to all 480 pupils at Isambard. “It gives students an opportunity to dream and think about what they would like to do with their lives as well as building a series of skills to realise their dreams.”
School aims for arts college status
Now well into its second year and with experience of delivering the arts curriculum using professional artists, media experts and musicians, Isambard is making a bid to become a specialist arts college. The school is home to the Flux project which comes to an end next July after three years funding. The £100,000 capital grant and £129 per pupil annually over four years would continue arts and media development work, currently undertaken by Flux. The school has to support its bid with £50,000 in local business sponsorship. A decision is expected in the Spring.
Hundreds of people, from toddlers to grandparents, enjoyed the Flux Under the Sea Festival in glorious weather at the end of September. Children dressed as mermaids and pirates, enjoyed games, face painting, street theatre, a magical sea grotto and the festival finale - a procession of a huge sea monster, below.
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1 - 21 November 08.indd 14
16/10/08 14:56:31
swindonlink.com • November 2008
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New purpose for former Salt Way Primary The former primary school in Middleleaze, which closed in 2006, has been transformed into a new specialist centre for children and young people with a disability and their families, writes site manager Mark Green. The building now called the Salt peripatetic teachers, social work- to be completed, but we hope to forWay Centre has been adapted to ers and early years’ workers. Also, mally launch the service in January create new clinical treatment and other specialists, who are not based 2009, when all interested in learning office accommodation for therapy, at the centre, will use the facilities more about the services provided will be invited to meet the profesmedical and other specialist staff that it provides. Although some of our work sionals now at the centre. based in one location, as opposed to Although the new Salt Way is will be carried out from the Salt being scattered across the town. This new service provides a ‘One Way Centre a lot of the services nearly complete, the building and Stop Shop’ that is easily accessible will continue to be delivered in its grounds have been used by to children and young people and children’s centres, schools, health the children’s centre run by the their families, where their needs centres and in family homes across Children’s Society for over a year (see below). can be sensitively and holistically the borough. Koalas Opportunity Group for Parents and carers of children assessed by a range of relevant professionals to deliver services in and young people with a disability children with additional needs and have told us that they want clear the Swindon Portage Service have a co-ordinated and timely way. The specialists based in the centre information about the services we also been here as long, providing include occupational therapists, provide and how they can access services for 0 to 5 year olds and physiotherapists, speech and lan- them. We see this as a unique op- their families. To learn more about the Salt Way guage therapists, specialist learn- portunity to work with them in ing disability community nurses, developing a service that responds Centre, call Mark Green, Integrated Service Manager on (01793) 464061, a consultant child psychiatrist, to their needs. There are still some adaptations mpgreen@swindon.gov.uk. clinical psychologists, specialist
Gardening know-how needed at Salt Way
Intel volunteers have put in the spade work to prepare planting beds at Salt Way; now the Children’s Centre is seeking gardeners to help germinate interest among parents. Centre manager Kay Kane project underway. “This might suit Five members of the Corporate Services Team from Intel, helped praised the volunteers’ efforts and someone without a garden who by children’s centre staff, spent said the work couldn’t have been could help develop our patch,” said a day building three large raised done without their expertise. “At Kay. “We’d be grateful to hear from beds where parents and children present we don’t have a clue about anyone who could spare some time what to plant, but we’re looking to to get things going.” can grow produce. Gardeners should call 465364 Team leader Shirley Hanson, the parents or members of the comwith offers of help. said, “Intel staff around the world munity to adopt the beds.” Youngsters have already planted are committed to working in their communities and it’s great to be winter vegetables but more expertise is needed to get the gardening able to help local projects.”
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The Blackthorn School of Photography Evening, day and weekend courses in our specialist teaching centre near Cricklade
Shirley Hanson, with her grandchildren and the workers from Intel Corporate Services and Dalkia facilities management, and Kay Kane, centre
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Centre celebrates first year in use
Youngsters helped decorate a cake for Salt Way Children’s Centre’s first birthday on 20 October and took part in traditional party and fete games. Looking back over the first year, centre manager Kay Kane said it had been a very enjoyable whirlwind of activity. “It’s great to see the centre being used by groups and see the start of our one-to-one family support which is just as important. One parent told me that coming here feels like being at home and that has stuck with me; it’s how we want people to feel about the centre. “Family support is also available at home with outreach workers visiting families to offer help and advice.” Kay is awaiting results of a survey to find out what else families would like to see at the centre. “We are here to work with all the other agencies to support children and families. This is their children’s centre and we will deliver what they want.”
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16/10/08 14:57:16
16 swindonlink.com • November 2008
Save money with The Link
New school on the ridge on course for September 09 opening
The delays caused by the search for endangered great crested newts last winter and spring is now receding into memory and builders are rushing to ensure a new building to replace Shaw Ridge Primary Swindon Link has become an affiliate School is ready in less than a year’s time. with www.localkids.co.uk which lists “We’re all very excited by the The low building on the edge of activities and services for families progress,” said headteacher Sally Shaw Ridge, adjacent to the existand offers discounts to make life more Cowell, below. “The community ing school, is being built in a circle. affordable. facilities and the hall at the entrance Some think it’s a doughnut, others The pages are accessible to all but to the building have a roof and the think it resembles the recently membership allows people to take contractors brought in extra brick- launched large hadron collider. advantage of discounts offered by local layers to take advantage of good Designed by architects Eric Cole and national businesses. weather in the Autumn. and Partners and built by Swindon Quote 9741ae9e when you join and “Everybody was so keen to see Commercial Services, the school The Link will donate £1 to Swindon the builders start work and we’re will be faced in Cotswold stone based children’s groups. getting on well together. We used blockwork, with marine green the new build as a theme for our window frames, green fascias and artweek in October.” cream coloured soffits.
BALLET - TAP - MODERN - JAZZ MUSICAL THEATRE & RAD MAJORS STREET, HIP HOP & ADULT TAP
Classes from two and half years upwards Lessons held at Haydonleigh School, Abbey Meads Community School, Blunsdon Village and also Stratton Community Centre Official Dance Centre of the ISTD offering FDI & CDE Units Bring this advert with you and receive the first two lessons free
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1 - 21 November 08.indd 16
16/10/08 14:57:48
swindonlink.com • November 2008
Be the star that you are at Drama Babes Voted No.1 in ‘The Times’ Top 5 for Kids (Published in The Independent & The Guardian)
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Independent local theatre practitioner Classes in North & West Swindon and Cricklade “This is the best thing I have brought any of my children to in the last ten years”
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FR E LE E T SS RI ON AL
Author wows Westlea youngsters
Much read children’s author Ian Whybrow was the highlight of a book week for children at Westlea Primary School when he regaled them with stories about his comic creations. He said his inspiration had TV, but told the children how he parents to follow his three Cs. “If come from Sue Townsend’s books had to explain the finer points of you read to your children, you have about Adrian Mole, but decided his English humour to American conversations, you have contact and from that you give them confidence he didn’t have the imagination of producers. Surprisingly he told the children to try new things. Eighty per cent of JK Rowling. Famed for Harry and the Dinosaurs to crib from others in their writing. parents do not spend quality time and his tales about Sniff the dog, Ian “When you’re young you have with their children. Please sit down had children squeeling with delight limited experience, so you must and read together.” Literacy coordinator Julie Neal as he described with actions and read a lot and steal ideas from other facial expressions how his charac- people. Then your own ideas will said, “it was amazing to see each ters reveal themselves on the page start developing and your writing class hanging onto Ian’s every through wry observations of life, will go off in different directions.” word for over 45 minutes at a time. Harry and the Dinosaurs has been They’ll be talking about his visit particularly the behaviour of his chosen for distribution by the for weeks and their writing will own children and family dog. He explained that he had not charity Book Time to every child be inspired.” written Harry and the Dinosaurs for in Britain and Ian made a plea to
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Great fun with Ian Whybrow
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Learn more about Oakhurst school at public presentation
Swindon Council will announce this month whether it faces any competition in its bid to run the new Oakhurst school. Government legislation gives daughter Millie is due to go to different organisations the chance school in 2010 and said that parents to manage new schools. At a public in the area want the school to be seminar organised by the Office council run. She said, “people want for Public Management in July a a school for Oakhurst. There will be religious group expressed interest enough local children to fill it.” Whoever runs the school Swinin opening a school for the local community and children of faith. don Council has secured £7 million All applications must be received funding to build a two form entry by 10 November and a summary school on two levels adjacent to of bids will be published by the Pioneer Road, with a nursery and council within three weeks. This all weather sports pitch. This should will be followed by a six week be complete for September 2010, but period when people can comment temporary buildings are proposed so that the school can open in Sepon the proposals. A public meeting will be held by tember 2009. The public meeting should take OPM so that people can meet the proposers, hear more about their place in early December. To request a meeting date alert, mail: melanie@ ideas and ask questions. Unaware of the implications spiralsites.com of the competition rules, all but one parent from Oakhurst missed the July meeting. They were later surprised to learn that places for local children may not be guaranteed. Melanie Eastwood, right, attended as her
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SWIN W BA IN ES C DO T K N
cirencester college
open evening
Wednesday 5 November 5 - 8.30 pm for more information contact student services
a beacon college
01285 640994 www.cirencester.ac.uk
16/10/08 14:59:27
18 swindonlink.com • November 2008
Nursery applies to build in Priory Vale
Abingdon Kindergarten Group plans to build a new nursery for up to 110 children at Redhouse village centre. A planning application has been having first aid training, a nurse is submitted for a two storey building, attached to each of the nurseries in incorporating staff accommodation, the group. on Isambard Way. The site adjacent Director, Claire French, said that to the education campus was ear- in researching North Swindon, she marked for a nursery in the original had not found many other preplans for the village centre and has school facilities offering teaching outline planning permission. in their curriculum. “There is a Abingdon Kindergarten Group demand from families in Swindon has three nurseries in Oxfordshire. for another nursery. We really liked Originally founded as a family the location in Redhouse and it will business, the group is now owned be nice for families to be able to walk by Gateway Educational Services, to the nursery.” a major education provider in Sri The number of children at the Lanka and across Asia. nursery will be decided after the The kindergartens were set up planning approval but is likely to by Rosemary Buchan who was be between 70 and 110. qualified as a midwife, nurse and The planning decision is expected teacher. She placed great emphasis by early November and building on providing educational opportu- work could start early in the new nities and each nursery has a quali- year. fied teacher. In addition to all staff www.abingdonkindergarten.com
Play area revamp at Link Centre
New play equipment and a fresh lick of paint have brightened up play times for pre-schoolers at Link & Learn Playgroup.
Coun Mick Bray with youngsters learning outdoors at Link Centre
The group was awarded a grassroots grant of £1,000 by Swindon Council to revamp the covered area above West Swindon Library that they use for outdoor play after Ofsted inspectors recommended that open air play opportunties be improved. Treasurer, Kirsteen Mosley, said, “The Wendy house has been the biggest hit with both boys and girls. They love the windows, the door bell and the kitchen; it’s great for role play and it’s really sparked their imagination.” Councillor for Freshbrook and Grange Park, Mick Bray, went along
to see the finished work. “It’s lovely to see so many happy children enjoying the equipment,” he said. There was more good news when volunteers from Intel offered to help paint a jungle mural on the windows and play patterns on the floor tiles. The community run playgroup is so popular that there are already names on the waiting list for 2010. To accommodate growing numbers, afternoon sessions will start again in January, a term earlier than usual. For information or to register, call Ann Hicks on 465464.
Time and space for toddlers (& parents) Little Hands in Westlea welcomes children from the age of two years until they join a nursery class, with their parents or carers, at their Monday morning sessions from 10am to 11.30am during term time. There are organised activities like a craft table, free play, refreshments and organised nursery rhyme time. The group meets in the Sunshine Room at Westlea Primary School, Langstone Way. For details call Sandra Young on 877664.
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16/10/08 15:02:49
swindonlink.com • November 2008
Little Foxes Childcare & Education
Taking teddies to lunch for Tommy’s
There were extra guests for a picnic at Headstarts Day Nursery in Westlea when youngsters brought in their teddies to raise money for Tommy’s.
For children and their parents Established 1986 The Common, Brinkworth, Wilts Tel: 01666 510356 Just a 15 minute drive from West Swindon & Priory Vale on B4042
l
l l l l
Koalas benefit at Basepoint
Volunteers from Koalas Special Opportunities Playgroup in Middleleaze were on hand to talk to visitors at a well attended health and wellness day at Basepoint Business Centre in Westlea on 11 October. Basepoint has made Koalas its charity of the year after recommendation from The Link and presented a cheque for £5,000 in July. Manager Beverley Reynolds said, “we’re doing more to boost the Koalas fundraising this year. Come along to our coffee morning to help boost the Basepoint total.” www.koalas.org.uk www.basepoint.co.uk
An independent family run nursery offering quality care and education within a safe, secure, stimulating environment for all babies and children from 0-5 and an out of school club for children aged 5-11 years Open: Monday to Friday, 7.30am-6.30pm, 51 weeks of the year Full, part time and term time places. Government funding for 3-5 year olds High staff to child ratios with qualified and experienced teaching staff and nursery nurses Nutritious 3 course meals, hydro pool, multi sensory room, school hall with gym apparatus, secure gardens, mini bus for trips out and about
Close to M4 junction 16, just a short drive from West Swindon For children 3 months to five years Open all year from 8am to 6pm Extensive outdoor play & garden Grant places available For information call: 01793 851495
www.thedaynursery.com Brinkworth Road, Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 8DS
Headstarts Day Nursery Established 1990
Delta Business Park, Westlea West Swindon. Tel: 877779 & The Children’s Centre at Robert le Kyng Westcott Street, Swindon. Tel: 484934
Right, Koala mums Amanda Piper, Alison Fielden and crystal expert Tania Woodward
Coffee Morning
Wednesday 12 November 10am to 12noon Basepoint, Rivermead Drive, Westlea in aid of Koalas Also on sale, Christmas puddings made specially for Koalas
The Springboard to Confidence for your child Britain’s leading National Active Physical Play programme for children from 6 months to 7 years. Your child will learn agility, balance, climbing, co-ordination appropriate to his or her age. Structured programmes designed to build self confidence and develop essential listening and language skills. Supervised by trained staff in a fun and caring environment.
