West Swindon's
Magazine
No. 91 • October 1989 • Circulation 10,000
Great productivity from Rod West Swindon's Adult Education Organiser is leaving for another job after four years work in the area. Rod Kenseti, pictured below,
took up his post just before Greendown Community School opened in 1985. At the time there were 37 adults enrolled in four classes. In the adult education year just started, around 2,600 adults have enrolled in 180 classes of bewildering variety. Rod is moving on to be organiser of adult classes in schools across the centre of Swindon.
How to contact Paul Last month The Link welcomed Paul Ryan, a new community worker who is specialising in developing play opportunities for children. Unfortunately we managed to omit how readers can contact him. So that we don't drop it off the end of the story again, he can be contacted on 693787 ext.224 or 613183. Paul's job is to work with local people to create better play activities for children though not to organise playschemes directly. He is keen to meet people across West Swindon who have ideas about meeting the needs of children in their neighbourhood.
SAVE ,# RE-CYCLE
In