Tumble Tots now in your area! For information about local centres call
Liz Davies on 0844 800 0219
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Headstarts is a friendly, ‘family’ nursery offering a warm, happy and relaxed environment where every child benefits from individual attention. ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑
Monday – Friday 8am till 6pm all year Sessions for 0 - 5 year olds ~ am, pm, school day, all day Real value for money. From £160 per week full time Funded child-care credits available.** Government Funded Nursery Sessions** Free nursery sessions for 2.5 hours per day worth £44.88 per week Monday - Friday during term time for funded 3 & 4 year olds* For further information or to arrange a visit, call 877779 or 484934
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The charity supports medical research into the causes of miscarriage, still birth and premature birth, as well as providing information to help pregnant women keep their babies healthy. Tiffeny Hallwood, who coordinated a week of teddy themed activities, said, “several of the parents have been affected by these experiences and this was a way of showing support for them.” During a week of activities children enjoyed a bear hunt, games, colouring and baking biscuits.
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Special offer FREE child care worth £50 with this advert* *Conditions apply **Rates may vary
16/10/08 15:04:04
20 swindonlink.com • November 2008
Age Concern Swindon offers new independent finance advice service
With the recent turmoil in the financial markets and the value of pension funds heading south, a free seminar at Steam Museum on Monday 17 November, organised by Age Concern Swindon, cannot come a day too soon. The event marks the launch of Age Concern Swindon’s independent asking for help on important financial decisions such as inheritance tax advice service in conjunction with the Co-operative Independent Financial and investments. The new service has been designed to aid people who Advisers (CIFA) and aims to help over 50s to think about maximising are unsure where to turn to for unbiased advice and for those who have income in retirement, planning for care fees and also what to do about not had access to basic financial products and services. Ann Hurcomb from Age Concern Swindon said, “we encourage people inheritance tax New research from Age Concern’s Age Agenda report reveals that to come along to the free seminar to see how the Independent Advice more than one in six (7.5 million) of the UK population is in urgent need Service can help them. It’s essential for older people in Swindon to make of financial advice and, of these, 600,000 are aged over 65. Even more informed financial decisions if they want to improve their quality of life worrying, over 220,000 (4 per cent) households headed by people aged in retirement and protect the value of their estates.” To book a place, call Age Concern Swindon on 692166. For details of 65 to 84 are without a bank account. Over recent years thousands of people have contacted Age Concern the Independent Advice Service call free on 0845 685 1077.
Modest priced device to stop heating costs going through the roof
It’s going to be chilly even if we have a mild winter, and whenever the boiler is on, you’re burning money. So here’s a simple, low cost device that will pay for itself in just a few months. for the room. It can be easily moved and stored It makes common sense to close windows and whenever the fire is lit. seal up draughty doors in the winter months but No DIY skills are needed to install the heatsaver, many homes still have a huge hole in the wall: which is suitable for most fireplaces, apart from the chimney. stoves or those with back boilers. For non standard In a modern house, up to 40m3 of warm air sizes, a screen can be custom made. escapes up the chimney every hour, which means Tests in 2005 showed that an average household an average sized living room loses all its warm air could save £144 a year by installing the device. in less than an hour. This is likely to be significantly higher after the As well as heat loss, the chimney can cause last round of fuel price increases and even greater draughts around the house, in a cycle known savings are likely to be made in older houses. as the stack effect. As hot air leaves, cold air is And of course the less energy you burn, the more drawn into a room, through gaps in floorboards you’re doing to reduce your carbon footprint. and windows. The Fireplace Heatsaver costs £79.95 including The Fireplace Heatsaver has been designed to VAT and delivery. Order with a credit card by seal up the fireplace when not in use. Made from calling 01924 368899 or online at: www.fireplaceclear moulded acrylic, it stops hot air escaping heatsaver.co.uk but allows the fireplace to remain as a focal point
Now with added extras! • NEW - What’s On Section. Enter details of your event for free listings • Stories that don’t appear in The Link magazine • Access to digital editions of The Link • Free community organisation listings - submit your details now • Free listing for all magazine advertisers • Link magazine advertising details • Low cost rates for web site only advertising
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Christmas Orders now being taken Farm Fresh Turkeys, Geese, Cockerels, Chickens, Boneless Turkey Breast, Duck, Pheasant, Venison, High Class Scotch & English Beef, Premium Lamb, Pork, and 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 meat including The Famous ‘Bassett Banger’
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See www.swindonlink.com for a special price
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17/10/08 14:00:09
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HALLOWEEN
Friday 31st October & Saturday 1st November, 6.30pm - 8.45pm
SANTA SPECIALS
Sat 29th & Sun 30th November, Also 6th & 7th, 13 & 14th, 20th & 21st December, 11am - 4pm
Circus big top planned for Bradon’s summer celebration
Next July sees the first ever Big Top Festival, writes Jennifer Purcell, arts manager at Bradon Forest School. schools invited to take This four day event part include Brook will celebrate the wide Field, Lydiard Millicent range of local arts and Tregoze. and culture at our There will be a huge finger tips, showcasBig Top tent erected ing new and entertainon the school grounds ing productions from for performances but Bradon Forest School some shows will take students, including place in the school's drama, dance and professional theatre music, and involving for a more intimate people from Purton atmosphere. and West Swindon. The Big Top Festival Par tner primar y schools, local col- Getting ready for Bradon’s festival, Abby Carter & Harley Viveash takes place from 9 July to 12 July. leges and specialist arts schools, and many more local the whole weekend culminating in Keep an eye on our plans at: cultural organisations will be putting a 'concert at the pavilion' complete www.bigtopfestival.co.uk on performances for this new event with summer barbecue. In these early stages we can and there will also be at least one show from a nationally acclaimed already confirm contributions from Purton Amateur Dramatics Society professional theatre company. We’re also planning a range of (PADS), Swindon Young Actors, public workshops, art exhibitions by Swindon Dance, Commonweal students and local artists, storytell- School, the Stevie Gilmore Sound ers and walkabout entertainers, with and Circo Ridiculoso. Local primary
Blunsdon Station Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Trains: 11am-4pm Cafe, shop and free parking
www.swindon-cricklade-railway.org Licenced to carry out wedding and naming ceremonies
MEN’S SHOES an outstanding selection • Church’s • Grenson • Loakes • Padders • Barker • Clarks • Rieker • Rohde • Anatomic Gel Also an extensive range of slippers now in stock
BLAYLOCKS Bath Road Corner Old Town, Swindon Tel: 534271
Interested in taking part?
Are you involved in a circus group or music band that might want to perform in a Big Top? Is your art group looking for an exhibition space? Can you offer an interesting workshop for the public? If so, contact Jennifer Purcell on 773981 or mail: purcellj@bradonforest.wilts.sch.uk
In tune with the rock ‘n roll generation
Golden Oldies, an organisation with a mission to get the older generation singing and socialising, has breathed new life into senior sing-a-longs. Grenville Jones, Smashing the imleft, famous for age of OAP’s warleading the Bath bling songs of the Male Voice choir First World War, the into the finals of Goldies enthusiastiLast Choir Standcally sing along to the ing, was inspired to songs of their youth, set up the Golden including hits such Oldies charity after as High Ho Silver watching a TV proLining, Here Comes gramme about the Zimmers. the Sun and Summer Holiday. Goldies plan to branch out with From November residents in six group dwellings will enjoy fort- social events, excursions and pubnightly song sessions. Gill Rus- lic performances. In five years, san, 64, from Freshbrook’s Elsie Grenville is planning a Big Sing at Hazell Court is looking forward to the Albert Hall. More sing-a-long leaders, paid taking part. “We love singing to all the classic hits, like Frank Sinatra £30 a session, are needed. Details from: www. goldensongs. Music is a great way to lift oldies.org.uk people’s spirits; we can’t wait.”
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Swindon Wide
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Book now for the Wyvern/Link 3-D genie panto extravaganza
The Link has teamed up with the Wyvern Theatre to fill the first night of this year’s amazing panto Aladdin. There are lots of extras if you book your tickets for the first show on Friday 5 December, 7pm, including:
More to see as Framework expands in twentieth year
Now in new premises at BSS House in Cheney Manor, Framework Art and Craft can host workshops, craft demonstrations and exhibitions.
• £1 off each ticket; • a chance to meet Abanazar (Shaun Williamson) after the show; • Wyvern goody bags; • a collection to help Swindon CALM & Lights for Learning. This is the Wyvern’s biggest, most innovative pantomime ever with a magical genie emerging from the lamp and dancing around the auditorium To be one of the first 600 in the town to enjoy this year’s Aladdin, call the Wyvern box office on 524481 for tickets quoting Swindon Link.
Swindon’s widest choice of discounted 20ivterhsary ann
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Lots of extra bargains
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Unit 35 BSS House Cheney Manor, Swindon
Tel/Fax 01793 513069
Email: mail@facswindon.co.uk www.facswindon.co.uk
Call Barry on 07798 - 682198 Turn that unwanted Gold into Cash
The family run business, set up 20 years ago to make materials affordable to as many people as possible, is still going strong. Paints, brushes and canvas, picture framing supplies and materials for crafts including mosaics, rugs and card making are all offered at discounted prices. Alan, Eileen and Karen Miller, above, are always on hand to give advice and provide a friendly service to make sure that people get the most out of their materials. At a time when large and small craft shops across the country are
being forced to close, FAC sees customers come from miles away, attracted by their wide range of materials. People make regular trips from all over the south to stock up on supplies, making a day of it by taking in other attractions such as the Designer Outlet. In October FAC held its first exhibition of work by local artists Karen Miller and Vikki LoeberHughes and more are planned. Art demonstrations and workshops in the new year will be published at www.facswindon.co.uk See the advert on the left.
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Fundraising
Swindon Wide What’s On in November
Throughout November & until 22 December, Monday to Saturday, 9.15am to 5pm Cards for Good Causes Multi-Charity Christmas Card Shop Tourist Information Centre Regents Street Saturday 8 November 12noon - 5pm Health, Beauty & Well-being Day Taster sessions and advice Reiki, Thai massage, reflexology, facial massage, make-overs, manicures & pedicures eyebrow threading, aromatherapy The Drove People’s Campus, Southampton Street Entry £2. Raffle and refreshments in aid of Christmas Care Sunday 9 November, 2pm - 6pm Christmas Fair Free children’s activities, over 30 stalls including Country Farmers Market, Phoenix Trading, Gifts n’ Things, Rose’s Chili Infusions, Riverford Organics, Mini IQ Cricklade Leisure Centre Adults £1 including a tea or coffee, children free Saturday 15 November 10am - 4.30pm Christmas Craft Show Pyrography, jewellery, photography, hand made decorations and the opportunity to make cards Purton Village Hall, Station Road Purton and Lydiard Charity Fund Saturday 22 November 10am - 2pm Rainbow Club Fundraiser in aid of bereaved school age children Treatment taster sessions and demonstrations at Thyme Treatment Rooms, 709 Delta Office Park. Tel: 433338 Sunday 30 November 11am - 4pm Christmas Craft Fair Commonweal School, Old Town
Talks & activities
Wednesday 5th, 10am Castle Combe Racing Circuit. Rodney Gooch speaks at a meeting of Thamesdown Probus Club. All welcome. For more details call 765215. Blunsdon House Hotel Saturday 8th, 8pm Tony Benn. An evening of frank responses and entertaining political anecdotes with the veteran Labour politician. £16. Wyvern Wednesday 19th, 10am Cripps Family at Filkins. Richard Martin speaks at Thamesdown Probus Club. All welcome. For more details call 765215. Blunsdon House Hotel
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Fireworks & Bonfires
Wednesday 5 November Westlea Primary School Bonfire and Fireworks Evening Gates: 5.15pm; barbecue: 5.15pm bonfire: 6pm; fireworks: 6.30pm. Tickets available on the gate or in advance from the school: Adults £3.50, children £2.50, family ticket 2 adults & 2 children £10 (only available in advance) Thursday 6 November, Catherine Wayte School Elstree Way, Abbey Meads Family Firework Display Gates: 6pm; display: 7pm Tickets available from the school office, Connells Estate Agency at North Swindon Centre and Fleur at Abbey Meads Village Centre £3, family ticket (two adults, two children) £10. No parking on school grounds Friday 7 November Oliver Tomkins School, Toothill Fireworks Evening Gates: 6pm; display 7pm Adults £4, children £2, family ticket (2 adults 2 children or 1 adult 3 children) £10 Refreshments available at all events. Please do not take fireworks or sparklers with you.
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SWINDON LIONS CLUB
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR AND FAIR SATURDAY 1st NOVEMBER 2008 Polo Ground, Marlborough Road, Swindon Gates open and Funfair from 5.30pm Entertainment and GWR FM from 6.00pm Firework display 7.15pm promptly
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Admission at the gates: £5.00 for adults £3.00 for children/OAPs FREE park and ride at Nationwide Car Park, Pipers Way. Follow road signs and allow a minimum of 30 minutes
Film
Wednesday 5th, 7.45pm My Brother is an Only Child (15). A bittersweet tragicomedy about the love-hate relationship of two brothers during the political turmoil in Italy in 1960s and 70s. SFS. Arts Centre Wednesday 19th, 7.45pm The Orphanage (15). Genuinely scary ghost/horror drama from Spain. Laura returns to the place where she grew up and finds more than one skeleton in the cupboard. SFS. Arts Centre Swindon Film Society (SFS) films are for members only. It is possible to join at any film showing
Comedy
Friday 7th, 8pm Tim Minchin - Ready For This? Tim Minchin heads out with a sparkly new show featuring a hefty dollop of fresh material and a spoonful of the classics. £14. Arts Centre Friday 7th, 8pm Jongleurs Comedy Club. Swindon’s premier comedy club. Suitable for over 18s only. £10. Wyvern Thursday 13th, 8pm Michael McIntyre. The comedian of the moment. £16. Wyvern Tuesday 18th, 8pm Simon Day - What a Fool Believes. Fast Show comedian touring with his first solo stand up show. £14. Arts Centre
Old Bell Pottery & Crafts High Street, Lechlade • Tel: 01367 252608 E-mail: enquiries@oldbellpottery.com www. oldbellpottery.com
SPECIALISTS IN DOLLS HOUSE MINIATURES Traditional games and toys. Local craft items
FOR GREAT GIFT IDEAS Knitting & Haberdashery
Sewing needs: X-stitch ~ Tapestry ~ Rowan ~ Jaeger ~ Patons ~ Yarns and Patterns Mail order service available.
In the stable and garden
A great selection of local pottery. China seconds from Stoke-on-Trent. Pots, planters & ornaments from around the world Mon to Sat 10am to 5pm • Sun 11am to 5pm
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Music
Swindon Wide What’s
Saturday 1st, 7.30pm & Sunday 2nd, 6pm Oliver and More. An annual extravaganza of popular musicals featuring the Kentwood Men, special guest Rachel Sparrow from the Kentwood Show Choir as well as those Kentwood Kids of the Kentwood Junior and Youth Choirs. £9. Arts Centre Monday 3rd, 7.30pm That’ll Be The Day. Back by popular demand with a unique mixture of 50s to 80s rock ‘n’ roll mixed with great comedy. £19.50. Wyvern Tuesday 4th, 7.30pm The Drifters. A concert to celebrate the group’s 55th anniversary and the release of the first official new album in 30 years. £15. Wyvern Thursday 6th, 7.30pm Two Kinds of Magic. The music of Queen and ELO in a new show by Magic. £16. Wyvern Thursday 6th, 8pm Lau. The Best Group Winner, BBC Folk Awards 2008 promises to deliver a ferociously impressive live show. £14. Arts Centre Saturday 8th, 8pm Blues Caravan. The 2008 line-up includes local singer-guitarist Dani Wilde, Virginian native Deborah Coleman and Canadian guitarist Sue Foley. £12. Arts Centre Friday 14th, 7.30pm Central Band of the RAF. Musical history brought to life. All proceeds will go to the RAF Association providing welfare and support to the entire RAF family. £14. Wyvern Saturday 15th, 8pm Tango Tango. A show that transports its audience into the world of Buenos Aires and the most intimate and passionate of dances, the Tango, presented by award winning musician and author Justin Pearson. £16.50. Wyvern Sunday 16th, 7.30pm Richard Digance. Richard is one of Britain’s most unique entertainers performing his songs, rhymes and stories like nobody else. £17. Wyvern Monday 17th, 7.30pm Beyond the Barricade at Christmas featuring music from all the great shows and movies of the festive season. £19.50. Wyvern Sunday 23rd, 7.30pm Rockin’ On Heaven’s Door. Now in its 10th year the show has received acclaim throughout the UK and Europe with spookily convincing portrayals of musical giants such as Presley, Orbison, Holly and Cochran. £18.50. Wyvern Sunday 30th, 5pm & 8pm Kentwood’s Christmas Cracker. Seasonal music, carols and entertainment with the Kentwood Choir and special guests, the Aldbourne Band. £11. Wyvern
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Sunday 30th, 7pm Raag and Taal. Two exceptional artists together bring an evening of exuberating Indian classical music. On santoor will be Kiranpal Singh Deoora and on tabla Rohan Kapadia. £10. Arts Centre
Exhibitions
To December, 10am – 5pm The Journey from Steam to Diesel. Follow the story of four characters whose lives were affected as steam locomotives were replaced by diesel on Britain’s railways. Normal admission prices. STEAM To February
Echoes. James Castle explores connections between painting and sculpture, through his own works and a selection from the Swindon Collection of Modern British Art. Free. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery To Saturday 1st, 10am - 4pm Highworth Artists’ Society Exhibition. Watercolours, pastels, oils and acrylics will be on display and for sale. Highworth Council Community Room To Saturday 15th Diwali Celebration by Sangita Kapadia, Swindon based artist, poet, linguist, dancer and tutor. The biggest Hindu festival spreads joy, enthusiasm and unity through light, colour and food across the world. This exhibition leads up to this year’s celebration. Free. Arts Centre To Saturday 29th Emily Drake. By using doodles and found imagery to trigger stories, Emily paints moments from the past ... as she remembers them. Wyvern From Wednesday 5th to Thursday 27th Exhibition of work by the U3A Painting Together and Pastels groups. Free. West Swindon Library From Tuesday 18th Frank Quinton Retrospective. Frank’s recent paintings make a return to a freer, looser dramatic line reflecting a style used in early works. Free. Arts Centre
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On in November
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Children & Family
Thursday 20th to Saturday 22nd, 7.30pm & Saturday mat, 2.30pm Friday 31st Oct, 8.30pm - 10.30pm Where Dreams ComeTrue. Tanwood Halloween on Ice. DJ, spooky fun and School for Performing Arts’ 64th angames. Link Centre Ice Rink nual spectacular production of music, Friday 31st October & Saturday 1st song and dance featuring award winNovember, 6.30pm to 8.45pm ning performers aged 2 to 80. From Halloween on Swindon & Cricklade £9. Wyvern Railway. See advert on page 21 Friday 21st to Saturday 29th, variSaturday 8th, 1pm ous times The Selfish Giant produced by Image Babes in the Wood presented by Theatre. Oscar Wilde’s story of The Stage Struck. A traditional pantomime Selfish Giant is one the most beauti- for all the family. See page 29. £10. ful and moving tales, connecting to For tickets and times call 840757. people of all Arts Centre cultures. An From Saturday 29th, Tuesday to opportunity Sunday, 11am - 4pm fo r s o m e Victorian Christmas at Lydiard children to House. See the State Rooms decked take part as out for a Victorian family Christmas actors and with traditional trimmings on real for the audiChristmas trees, beautiful floral ence to join decorations and a festive feast in in as chorus the dining room. Discover how the singers. £7. Victorians celebrated and how their Arts Centraditions influence the way we now tre celebrate Christmas. Also children’s Saturday 8th, 2pm quiz trail. Normal admission charges. Circus Hilarious Aquaphobia with Lydiard House special guest stars and top interna- Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th, tional circus artistes. Adults, £11, con- 11am - 4pm cessions £10, family £38. Wyvern Santa Specials. Swindon & Cricklade Saturday 8th to Sunday 23rd, Tues- Railway. See the advert on page 21 day to Sunday, 11am - 4pm Sunday 30th, 10am - 4pm Costumes! See a selection of cos- Christmas Crafts. Learn how to make tumes from the Lydiard House col- willow wreaths, cards, decorations and lection on public display for the first small gifts. For adults and children over time, including evening gowns, smart 5. Adult £30, child £15, Includes all suits, top hats and a magnificent peer’s materials and lunch. Book in advance robe. Normal admission charges. on 771080. Lower Shaw Farm Lydiard House Saturdays 8th & 22nd Meet the Railway Workers. Former engine drivers, firemen and railwork- Tuesday 4th, 7.30pm ers bring the days of steam to life. Humble Boy by Charlotte Jones produced by London Classic Theatre. Normal admission charges. Steam Past and present collide with love Sunday 16th, 3pm American Superslam Wrestling. and uncertainty in the original and The charismatic kings of the canvas captivating, award winning comedy. are coming to town for American £10. Arts Centre Superslam team action as top stars Wednesday 12th to Saturday 15th, from leading Stateside federations 7.30pm challenge the very best of British tal- Cause Celebre by Terence Rattigan presented by The Western Players. ent. £12, family £35. Wyvern When Alma Rattenbury, attractive wife of an elderly man, employs a handsome but uncouth youth there are all Arts Centre Devizes Road. Tel: 614837 sorts of tragic consequences. £6. For tickets call 433297. Arts Centre Link Centre Westlea. Tel: 445566 Lower Shaw Farm Old Shaw Lane. Saturday 15th, 7.30pm Tel: 771080 Murder Mystery Evening. Enjoy a Lydiard House Lydiard Tregoze. three course meal in the new Circle Tel: 770401 Restaurant as you solve the mystery STEAM Museum of the Great unfolding before you. Watch the Western Railway. Kemble Drive. scenes, interrogate the suspects Tel: 466646 and search for hidden clues. £34. Swindon & Cricklade Railway Wyvern Tadpole Lane. Tel: 771615 Tuesday 25th to Saturday 29th, Swindon Information Centre various times Regent Street. Tel: 530328 Lord Of The Flies. One of the most Swindon Museum & Art Gallery well-known novels of modern times Bath Road. Tel: 466556 is vividly brought to life in this acWyvern Theatre Tel: 524481 claimed award winning production. Confirm date, time and price Suit ages 9+. £18, schools £12 per with the venue ticket. Wyvern
BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. See menu on websites
Theatre
Venues
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www.swindonrendezvous.co.uk
www.lerendezvous.co.uk
Ladies at Le Rendezvous
Enjoy at great night out for a fixed price of £12.50, every Tuesday until 25 November
16/10/08 15:20:55
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Reduce the cost of software
Dave Fletcher of SPFOSS - Sparcells and Peatmoor FOSS (Free and Open Source Software) says there’s a way to cut computer costs. Most people with computers will have indirectly used FOSS, without realising it. Web sites such as Google and Amazon have been running free, open source software on their servers for years. You may even have FOSS in your own home, in the controller chips in some of the external hard drives now offered for backing up computers. There has also been an upsurge in the number of computers available, mainly small laptops, with FOSS ready installed, instead of the usual Windows software. Virtually every need is catered for by FOSS but it’s understandable that you might be nervous about installing it - which is where SPFOSS comes in. Our group meets to provide information, give advice and practical assistance and meets on the third Monday of most months at the Woodlands Edge, Peatmoor Centre. For details of meetings, mail: dave@spfoss.org.uk or simon@ spfoss.org.uk
Swindon Wide
Red hot curry night for Crohn’s charity
Enjoying a curry at the Bombay Lounge on 10 November will benefit a charity which supports people suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. Events coordinator Mandy MarInflammatory bowel disease or The evening has been organised by the National Association of IBD affects about 240,000 people tin said it was good to meet people Crohn’s & Colitis as part of their across the UK, including singer who understood how you are feelRed Hot Day, which aims to raise Anastacia, Olympic medallist Sir ing. “We’re having a talk about IBD funds and improve awareness of Steve Redgrave and Fame Acad- and nutrition in October but I hope the conditions. Both cause inflam- emy voice coach Carrie Grant. we aren’t told to avoid curry.” All profits from meals and takemation of the intestines resulting Despite years of research, there is in severe pain, bleeding, diarrhoea still no cure although drugs can be aways on Monday 10 November will be donated to NACC. used to control symptoms. and weight loss. To register for a fixed priced bufThe North Wilts group offers support, information and a news- fet call Mandy Martin on 827672. Cashback evenings letter for members and a new To order from the menu book a for 09 now booking committee is trying to raise the table by calling 887799. www.nacc.org.uk The charity nights at the Bombay group’s profile and encourage www.groups.nacc.org.uk/NorthLounge at Peatmoor centre and their 270 members to attend more Wiltshire Planet Bollywood in Gorse Hill social events. have been a huge success this Charity nights in November year, raising thousand of pounds since the first one last February. At Bombay Lounge (Tel: 887799) They have helped a wide range 3rd The Samaritans, Swindon branch of local and national groups and 11th St Mary’s Church, Lydiard Park, for bookings are now being taken for restoration of the historic building where next year - Monday and Tuesday the Golden Cavalier, left, can be found at Bombay Lounge, Tuesday and 12th Lydiard Millicent Pre-School Thursday at Planet Bollywood. If 17th Swindon MS Therapy Centre you can organise 20 people or Moving Soon Appeal more to enjoy a night out, this is 24th Freshbrook Playgroup, in aid of the the chance to raise some tasty specialist liver centre at King’s money. College Hospital, London See www.swindonlink.com for availability and mail The Link with At Planet Bollywood (Tel: 435577) the date you want to book: pub- 4th Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children lisher@swindonlink.com 11th Swindon Advocacy Movement 20th Swindon Carers 27th Blunsdon Juniors Football Club The dates listed above are not exclusive to the group or charity. The evenings are open to anybody, but a proportion of your payment will be donated to the good cause. Call the restaurants to book a table.
Fundraiser plans trip to Iceland Naomi House Children’s Hospice had £5.7 million saved with an Icelandic bank, until it went belly-up in mid-October. Hopefully the charity will have its money returned in the British government’s vast loan to Iceland, but it could mean volunteers having to work even harder to raise money for Naomi House. Nicki Styles, from Rodbourne, will be helping the Icelandic economy Nicki with her son Brandon get back on its feet in August 2009 who receives treatment at when she takes part in a nine day Great Ormond Street Hospital fundraising trek around the volcanic Wildcats KidsZone fundraiser at the landscape. On Saturday 1 November the game against Peterborough. Adult hospice will benefit from a Swindon tickets cost £5 (normally £11) and children £2 (usually £5.50). The kids’ ticket income will be donated Lions wanted to Naomi House. To book a ticket Swindon Lions Club meets by 30 October - mail: kidszone@ twice a month at the DeVere swindonwildcats.com Hotel, West Swindon. At a charity curry night at the BomMen and women are welcome bay Lounge, Nicki raised £100. to join. To find out more about On 4 November she is organising activities, call membership a charity night at Planet Bollywood secretary Maurice Watson in aid of Great Ormond Street on 881308 or mail: mauriceHospital. watson@lycos.co.uk www.naomihouse.org.uk
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Swindon Wide
Theatre and food go together
The Wyvern Theatre has launched a new restaurant to cater for people who enjoy fine dining and also like to combine a meal with a show.
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Space for Tanwood to stretch out
Tanwood School for the Performing Arts, the town’s oldest school of dance, is setting up home in a spacious new studio on the Isis Trading Estate. During the day, the premises will Tanner is delighted to be sharing be used by Theatre of Motion for the new facilities. “It’s a wonderfoundation level dance courses, ful home for us; much bigger than with Tanwood classes running in we’re used to. The studio gives our pupils the space and opportunity the evenings and at weekends. The new site has two studios, to explore so much more in the each as big as the Wyvern The- performing arts.” During half term, rehearsals atre’s stage and wings. There is another smaller room which is still began in earnest for the school’s bigger than their former town cen- next production with a Disney tre base. The extra space means theme. Where Dreams Come True that more places are available in will be at the Wyvern on 20 to 22 November. each class. www.tanwood.co.uk Tanwood principal Pollyann
Toasting the launch of the circle, from left, Michael Ockwell, managing director of HQ Theatres, mayoress Debbie Wakefield, Polly-Ann Tanner, Mayor Steve Wakefield, Molly Tanner, Wvyern manager Andy Hill, Sheila Harrod of Kentwood Show Choir, Paul Stuart, hospitality manager
The Circle Restaurant has a modern, sophisticated style, a crisp approach to food and quality service. It offers a variety of menus including three-course preshow meals, theatre tour lunches, murder mystery dinners, buffets, children’s parties, themed nights, small weddings, conference facilities and catering for private functions. Coming up in the next couple of months are pre-show dining including Spirit of the Dance, An
Evening with Tony Benn and Aladdin, the theatre’s biggest ever pantomime. Murder mystery evenings will be a key attraction to the restaurant where you can enjoy a sumptuous meal combined with an unfolding drama. In December the Circle plays host to a series of party nights and comedy curries For details call the ticket office on 524481 or see the programme at: www.wyverntheatre.org.uk/circlerestaurant
Elton John Tribute Friday 21st November 2008
In a rollercoaster ride through three decades of Elton classics, John Ellis superbly recreates the style, feel and incredible flamboyant energy of Sir Elton himself. Dance to your favourite tribute artist and disco. Tickets are £35.00 per person and include a set 4 course candle lit dinner Doors Open at 8.00pm. (Not suitable for children) Why not meet your party in Carrie’s Bar for a pre-dinner drink?
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Swindon Wide
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Destination India the bigger picture
After spending the last decade travelling around Europe and Australia, and the last two years as a nanny locally, Catherine Ord from Haydon Wick, has departed again for a five month trip around South India.
Catherine in front of the Swindon Mela elephant
She has started a course in feature journalism and the experience will give her an enormous amount of material to draw upon. Catherine will be writing about her trip at www.swindonlink.com and she will be sending back stories and images when she can.
Farewell to King George V. Veteran railway photographer Roy Nash captured the night time departure of Swindon’s most famous locomotive for a two year visit to the National Railway Museum in mid-October. She is pictured on the original GWR traverser next to the Steam Museum at Churchward, in front of the GWR design office - built in the early 1840s - now occupied by the National Monuments Record. KGV was designed in the building in the early 1920s. When the engine returns new apartments should have been built between the NMR and Steam around the blue steel frame in the picture. See Roy’s images of the arrival of Evening Star and departure of King George V at www.swindonlink. com • Did you work in the GWR? Swindon 105.5fm is creating an oral archive of Swindon and the railways. If you have memories you would like to talk about, call Swindon Community Radio on 611555.
Home Cinema Installations Plasma • LCD • Projectors • AV setup & calibration • Hidden wiring /Feature lighting
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Swindon Wide
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Pick up a bargain at Xmas shopping evenings Call for Tuesday 18 November, 8pm, organised by Friends of Peatmoor caring volunteers School in the school hall.
Christmas Care will provide temporary shelter for homeless and lonely people and those in need over the Christmas period from Wednesday 24 December, 2pm until Sunday 28 December, 11.30am at Queen’s Drive Methodist Church. Meetings for volunteers who can help prepare and run the project, take place on Thursday 13 November, 8pm and Wednesday 19 November, 8pm. Details of how to donate items to the project will be published in the December Link. For details about the project call Patsy Maloney on 642368 or Betty Spence on 485483.
Stage Struck Babes perform at Arts Centre
Stage Struck Theatre Company is building a tradition by putting on a nine day run of Babes in the Wood at the Arts Centre. Since their Cinderella in 2006 became the only panto in town, when the Wyvern was suddenly closed for repairs, Stage Struck has built a strong following. Babes in the Wood can be described as Robin Hood meets Hansel and Gretel, said producer Geoff Marsh, who has rewritten the story of two small children left in the care of their wicked uncle, the Sheriff of Nottingham who wants to steal their inheritance. Can Robin Hood and his merrie men save the day? Oh yes they can. The performances run from Friday 21 to Saturday 29 November, 7pm, with matinees on both Saturdays and also Sunday 23 November. Tickets are £10 with concessions at £8.50. Call the Stage Struck hotline on 840757 to book.
Scrooge turns over new leaf - again
Wroughton Amateur Dramatic Society is busily rehearsing their December panto Bah Humbug, a variation on a Christmas Carol written by Tina and Rob Burbidge, with apologies to Charles Dickens. Performances at the Ellendune Hall, Wroughton take place on 12 and 13 December, 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday 13 December. Tickets are £8 and £6 from 813307 and 702476. Groups of 10 will receive a free ticket. Parking is free and there is disabled access. There will also be a bar. For details of Wadams call Sally Parker on 813847.
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A range of gift stalls, health and beauty items as well as tarot card readings will be complemented by a licensed bar. Tickets are £2.50 on the door. For details call Terri Barnes on 873837. Thursday 20 November, 7.30pm, organised by the Friends of Bridlewood School and the National Childbirth Trust, at Bridlewood School, Chartwell Road, Oakhurst. Twenty stalls selling toys, books, cards, Christmas decorations, jewellery, bags, Traidcraft, food and beauty products.
Craft units on offer
Studley Grange Craft Village has units to let from £43 per week including business rates and service charge. The basic units are 260 square feet in size and include basic electrics with a tenant’s meter. The units provide both a working space and an excellent shop window for crafts people who can show off their work to thousands of visitors attracted by the craft village and the adjacent Butterfly World. For details call 853406 or Tony Miller on 07770 503352.
New in verse
Blue Gates Poets is a new name in Swindon poetry circles in Swindon and keen wordsmiths are invited to join. Blue Gates, named after the gothic gates at the Richard Jefferies museum, will be organising workshops for writers that enable them to progress and develop their work; and will offer an annual programme of readings and other poetry events in and around the town. Society chair Hilda Sheehan said, “if you love to read poetry, listen to it or write it, Blue Gates Poets will add something special to your cultural calendar.” For details mail: bluegatepoets@yahoo.com or call 887014 or 731263. www.thepoetryexchange.com
Join us for the Christmas Illuminations switch-on, Thursday 20th November from 18:30 at Wharf Green. inSwindon brings you an unforgettable night with GWR Wiltshire building up the festive atmosphere for the big switch-on at 19:00. This will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display, setting the night sky ablaze. And there is so much more to see and do during the rest of the festive period. You’ll see Minty the polar bear, street theatre, trains and santas. The sounds of carols and clock tunes will fill the air. The fun fair rides, ice rink and ski slope will provide endless fun. And don’t forget to visit the Christmas market for an unbelievable selection of present ideas. This and so much more will make Christmas in Swindon Town Centre a truly unforgettable adventure.
Christmas in Swindon Climb aboard and explore
Town Centre
Go to www.inSwindon.com for more info
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swindonlink.com • November 2008
Peatmoor Community Facilities Peatmoor Community Primary School
Pepperbox Hill, Peatmoor, Swindon SN5 5DP Reg. Charity 1111747
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Get ready for a spring sprint
The Swindon branch of Breakthrough Breast Cancer is organising the second Mad March Hare on 15 March 2009 and are calling for men and women to sign up and support the event. The runs/walks will cover 10k and 5k courses around Lydiard Park and there will be a family fun run as well. Details and an entry form will be printed in the December Link.
Shirley is a winner
Shirley Garman, chairwoman of the Wiltshire branch, received the Breakthrough Breast Cancer award for the most inspirational fundraiser on 14 October at a star studded event in London. Shirley was unable to attend as she is recovering from major surgery following discovery of a brain tumour in late Sep- Shirley Garman, centre, and Ralph Garman, second left, with organisers and sponsors at the first ever MMH on 30 March this year tember.
Badminton stars on court at the Oasis
Current Availability: Mon, Tues & Thurs 5.30 – 6.30 pm Tues & Weds 6.30 – 7.30pm Fri 7.30 – 8.30 pm Tues, Weds, Thurs & Fri 8.30 – 9.30 pm
Adults from £24 per hour Childrens Groups £18.50 per hour
For details call 01793 887473
Some of the country’s top badminton players are expected to take part in an England v Poland international match at the Oasis on 6 November. There could be a chance to see Olympic star Nathan will mark the 50th anniversary of the Swindon and Robertson who is pursuing his quest to reach England’s District Badminton Association. The event has been sponsored by civil engineering company, BAM Nuttall elite 100 Club. Badminton England spokesman, Adrian Hill, said Ltd, and Swindon Borough Council. Coun Justin Tomlinson, cabinet member for leisure, that Robertson and European Mixed Doubles champions Anthony Clark and Donna Kellogg were all in culture and recreation, said the council was delighted contention for selection, subject to injuries. The British to be hosting such a prestigious badminton internateam will face stiff competition from the Polish squad tional. “The visit of Poland is of particular relevance to which includes their mixed doubles champions and Swindon as a significant number of our residents are of mens singles star, Przemyslaw Wacha, ranked 12th Polish origin. We wish both teams all the best and look forward to a great night of top-class badminton.” in the world. The match starts at 6.45pm. Tickets cost £10, conc. This will be the first time in over 25 years that an international match has been played in Swindon and £6 from the Oasis box office on 445401.
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21-52 November 08.indd 30
Olympic standard training for young gymnasts
Swindon gymnasts are hoping to pick up some medal winning tips when they fly out to train at the prestigious Shichahai Sports School in Beijing. Youngsters from Swindon School of Gymnastics will spend ten days at the best known of China’s state sports academies. Five boys, aged 13 and 14, will train intensively, spending up to nine hours a day in the gym. They will be accompanied by three coaches from SSG, who will be watching attentively so that they can pass on their experience when they get back to Swindon. There will be some time for relaxation during the stay, with Eastern promise for young gymnasts, from Saturday afternoons and Sun- left, Izaac Turner, Beyn Hyner, Oliver Shakles, day free for sight-seeing. The Chris Jones, Peter Newton party have been given access to a hoping to come back with some new minibus and driver and plan to visit moves and they’re looking forward Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, to the cultural side of it.” Over the past year, SSG have been Hidden Gardens and the Olympic collecting money for the £7,000 trip. birds nest stadium. Despite being run entirely by A sponsored bounce brought in volunteers, SSG is tremendously £1,500 over the summer but, as the successful in training gymnasts, gymnasts prepared to leave, there who compete at national level. The was a £2000 shortfall. Fundraising club hopes that the experience in efforts will continue on their return China will provide a boost for all and the club would like to hear members. “The coaches should from any local business interested learn as much as the boys,” said in sponsoring the gymnasts. www.ssg-gymnastics.co.uk coach, Paul Turner. “Everybody is
17/10/08 13:02:32
swindonlink.com • November 2008
Mayor calls for kit to help troops make links with Afghan kids
The Mayor of Swindon Steve Wakefield is making an appeal for football kit to help service personnel build closer community links in Afghanistan. “Many people will be sending out comfort boxes for our troops this Christmas, but I thought the people of Swindon could assist the peace making process through the common interest of football,” said coun Wakefield. “Afghanistan is a very poor country and anything we can do for the people, especially the children, would be welcomed.”
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What will you be dreaming of this Christmas? “Mike Neville, station commander at RAF Lyneham, has told me this would be a very appropriate appeal and a suitable gift for Afghan children as the RAF are doing lots of community work to boost good relations around the airbase at Kandahar.” Can you help? The mayor wants kit of all sizes and colours - children, youth, adults but especially shirts. They must be freshly washed without tears or holes. Boots and balls must be clean of mud. Company donations would be welcome. To help, call the mayor’s secretary on 463599 or mail: toothillandwestleacouncillor@yahoo. co.uk Mayor Steve said, “my aim is to completely fill the mayoral limo with kit and make several trips to Lyneham by 5 December. So come on let’s all fill the mayor’s boot.”
Still time to learn Lomi-Lomi Swindon therapist Raziya Sacranie is running a course from 7 to 9 November with a native Hawaiian spiritual leader teaching the ancient art of Lomi-Lomi massage. This is a chance to develop skills very few others in the UK have. For details call Raziya on 07929 564265. See the other courses she offers at: www.alohatherapies.com
21-52 November 08.indd 31
Don’t let it turn into the Nightmare of Christmas Past … … Nothing to wear, turning down invites, hiding away. Let us help you give yourself the Best Christmas Present … … A New You! We all did it and so can you! Call us today to find out more: TERESA CORNER 01793 701278 07980 074974 LISA CURTIS 01793 320444 07776 042690
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32
swindonlink.com • November 2008
School offers largest astro-pitch in the region
By Sue ◆ Your local family hairdresser ◆ 25% discount for Seniors
Call now for an appointment on 01793 871120 or 07967 363322 HOME VISITS AVAILABLE
With a £261,000 grant from Swindon Council to replace the 20 year old all-weather surface, Greendown School in Grange Park now has one of the best playing facilities in the area. At the community launch on 1 if you slid. This is a lot better, and by housing developers. “This is one of three pitches to be built across October headteacher Clive Zim- it seems much bigger.” Council member for finance Nick the town which will enhance what merman said he was delighted to see the pitch back in use. “When I Martin said the money had come the council can offer local sports joined the school it was in a very from Section 106 funds provided teams.” sorry state, but we now have one Swindon town star Don Rogers with director of sports Chris Dobbs and Greendown of the best facilities around. It will players wearing new shirts sponsored by Tiger Turf and White Horse Contractors enhance our reputation as a community school specialising in sports and provide a tremendous resource for local teams.” Year 10 player Jamie Tuck is impressed. “The old pitch was dangerous because the surface was uneven and you could get a burn
Junior club happy with price plan The Link reported in October that Shaw Junior Football Club was having to drastically cut its use of the Greendown all-weather surface after a 45 per cent rise in rental prices. But at a meeting between the school and the club, a deal was agreed whereby prices will increase over two years. Club secretary Karen Pricter said, “it was a good, positive discussion and we’re very glad to have worked things out with Greendown.”
Football fever at Red Oaks
Youngsters got a kick out of lessons during a week of activities centred on the theme of Swindon Town Our Town.
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21-52 November 08.indd 32
Freestyle art around football. Red Oaks children with The Expansion Team
Throughout the autumn term, pupils at Red Oaks worked on a project about their town and headteacher Terri Menham said the history of the club was essential to any study. “We’ve worked in partnership with them since we opened and they run after-school football here. This week has been about raising awareness of what Swindon Town do in the community.” Football was worked into all subject areas for the week: from adding up numbers on football shirts in maths to creating a huge piece of wall art for the library - a red and white weaving made up of pieces of fabric, old clothes, wood, shin pads, football boots and balls. Children in Year 6 honed their writing skills with newspaper
reports of a match and Year 5 pupils interviewed town star Lilian Nalis. The whole school visited the County Ground and players dropped in to meet pupils and sign autographs. One of the highlights of the week was a demonstration of tricks and skills from freestyle footballers, The Expansion Team, which had youngsters spellbound and may well have triggered the next playground craze. See them in action at www.expansionteam.co.uk New football club at Bridlewood Primary School Saturday morning football for 6 to 14 years. Free taster sessions on Saturday 1 and 8 November, 9.30am to 10.30am.
17/10/08 14:15:11
swindonlink.com • November 2008
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swindonlink.com • November 2008
Swindon - Richmond - Ozarichi, Belarus. Making the lifeline connection The name Fitton in Swindon is nowadays mostly associated with the ownership of Swindon Town Football Club, but in an exclusive for The Link, Ros Fitton describes how her family became involved with the Swindon branch of Chenobyl Children’s Lifeline when they lived in Wiltshire and how she is now setting up a branch in south-west London. I first heard about CCLL when I was channel flicking on TV and watched a drama The girls who came to stay about how a family coped with hosting children affected by the Chernobyl radiation as a result of the nuclear power station disaster in Belarus over twenty years ago. younger siblings all My own children were at the age When the girls left for day while their parwhere they could be interested in the airport we were ents were working in hosting children so I e-mailed Gin all in tears and the the fields. The work McGiffin (chairperson of the Swin- house seemed eerily of CCLL and CCIN don link of Chernobyl Children’s quiet for a long time has had a huge impact Life Line) and received a call almost afterwards. on Ozarichi and Gin We all agreed that immediately, suggesting she came is treated with huge we would do the same round and check us out. respect by the families Luckily she decided we were suit- next year and host and the many officials able and we subsequently hosted more children, but we met because of two girls the next summer. It was before the year was up this. the most rewarding experience we had moved house By chance we went for the whole family, even for my to Richmond where to visit a school in a 20 year old daughter, who would there is no CCLL link. nearby village that freely admit that she is not the most I had just finished a had a very decrepit psychology degree and caring of people. kitchen and which Ira and Nastya were 9 and 11 was not working, so was hoping that Gin years old and although they had the obvious thing to do, would agree to CCIN very little English, it soon became with a lot of cajoling En Famille Fitton, with Ira and Nastya in the front assistance. The headvery easy to make ourselves un- from my children, was introduce them to potential families master whom we christened ‘Big Al’ derstood and vice-versa. We had to set up a link in Richmond. We hosted again this summer in Richmond who I thought might did not stop smiling from the moan incredibly busy and exhausting month as there were lots of group and Ira and her sister Yulia came be interested in helping to set up ment we arrived even though there was very little for him to smile about events organised by Swindon CCLL for a month which was both won- a local link. When the girls returned to Be- and I realised this would be a great as well as our own family activities. derful and gave me a chance to Making a food drop to a needy family. Gin McGiffin, centre, with translator Vera, Ellen and Ros Fitton larus this year, I opportunity to work with the school and my 16 year through CCLL in Richmond as for o l d d a u g h t e r some reason this school had been went with them overlooked by the authorities. This gave me an added incentive to spend a week working with and on my return from Belarus Gin in Ozarichi, I began searching for contacts in the village with Richmond - for host families and which Swindon people to help raise funds to bring CCLL now has children across. It is early days close ties, along but I am confident that there are with two other people out there who will find the members of the involvement with the charity as rewarding as I have found it and Swindon link. I had some idea will want to be a part of the link in of what to expect its formative stages. Through Andrew’s chairmanship and some things were better and some were worse. The main thing of Swindon Town FC, the club prothat struck me was how friendly vided an auction prize for Swindon and welcoming most of the families CCLL’s May Ball where over £7,500 were and how much some rely on was raised. I hope that next summer, amongst the support of CCLL and also CCIN (Chernobyl Children in Need) in other joint activities, host families from Swindon and Richmond will order to carry on with their lives. Gin is the vice chair of CCIN gather at the club where players can which concentrates on sustainable meet the Belarussian children. If you know of anybody in the projects and humanitarian aid within Belarus. It is a very beautiful Richmond area who might like to the price is right country and there are no physical know more about hosting, please signs of the radiation. You can’t see, ask them to contact me at: ccll. the parking is free touch or smell it - but you are soon richmond@hotmail.co.uk aware of its impact on families when Another group of children from told the statistics of how many are Belarus will be coming to Swindon treated for cancer, or the number of in December. There are currently parents who are drink dependant Parts, enough host families, but the need and therefore cannot provide adrepairs, accessories, is for money to pay for the flights and equately for their children. back up stock people willing to sponsor individual Belarus is a truly communist children in Ozarichi. Only £10 will Open: Mon to Sat country and most families work pay for a child’s school lunch for a 9am to 5.30pm incredibly hard and long hours on whole month. Closed Sundays collective farms for very little pay. For details mail Gin McGiffin at: It was not unusual, when makgin@mcgiffin.com ing food drops, to find quite young Tel: (01793) 700105 60a Beechcroft Road www.swindon.ccll.org.uk children at home looking after even Between Stratton Crossroads & Kingsdown
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16/10/08 15:31:00
swindonlink.com • November 2008
Bradon develops international contact
Over 580 schools across Britain received the International School Award at the beginning of October, including Bradon Forest, Purton, which has seen staff working in schools in Peru and Ghana and a wide range of curriculum based projects. International schools’ coordinator Julie Hunter received the award from broadcaster George Alagiah, right. She said, “the ceremony in London was full of inspiration for all the delegates, including a speech from the first school in India to receive the award. “Receiving this award is the culmination of three years’ work by our entire staff and marks the beginning of phase two. In the next three years we hope to host teachers from our partner school “Our pupils are already raising in Ghana, work with a Comenius money for more projects in Ghana teaching assistant from Poland and by making and selling African the French Embassy have asked us jewellery - the perfect Christmas to host a French teacher too. present.”
Back to school for doggy pupils
Former pupils showed that they had staying power during an open day at Janet’s Puppy Skool in Haydon Wick which raised £375 for Climb: Children Living with Inherited Metabolic Diseases All sorts of doggy activities each other because they have been were on offer including a scurry, taught to behave that way in class,” an obstacle course and a canine said Janet Garrett. “The dogs all version of musical bumps testing behaved beautifully as they were who could respond to the sit com- put through their paces. The huge mand the fastest. The day ended round of applause at the end of with an obedience display of dogs the demonstration delighted the owners and their dogs.” taking part in a mass stay. “There must have been at least 40 dogs in the ring together, either sitting or lying on the grass in close proximity but without disturbing
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Pets At Home Worried who will look after your pet whilst you’re on holiday? Pets At Home could be your answer Pets At Home is a service which cares for all your pets (except dogs) in their own home anywhere in the West Swindon area only
Telephone Sheila Mitchell for further details on 01793 873062 email: sm4hannahlightfoot@talktalk.net
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16/10/08 09:53:02
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swindonlink.com • November 2008
Brook Field commits to the environment
Green A to Z planned
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust and Swindon Council are asking people to help compile information for a recycling directory, in print and on the council’s website. The aim is to create a complete A to Z of where to recycle everything - from aerosol cans to zips. Details should be sent to Gary Lamont: garyl@wiltshirewildlife. org or call 01380 725670 ext 236
Uniforms were swapped for green clothing on 21 October as the Brook Field Primary School in Shaw launched its bid to become an eco-school. The whole school had been set changes towards a more sustainable ing issues such as waste reduction, homework to come up with sug- environment. They will be follow- litter and healthy living to water gestions for a school eco-code and ing a common programme which and biodiversity. the 12 eco-warrior pupils chosen by has been adopted in 46 countries Transport is a key area and Brook their peers and six adults who make worldwide. Field already has pupils finding the eco-action team introduced the Over the next few months the environmentally friendly ways to best ideas at an assembly. eco-action team will carry out an travel. During the summer months, To become an eco-school every- audit to assess the environmental up to 120 pupils were cycling to one will be involved in making performance of their school cover- school.
Have you twigged yet?
Eco-school coordinator Rachel Bartlett, right, with the Brook Field eco-action team
One of the town’s hidden gems, TWIGS community gardens, provides an oasis of calm for all to enjoy and could provide the chance for some stress free and low cost Christmas shopping. People can visit on Wednesdays eleven individually themed areas and Fridays, 10am to 3.30pm, when - from a pretty cottage garden and they can take in the tranquillity of potager to Japanese, vegetable, herb and wildlife friendly plots. these secret gardens. Closeby is a flower and butterfly Products on sale include bird and bug boxes, plants and planters, haven created by John Ball, of FAB, whose vision is to create a seed bank jewellery, bags and cards. Tucked away beside Cheney of Wiltshire’s wildflowers. Stroll Manor Garden Centre, TWIGS has through and discover about setting up your own wildlife reserve. TWIGS stands for Therapeutic Work in Gardening in Swindon and the aim is to help people who have had mental health problems to rebuild confidence and self-esteem while learning new skills. Members of the well established eco-club at Peatmoor Primary School For details call 523294. have joined the Keep Britain Tidy Campaign and will be going beyond richmondfellowship.org.uk/twigs school boundaries to tackle the problem of litter around their school and Peatmoor Lagoon. Make their job easier. Don’t drop litter! RSPCA Mutt Strutt A reliable, friendly
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Eco-teaching assistant Elaine Jackson with Peatmoor litter pickers
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16/10/08 10:10:59
swindonlink.com • November 2008
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Tel: (01793) 526571 Mobile: 07760 127139
FREETH GARDENING SERVICES LTD EST 1990 ❖ Landscaping ❖ Fencing and gates supplied and erected ❖ Trees pruned and felled ❖ Rubbish removed ❖ Patios and shingle laid ❖ Wood chip & compost supplied ❖ Turfing and grass cutting ❖ And all aspects of garden maintenance
Tel: 01793 875451 or 07940 247152
35 Spencer Close, W Swindon
GAZEBO LANDSCAPING CONSTRUCTION AND GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE
Fencing - closeboard, panels etc. Drives and patios - slabs, concrete, shingle, decking Grass cutting - regular maintenance, pruning, planting & patios cleaned Turfing and grass seeding Ponds & pergolas
Patios • Paths Block paving • Drives All walling inc. natural stone Lighting • Decking Fencing • Pergolas All types of water features Tel/fax 01793 764362 Mobile: 07860 762339
Quality products & workmanship
David Hawkins Tree Surgeon
a w garden services
All types of tree services and landscaping Hedge cutting Turfing • Stump grinding Fruit tree pruning Fully insured Free estimates 14 years experience
01793 611861 07967 594707
Chelworth Landscapes
Fencing & Garden Maintenance
• Fencing and gates Closeboard, trellis, panels, picket, chainlink, security etc
• Landscaping Shingle, paving, water features, turfing and planting
• Garden maintenance Grasscutting, tree and shrub pruning, clearance etc.
For free quotation phone (01793) 702029
www.chelworthlandscapes.co.uk
Contact: 01793 692687 Mobile: 07711 253508
Free estimates Fully insured Est 1992
Every client & every garden is different. To fulfil the potential of your garden we offer a planning & design service, from a Gold Medal winning designer, 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. Fully public liability insurance.
Tel/Fax: 01793 850595 Mobile: 07919 543733 www.awgardenservices.co.uk
37
LANDSERVE
Garden Maintenance & Landscaping
Professional care for your garden Grass Cutting - regular maintenance Landscaping - Patios & Paving - repairs & cleaning Hedge Cutting & Pruning
No Job Too Small. All works insured
Call Martin Emery MI Hort. for free quotation
on 01793 703306 or Mobile 07771 956294
lackwood Jill B Garden Magic Royal Horticultural Society Silver Medal
PROFESSIONAL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND LANDSCAPING SERVICE For a free consultation in the Swindon area call Jill Blackwood on:
Tel: 01793 322880 Mobile: 07951 014119
or email: gillian.blackwood@ntlworld.com www.jillblackwoodgardendesign.co.uk
SKI’S TREES
TREE SURGEON NPTC QUALIFIED TREE FELLING / DISMANTLING HEDGE TRIMMING STUMP REMOVAL TREE THINNING AND PRUNING GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE LOGS FOR SALE
FOR FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE 24 HOURS, 7 DAYS A WEEK CALL NEIL ON:
01793 870441 OR 07828910093
Lawn & garden maintenance Hedge cutting & planting Tree planting & pruning Weeding & much more
Tel: 01793 486507 Mob: 077382 98004
willslatergardencare@hotmail.com
www.acerpaving.co.uk
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38
swindonlink.com • November 2008
MOBILE CAR REPAIRS • • • • • • • •
Servicing Repairs Brakes Exhausts M.O.T. Free call out No VAT Engine diagnostics
SLATER’S MOBILE SERVICES
Tel: 079999 44262
easy • MOTs • SERVICING • CAR & VAN REPAIRS • CAMBELTS (ALL MAKES & MODELS) • DIAGNOSTICS • 24 HR RECOVERY SERVICE • TYRES & EXHAUSTS
Guides get busy with needles
Peatmoor Guides discovered new skills in October to help Age Concern Swindon by knitting over 100 mini-bobble hats to decorate bottles of Innocent drinks on sale at Sainsbury’s in the run up to Christmas. The charity is being paid 50p for every hat which goes to essential work with older people this winter. “About half of the guides knew how to knit and the others were helped to learn by mothers and grandmothers who came specially to help at the session,” said guide leader Alison Hall.
GARY VARDY Motorcycle Repairs Servicing & Tuning 30 years experience Factory trained Honda • Suzuki Kawasaki • Yamaha
SAVE 10% JUST BY QUOTING THIS ADVERT
Call (01793) 481008 Mob: 07787 183719
01793 826888
Unit 91, Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor Estate, Swindon
07927 247247
24 HRS
www.chipsaway-sven.co.uk
MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS ★ Engine diagnostics ★ Welding ★ Electrical work ★ MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 30 years experience (No VAT to pay)
CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 07867 556350
FIAT & ALFA ROMEO ✶ All cars welcome ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶
cam belt replacement engine & gearbox repairs & rebuilds electrical fault code reading MOT repairs Air-Con service £58.75 vehicle sales inc. VAT servicing to light commercials
Tel: (01793) 840667
21-52 November 08.indd 38
Following their modern take on Cinderella, a North Swindon youth drama group is seeking stars and back stage crew for its next pantomime. Writers, Emma Burkitt and Kim Curtis, are working on a script to bring Snow White into the 21st century. Instead of dwarves, her companions will be representatives of seven social groups, including chavs, hoodies and emos. The growing drama group, known as Starz under the Stairs, meets at the Underground on Thursday evenings. Some of the Cinderella cast have gone on to take part in other productions and Some of the starz team, from left, Jenna Griffin, Farnew talent is needed. ran Kirton, Ben Strange, Ellen Taylor-Kay, Garry Group member, Jenna Matthews Griffin said “It’s going to be a really Hreod to recruit new members. good show, but we need backstage Open auditions will be held in people and some performers to join November and the panto will be in and rehearse with us.” staged in March. For details call Youth worker, Carole Anne Carole Anne on 07766 368388. Rapson, who has been supporting the young people in setting up the Music at the Underground theatre company, said that it was Open sessions have started again about much more than the produc- at the North Swindon youth base. tion. “It’s all to do with self esteem There will be live music on Wednesand confidence and being able to days 5 November & 10 December, grab something and run with it. It’s 7pm to 9.30pm Entry costs 50p. showing people that if you’ve got a Bands interested in playing at the monthly gigs should contact Carole dream you can actually do it.” The Starz will be visiting Nova Anne Rapson on 07766 368388.
I N D E P E N D E NT
BMW & MERCEDES SPECIALISTS • Fixed Price Service & Inspection • Full Diagnostic Service • Full Air Conditioning Service
Open 8.30am 5.30pm
Call for friendly advice, reliable service & quotes. All major credit & debit cards
OPTIMA MOTORS
Starz under the Stairs get ready for Snow White
39A Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Opposite St Ivel)
PC AUTOCARE
01793 772542 www.pcautocare.co.uk
Unit 1, Bagbury Park, Lydiard Millicent
17/10/08 09:15:01
swindonlink.com • November 2008
Swindon’s library puts town in premier league
Swindon had something big to shout about when the new £10 million Central Library opened its doors on Monday 20 October – on time, and on budget. Built onto the back of the Victorian morning and late-night weekday only two and a half years ago. “The design has completely Town Hall in under two years, it opening until 10pm. For the first won a top national environmental time, the library is open for four fulfilled the original brief, which was to create a thoroughly modern award even before it was finished. hours on Sundays. Swindon Council leader coun energy-efficient building, but one Inside are 77,000 books and over 60 free-to-use computers on three Rod Bluh said, “Swindon now has which complemented the classic floors. Thanks to a new feature – the one of the best public libraries in the Grade Two listed brick-built VictoExpress Zone – it will be open an country - perhaps the best - and it’s rian town hall it’s attached to. I’m extra 24 hours a week, giving early in stark contrast to what was here particularly proud to say that it has been designed in-house, led by the Man in the know council’s architects who are part of Thousands of people over the last 44 years have drawn upon the the property services team.” incomparable knowledge of reference librarian Roger Trayhurn who • Pictures inside the new library can now has a fantastic new domain in which to help people. be seen at www.swindonlink.com
39
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KUDOS FENCING Bespoke Gates
Roger’s dedication and expertise were recognised recently with a Swindon Borough Council Staff Excellence Award. Born and bred in the town, Roger remembers visiting the Central Library with an older sister when he was about four and continued to visit almost daily as he grew up. He recalls working in the prefab buildings which served as the central library until 2006 and then in
the cramped reference library in the old town hall, and welcomes the new library. “It’s been talked about for years and years and we’ve all been extremely excited about the opening as the new building took shape “There is a fantastic team here, who are really passionate about what they do. It’s wonderful that we will have a building and facilities which match their expertise.”
• Full Range of Fencing • Repairs/Refurbishment • All Pressure Treated Timber • Cash and Carry Supply Service • Family Business Since 1983 • Help and Advice on all Fencing Matters
www.kudosfencing.com
Strong Durable Fencing
Unit 23 & 24 Oaklands Ind. Est. Braydon, Swindon
IMPROVE YOUR GARDEN SECURITY Free Estimate on
01793 855800
See behind the scenes
Take a tour of the new Central Library and meet the award winning architects over a glass of wine with the Swindon Civic Trust on Thursday 27 November, 7.30pm. Cost £4, free to trust members. For details mail Kate Brailsford: thebrailsfords@onetel.com or call 495479.
All pink to support breast cancer awareness
Staff at The Works at Redhouse village centre donated ten per cent of their takings on Saturday 25 October to support breast cancer charities. Apart from all the staff dressing up in something pink, the salon offered some great raffle prizes, including a spa day at Champneys and Paul Mitchell hair and beauty products. Works against breast cancer, from left, Natalie Goward, Simone Moss, Danielle Roberts, Lauren Easey, Paul and Sheila Edwards, Jess Kline
21-52 November 08.indd 39
17/10/08 13:22:15
40
Acorn
Home Improvements & Property Maintenance • All electrical work • Part P registered • Carpentry & furniture assembly • Fitted kitchens • Laminate flooring • Wall & floor tiling • Plastering • Decorating Free no obligation written quotes Fully insured, professional & reliable
Tel: 01793 725626 Mobile: 0751 3146306
doctor glass
repairs & replaces cracked, broken or misted double glazed windows Also hinges and locks
Call: 01793 633336 or 01793 854448 Emergency call outs: 07976 219671
PREMIER BUILDERS (SWINDON LTD) est. 1989
Brickwork & Roofing Specialists Walling • Extensions • Alterations Houses • Replacement Windows Plans drawn • Full design & build service • Insurance & Grant work Professional workmanship at competitive rates Please call us for a prompt free quotation. ‘No job too small’
Tel: 01793 704653 Mobile: 078899 21570
MD BUILDERS
GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALIST
Home improvements Carpentry Plastering Fencing Garden walls No job too small For friendly help and advice call Michael on 07713 253380 or 01793 814690 after 6pm
Unit 14a, Turnpike, Blunsdon
D & M ENTERPRISES
PB Plastering & Bricklaying
For all your property & garden maintenance
General Building Services
we are ... ‘the men to do it ..’
Interior and exterior decorating carried out to a high standard including:
Including Patios & Fencing Block Paved Driveways Skirting & Coving Wall & Floor Tiling Painting & Decorating
• Painting • Wallpapering • Coving • Tiling • General Maintenance NO JOB TOO SMALL
For a prompt friendly professional service Telephone: 875354 Mobile: 07970 483393
Call Pete
Tel: 01793 542654 Mob: 07790 283186
COUNTYWIDE HEATING & PLUMBING SERVICES ❖ Gas and LPG ❖ Boiler servicing & breakdowns ❖ Boiler exchange ❖ Full system installation ❖ Landlord safety checks ❖ Power flush ❖ Plumbing ❖ Emergency call outs Reliable friendly service
Competitive rates Tel. 01793 887419 Mob. 07912 882090 countywideheating@yahoo.co.uk
TREVOR WYSE Painter & Decorator
FOR ALL YOUR PROPERTY MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS • Kitchen/Bathroom Installations • Painting & Decorating • Plumbing • Tiling • Minor Electrical • Carpentry • Garden landscaping/Maintenance • Patios & Decking
Tel: 01793 721677 Mobile 07919415849
ABLE PROPERTY SERVICES (WILTSHIRE) LIMITED
• • • •
All Electrical Work • Carpentry Kitchen Fitting • Plumbing Bathroom Fitting • General Building Tiling • Painting Free no obligation advice/estimates No job too big or small Clean and reliable service, fully insured
Tel: 0800 0856022
For your ‘Superior Interior’ • Wallpaper specialist • Coving • Dado Rails • Special Effects • Tiling
Tel: 07976 885203 or 01793 723023
email: trevorwyse@uwclub.net www.trevorwyse.co.uk
■ All types of fencing, decking, pagodas ■ Painting & decorating ■ Laminate flooring ■ Ceramic & floor tiles ■ Kitchen fitting ■ Secondary fit carpentry ■ Plaster boarding, plastering & rendering ■ Plumbing, bathroom suites
Give us a try. For a free no obligation quote, call Jeff on 07747 606344
24 hour ansaphone 01793 700796
MILESTONE Building Services
GENERAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Outside Ground works, patios, paving, brickwork, fencing, decking, landscape gardening Inside Carpentry, plumbing, kitchens & bathrooms, tiling & flooring No job too small • Free estimates Dean Scanlon 01793 422032 • 07789 681536
G.P. Building Specialist Ltd Established for 22 years Specialist in loft and garage conversions & building extensions All types of maintenance and general building work Telephone: Mobile:
01793 435876 0782 444 2143 0777 574 8682
Email: roger@aps-ltd.com www.aps-ltd.com
21-52 November 08.indd 40
15/10/08 17:34:05
QUALITY BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS SHOWERS & GENERAL PLUMBING LEAKING RADIATORS & BURST PIPES, ETC. Local, reliable & competitive prices
HOME: 01793 615321 MOBILE: 07775 842241
Bathrooms
&
HG P R O P E RT Y MAINTENANCE
•PLASTERING •DECORATING •COVING •KITCHEN FITTING •TILING •FASCIAS/GUTTERING •PATIOS •FENCING . . . and much more! NO JOB TOO SMALL CALL ANDY FOR A FREE QUOTATION
07769 707535 01793 323242
Kitchens
Complete installations to dripping taps
Ideas to reality
♦ Plumbing inc. pumped showers, towel warmers ♦ Electrics ♦ Wall & floor tiling ♦ Carpentry ♦ Laminate & wood flooring ♦ Appliance installation ♦ Also other home improvements No job too small
Call Mark Ashdown for a free quote Tel: 01793 887766 Mobile: 07979 267757
FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS Extensions/Rewires New Installations Testing and Inspection Security Lighting Showers & Fuseboxes Free Quotes 24 hour call out facility
01793 878609 07885 543294
GB
PLUMBING SERVICES
• • • • • • • •
DOMESTIC PLUMBING LEAKS & BURST PIPES TAP WASHERS & BALL VALVES IMMERSIONS & HOT WATER CYLINDERS RADIATORS REPLACED TAPS, SINKS & TOILETS FULL BATHROOM INSTALLATIONS WALL & FLOOR TILING
Tel: 01793 524 200 Mobile: 07810 823 966 gbplumbing@hotmail.co.uk
21-52 November 08.indd 41
GREY SKILLS
FOR ALL YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Mature professional tradespeople will carry out all jobs, big or small • Kitchen & bathroom installations • Fitted wardrobes • Painting & decorating • Decking • Real wood & laminate flooring • Carpentry / Plumbing / Electrical Tiling / Building work undertaken Call for free no obligation quotes All work guaranteed
Call 07964 096007
L.J. TILING
PHONE 4 PHIL
41
Professional, experienced tiler Specialist in all aspects of the trade • Walls & floors • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Conservatories Call Leon for a free, no obligation quote on: 01793 524147 or 07919 255673
Phone: 01793 870040 Mob: 07765 002949
Extensions • Conservatories Garage & Loft conversions Alterations • Renovations Kitchens • Bathrooms Patios & decking • Garden walls No job too big or small! 18 years experience • References available
Call Neil Tanner for a FREE competitive quote
0800 1357063 / 07967 155502 Mail: info@benchmark-construction.co.uk www.benchmark-construction.co.uk
Repairs & Maintenance Electrical (inc. insp & test) Plumbing Domestic/Commercial Design, installations & repairs Fully insured Guaranteed work
Mobile: 07791 905 314 Tel: 01793 491 544 adeptrm@hotmail.com Reliable & Reasonable
ALL SEASONS 24 HR PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES
Specialists in Design, supply & installation of bespoke bathrooms Complete service Working in conjunction with
TileSure
Call Tony on: Tel: 01793 521856 or Mobile: 07770 615154 Free quotations All work guaranteed
Qualified tradesman, 28 years experience
J’s Electrical
HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE • Kitchen/bathroom upgrades • Painting and decorating • Electrical fittings replaced • Laminate flooring • Door hanging • Locks • Tiling • Leaking taps • Flat pack furniture • Fencing • Garden maintenance • No job too small & much more John Woodham
adept
A local reliable & friendly service 24 YEARS EXPERIENCE Installation & Servicing NG & LPG ✓ Boiler & System Upgrades ✓ Breakdown & Maintenance ✓ Bathrooms, Showers & Wet Rooms ✓ Power Flushing / Descaling ✓ DIY Assisted Projects ✓
For ALL your plumbing, heating & gas requirements call Assured on
01793 700 820 www.assured-plumbing.co.uk
✭ Extra sockets and lights ✭ Shower and cooker installation ✭ Fuse board replacement ✭ Complete re-wiring ✭ Security lighting ✭ P.A.T. testing NO JOB TOO SMALL Mobile: 07985 195893 Tel: 01793 320447 Also general plumbing, tiling & plastering
VINE UK LTD Plumbing, central heating, powerflushing
All plumbing, central heating and drainage Boiler servicing, repairs and replacements Natural Gas, LPG and Oil Approved Full Kitchens and Bathrooms Electrical and Gas Safety Testing Solar Heating Building and maintenance Corgi and Part P Registered
Lee Avery (01793) 423000 or 07773 344715
17/10/08 13:07:44
42
BATHROOMS
RS
BATHROOMS
BATHROOMS & KITCHENS
FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION
Wall & Floor Tiling For a free estimate Call Sean on 703550 Mobile: 07749 862361 www.rsbathrooms.com
DECORATOR MARK PONTING PAINTING & DECORATING Inc. WALL PAPERING
Domestic and Commercial
All work guaranteed
Free Quotations
Tel: 01793 727942
HEATING & PLUMBING Quality Plumbing & Heating
❉ Quality bathroom suites fitted - tiling, electrics, flooring all taken care of ❉ All types of plumbing undertaken - leaking taps, pumps, tanks, burst pipes, machines installed
Free estimates
01793 876600 07748 964433
Approved Plumber
DECORATOR & CARPENTRY • Interior/exterior painting and decorating • Wallpaper • Tiling • Coving • Laminate flooring • Doors & skirting replacement • Kitchen • Bathroom internal alterations No job too small • Rooms left tidy daily Free no obligation 24 hour quotations
Call Andy: 01793 729354
or 07900 835116
HEATING & PLUMBING
Boiler servicing & repairs Replacement boilers Outside taps Power showers Bathrooms & tiling Reg: 128966
All plumbing work undertaken Reliable service, realistic prices
Kevin Rolfe Tel: 01793 881905 Mobile: 07973 663367
SERVICES Plumbing & Heating Prompt & Efficient Service Fixed Quotations No Call Out Charge
Call Nick on: 07875 088864
PLASTERING
Brian Jones Plastering Services
KTL
External rendering Plastering two coat Re-skimming Dry lining Coving New or repairs
Tel: 01793 849010 Mobile: 07976 572905
Nov 08 Repair & Improv.indd 42
Paul Rhind
Galaxy Construction Ltd
Bathroom suites and kitchens fitted
UPVC windows & doors Conservatories, fascias and guttering Roofing & building maintenance Painting, decorating, ceramic tiling Telephone/fax: 01793 874807
Extensions Garage conversions Garden walls & patios Block paved driveways Plastering & coving
For a free quote call Leighton on 01793 813438 or 07917 208094
DECORATOR
DECORATOR
Interior & Exterior Painting & Decorating
PAINTING AND DECORATING
• High quality experienced workmanship • All work undertaken • A friendly reliable service with references available • Full Public Liability Insurance cover
For free estimate call Paul Comer on 01793 321981 or 07775 840236
HEATING & PLUMBING Plumbing & Heating Services
PLASTERING
✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭
BUILDING SERVICES
A CHANGE OF COLOUR
Independent decorator specialising in all aspects of interior and exterior decorating ✓ Domestic and small commercial ✓ Insurance work undertaken ✓ Full Public Liability insurance ✓ Free no obligation quotation ✓ References available Age Concern registered decorator
Telephone: (01793) 497461 Mobile: 07919 671307
HEATING & PLUMBING RJ PEARCE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD
• Central heating installation • • • • •
BUILDING SERVICES
Plastering
Fully qualified with over 25 years experience Two coat plaster/re-skimming Dry lining/coving Timber/metal stud partitioning External finishes Floor screeding Small building works No job too small
Home: 01793 709811 Mobile: 07778 665115
30 years plumbing & heating experience British Gas trained
Central heating installations All Plumbing work undertaken Servicing & repairs Bathroom Installations All at competitive rates
20 years experience in plumbing work
• Central heating • Bathrooms & showers • Competitive rates • All work guaranteed • No job too small
Alec McKay Tel: 01793 878353 Mobile: 07963 953439
E-mail: alecmckay@aol.com
For further details call Richard on 01793 879156 or 07747 723606
PLUMBING
PLUMBING
Reg: 203455
From an annoying drip to a full bathroom re-fit No call out charge Free quotations Professional & friendly service
07747 752190 01793 529192
16/10/08 13:31:52
ELECTRICIAN Arc Electrical Services Ltd
01793 611398 07968 757860
HOME MAINTENANCE
01793 872054 0770 480 1959
arcelectrics@aol.com • Installations and modifications, interior or exterior • Full compliance to all regulations • P.A.T. undertaken • All work fully guaranteed • Free quotations • 24hr call out • Fast, top quality service
Call Glen on: 01793 487450 07774 841879
PLUMBING
• Everything from a new tap washer, to a complete bathroom suite. • No job is too small. • No callout charge. • Free estimates. For a professional, reliable service, contact us now Tel: 01793 875888 Mobile: 07951761764 www.selectplumbingservices.co.uk
Nov 08 Repair & Improv.indd 43
SAFE & SHAW
ELECTRICAL SERVICES ✓ EXTRA SOCKETS / LIGHTS ✓ SECURITY LIGHTING/FIRE ALARMS ✓ GARDEN LIGHTING & OUTDOOR SOCKETS ✓ SHOWERS/COOKERS INSTALLED ✓ FUSE BOARD REPLACEMENT ✓ COMPLETE RE-WIRING FREE QUOTATIONS, NO OBLIGATION
Please call 07769 883717
Steve George
for Kitchens & Bathrooms Tel: 874480 Mobile: 07860 760364
ALL KITCHENS FITTED
(Howdens, Jewsons etc.)
• Free survey • Building work • Plastering • Tiling & worktops • Electrics & plumbing • Wooden flooring • All types of worktops fitted incl granite
COMPLETE BATHROOMS FITTED Building work, plastering, tiling, electrics, plumbing, furniture APPROVED
30 years experienced tradesman
ROOFING
TILING
GILES BROS
Select Plumbing Services Repairs, maintenance or new installation at a competitive price
ELECTRICIAN
KITCHEN & BATHROOM SERVICES
G R SERVICES Painting and decorating Carpentry services Private garden & commercial grounds maintenance Turfing, fencing, patios Wall tiling Fascias & guttering Roof repairs Friendly, reliable & competitive
FREE ESTIMATES
Free estimates Jamie Scanlon 704309 or 0777 594 8833 www.jspropertyservices.co.uk
Kevin Cook Tel: 814833 or 07776 142981
Supplied. Installed. Repaired Free estimates, free advice No Salesmen Your local choice
J S Property Services General carpentry Fitted kitchens / bedrooms Laminate and solid flooring Replacement doors Skirtings / architraves Decking and patios General building maintenance
Free no obligation quotes
Windows, Doors, Conservatories
DECORATOR
Home & Garden Improvements
❍ Fitted bedrooms and kitchens ❍ Replacement doors & staircases ❍ Laminate floors ❍ Household repairs and general maintenance ❍ Decking - supplied and fitted
DOUBLE GLAZING
CARPENTRY
● Felt roofing ● Asphalt roofing ● Sheet roofing ● Tiling ● Slating ● Single Ply ● Fascia ● Guttering
CERAMIC TILING FLOOR & WALL SPECIALISTS
❇❇❇
Free Quotes Call Lee on 0771 8102 921
Call Neil on 01793 700436 07725 028776
Call Mike on 0778 8444 084 or 01793 520526
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR
Pa inte r&
J&R Carpentry Services
CARPENTRY
REDUCTIONS FOR OAPs
PR ID E
CARPENTRY
De cor ato r
43
Call 01793 334823 or 07788 572043
FLOORING
P.J.J. FLOORING SERVICES All aspects of flooring: wood to carpet MASTERFITTER
N I CF National Institute of Carpet & Floorlayers
Wood & ceramics • Supply or fit only Commercial/domestic • Safety flooring All work guaranteed 17 years experience Call now for a free, at home consultation
01793 493119 07970 865883
MAINTENANCE
RETIRED TRADES ASSOCIATES Retired and semi-retired tradesmen available for all household tasks Electrical • Plumbing Carpentry • Decorating Plastering • Patios • Extensions
Call Andrew on 07718 022201
• Reliable • Trustworthy • • Affordable •
TILING
TileSure
CERAMIC TILING
Walls & floors Bathrooms, kitchens & conservatories Under floor heating fitted Complete bathroom fitting in conjunction with
ALL SEASONS 24 HR
PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES QUALITY FINISH
Call Maurice on 01793 349704 or 07904 142692
16/10/08 13:32:13
44
Accountancy
DBH Chartered Certified Accountants
Small Business Specialists
Accountancy Services
FIFTEEN YEARS EXPERIENCE OF: Book keeping - Sage Line 50 VAT returns Payroll - CIS Scheme Final Accounts Tax Returns Personal service for small businesses Competitive prices
Tel: 01793 610008 email: abp@dykebrading.co.uk
www.dykebrading.co.uk
Accountancy Lynette White MAAT
Telephone: 01793 521020 Mobile: 07877 950625 Email: lynettewhite48@btinternet.com
chiropractor
NECK PAIN BACK PAIN HEADACHES SPORTS INJURY CAR ACCIDENT
Free 20 minute consultation to assess if Chiropractic will benefit you. Please call
01793 602454
Chiropractic is a natural and safe approach to help the problems above and many more such as knee and elbow pain, repetitive strain, heavy lifting injury, etc. And we can help young and old alike.
54 Basepoint Centre, Westlea, Swindon
CLEARANCE
Chris Payne ✭ ✭ ✭ ✭
Freeview & Sky installations TV & radio aerials Home cinema Extra TV & telephone points
No call out charge Tel: 01793 700078 Mobile: 07904 330724
The Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Specialist
Clare Duncan-Hawes BSc (Hons) MSc DC
Member of the British Chiropractic Association & College of Chiropractors. Registered with GCC
www.cjduncan-hawes.co.uk
Computer support Com Master’s PC Repairs
Why go anywhere else? When we’ll come to you.....
✻ Free home & business visits ✻ Jargon free advice & support ✻ Upgrades/repairs ✻ All parts & labour guaranteed ✻ Flexible hours, inc. eve/weekends
Tel: 01793 422534 or Mobile: 0792 005 6077
• Carpets, rugs, curtains, suites etc • Emergency call out available • Hard floors cleaned and sealed • Stain removal • Protection treatment • Fully insured • Quickly usable
You’ll be amazed how affordable it is ....call for your free estimate from your local independent on 01793 731418 or mobile: 07808 355487 Email: cliff.whiteway@btinternet.com
DVD TRANSFER
Anything transferred onto DVD Disc Specialist in Cine Film Transfer, Camcorder Tapes, VHS Tapes, Camcorder Discs We collect and deliver over a wide area
Tel: 01793 705333 Mobile: 07831 575758 PO Box 2079, Manvers St, Bath BA1 3TJ
OVEN CLEANING
Oven cleaning
removals
White Van Man 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
Service Sector Nov 08indd.indd 44
AErial services
Aerials & Satellite Systems
CARPET Cleaning
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cleaning Maria Baskerville the new cleaning company based in Priory Vale Offering great quality cleaning at competitive prices Daily, weekly, monthly or one-off cleans
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16/10/08 13:34:07
45
BOOK-KEEPING
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CLEANING
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Homes That Sparkle From People Who Shine
We can clean your home for you and offer a quality service s 7EEKLY FORTNIGHTLY one-off cleans s &ULLY INSURED AND PET FRIENDLY s 2ELIABLE AND TRUSTWORTHY s 2EFERENCES AVAILABLE s ,OCAL BUSINESS s )RONING SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE For a free quotation or further information call Mandy on
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GARAGE DOORS The Automatic Choice
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email: swindondoorservice@btinternet.co.uk
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Service Sector Nov 08indd.indd 45 21-52 November 08.indd 45
During half term Clinton Classon, sports coordinator at Nova Hreod, will return to his native South Africa as part of a teaching exchange funded by the British Council. He has set up links with Harold Cressy High School in Cape Town, where his brother is a history teacher. Mr Classon will be accompanied by Nova’s community coordinator and former deputy headteacher Tom Wilkes for a week-long visit during half term. They hope to set up links across all areas of the Clinton Classon and Tom Wilkes, making links curriculum and Nova staff between Swindon and Cape Town “I’m looking forward to visiting a have suggested a number of joint projects including shared reading new country,� said Mr Wilkes. “I’m in literacy, science work looking at very excited about a link to a school the effects of the sun and the use of in a very different environment. It will be fascinating to compare and digital technology in maths. Obvious areas for study are ge- contrast the two schools and if the ography and history. Harold Cressy project is successful we would look High School is located on the edge at applying for more grants with of District 6, which was forcibly the aim of arranging a student cleared by the apartheid regime in exchange.� In December, Anthony Classon the 1970s. Clinton Classon’s mother was and another teacher from Harold among the 60,000 people who were Cressy will visit Nova Hreod to further develop the link. made to move out.
Bishop cuts ribbon on special space
Oliver Tomkins Infants School celebrated its 25th birthday with a visit from the Bishop of Bristol Rev Mike Hill who ofďŹ cially opened a newly built nurture room. The Rainbow Room will provide a quiet place where children can work in small groups with specialist staff or take time out. Bishop Mike led a school assembly before the official opening. To mark the school’s birthday, chil- Bishop Mike with Margaret Williams, right, opening the dren and adults were Rainbow Room each given an Oliver Tomkins Mayes, said the day had been a good opportunity to meet everybody teddy. Mayor of Swindon Steve Wake- who will be involved. Head, Rhian Cockwell, was deďŹ eld, Director of Children’s Services, John Gilbert, and the school’s lighted with the morning’s celebraďŹ rst head teacher, Margaret Wil- tion. “As one of the twelve schools liams were among those who joined taking part in a government project the pupils to watch the opening and on developing children’s emotional share the Bishop’s blessing of the wellbeing, this building will be inbuilding. The visiting dignitaries valuable. It will provide a vibrant, were then shown round the build- warm and comfortable place where children and adults can happily ing by proud pupils. The school is taking part in a pilot work together to develop the social, scheme, focussing on mental health emotional and behavioural skills issues, which will be introduced needed in order to succeed.â€? The Rainbow Room will also nationally from 2009. Staff will be working alongside a team from be home to TOOTS toddler group Targeted Mental Health in Schools which meets on Wednesdays at and their project manager, Pauline 9.10am. For details call 870471.
Winners of the Billy Smart’s Circus competition
SAVE THOSE MEMORIES Call 01793 495733 or 07940 810733 www.savethosememories.co .uk DON’T DELAY SAVE THOSE MEMORIES TODAY
South African links for Nova Hreod
www.aandlcleaningservices.co.uk
Angela Hynd, Freshbrook; Mrs M Rogers, Greenmeadow; Heather Morgan, Rushey Platt; Mrs N Cole, Freshbrook; Dani Hillary, Redhouse; Mrs M Marsh, Shaw; J Giles, Shaw; Louise Spencer, Middleleaze; Helen Williams, Woodhall Park; Nicola Jevolet, Westlea; Mrs L Shewry, St Andrews Ridge; Karla Harvey, Haydon Wick; Mr & Mrs P Pestridge, Haydon Wick; Emma Coates, Grange Park; Mrs L Brown, Toothill.
16/10/08 13:34:51 16/10/08 15:38:32
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swindonlink.com • November 2008
We believe that Jesus Christ is able to forgive our past, give meaning to the present and hope for the future
Sunday services are at 10am & 6.30pm
For further information you can either ring (01793) 873050; e-mail: office@freshbrook.org or visit: www.freshbook.org
“the gift of God is Eternal Life” (Romans 6 v23)
Don’t ignore prayer as a way to cope with crisis Ann Carter, vicar at Toothill Church, says the chaos in the financial markets and the threat of recession has caused everybody to question their place in the world. Many people today are struggling with the precarious nature of the current economic climate. Money seems to pour though our hands faster than ever with the increasing price of food and fuel. We look to the future and wonder what will happen to savings and investments. Jobs too are threatened and that awful word ‘redundancy’ is in many people’s minds. Will we be able to keep a roof over our heads, to feed our children, or to survive on our
pension? These are difficulties that affect our security but at another level can also impact the very nature of who we are as people. Most of us do our utmost to remain solvent and to provide for those around us, but in today’s climate it feels as if much of this is now outside of our control. We feel helpless, and our stress levels increase as a result. Sometimes in such situations it is helpful to take a brief time out; to reflect on wider issues of life; to think; maybe even to pray.
Toothill Church will be open on Saturday 1 November from 10.30am until 4pm with a ‘River of Life’ prayer labyrinth. Everyone is invited to come and take time out to walk the labyrinth which will offer a variety of activities to help us think about how we can refresh our lives. Then stay to refresh yourself again with tea and coffee. Come and go as you wish during the opening hours. The church service on Sunday 2 November, 10.30am, will follow the same theme.
Scientist responds to creationist view
Join us in worship on Sunday mornings
Westlea Church, Westlea School: 10am St Mary’s, Lydiard Tregoze - the church in the park: 10am All Saints’, Lydiard Millicent - the church in the village: 10.30am Holy Trinity, Shaw: 10.30am Toothill Church: 10.30am For details of these and our other services call the Partnership Office on 874221 Email: partnershipoffice@btopenworld.com www.wswinlyd.org.uk Anglican • Baptist • Methodist • United Reformed Church
On Thames Avenue next door to Morrisons Contact: Revd Raymond Adams Tel: 634258
St. John’s Haydon Wick Sunday Services 9am 11am
Traditional communion service Eventful, contemporary worship with children’s groups meeting
www.stjohnshaydonwick.org.uk
Alpha
Midwe ek Babies & Toddle rs Group (Wed) Alpha Courses in Midwe ek Small Groups n tow the oss acr s me Ho
Join us, Sundays from 10:30am at the Trinity Centre, Stonehill Green, Westlea, for a time of family worship & bible teaching
21-52 November 08.indd 46
Kids Church & Ignite
What kind of thinking person today would believe the Bible’s account of creation over the ‘scientific view’ of evolution and is there scientific evidence to support the Genesis account? Chemistry graduate and former science teacher Paul Taylor will be attending North Swindon Baptist Church in November to discuss the evidence of how the world came into being. All the sessions are free and take place at Abbey Meads Community Primary School on: Saturday 8 November, 7.30pm. Dinosaurs and the Bible, followed by questions and answers Sunday 9 November, 10.30am. Noah and the Flood
Sunday 9 November, 6.30pm. Paul will address the various views and interpretations of the Genesis account of creation. For further details, call pastor Steve Mann on 320172.
WORSHIP WITH US @
THE REDEEMED CHRISTIAN CHURCH OF GOD OVERCOMERS HOUSE SWINDON
A Pentecostal Church where you can find love, forgiveness, joy and hope for all your situations Sundays: Worship Service: 10.30am Saturdays: Prayers / Bible Study: 6pm - 7pm 1st Saturday of the month: Prayer & Fasting: 6pm - 7pm For prayer, counselling and more information contact: Pastor Kunle Gabriel Adegboyega
01793 322506 / 0774 7520992 Email: gadegboyega@yahoo.co.uk
Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive, West Swindon SN5 8DH
Sunday Worship 10.30am Sunday School and Creche Meeting at Abbey Meads Community School
11-18’s Youth Work
call the church For more information 130 or visit 526 93 017 office on ww w.gatewaychurchsw
indon.org.uk
15/10/08 17:18:28
DOUBLE THE DEAL. MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE. The Ridings
N25 1WB rd, Taw Hill S va le ou B he T £239,995 homes from 3 & 4 bedroom
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atio Sales inform m – 5.00pm onday, 10.00a M to ay Thursd 0 4 48
e66 or text Georg
to 8
d Summermeaoff Southwold Close,
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ay, off Dorcan W 5BL 3 N S n do £99,995 Swin m homes from oo dr be 5 & 3 1, 2, 7 0845 026 415n centre open daily, io at Sales inform 00pm 10.00am – 5. e62 to 84840 rg eo or text G
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21-52 November 08.indd 47
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15/10/08 17:18:50
Two centres with so much to do
Lagoon Style Leisure Pool with Waves, Domebuster Flumes and Lagoon Falls Slide. Gym with Technogym Excite Equipment. Fitness Classes. Outdoor Pitches, Ball and Racquet Sports. Indoor Bowls. Hi5 Holiday Camp and Crèche. Birthday Parties. Masters Recreation Sessions. Courses. Room Hire. Concert Venue. Café and Bar.
Ice Skating. Swimming Pool. 3G Outdoor Football Pitches. Indoor Climbing Wall. Gym with Cardio Theatre. Fitness Classes. Health Suite. Ball & Racquet Sports. Snooker. Hi5 Holiday Camp and Crèche. Birthday Parties. Recreation Sessions. Masters Sessions. Courses. Sports Equipment Shop. Room Hire. Café and Bar.
Two of the most popular attractions in town Oasis Leisure Centre North Star Avenue, Swindon SN2 1EP Tel: 01793 445401
www.swindon.gov.uk/oasis 21-52 November 08.indd 48
Link Centre Whitehill Way,Westlea, Swindon SN5 7DL Tel: 01793 445566
www.swindon.gov.uk/link 15/10/08 17:19:04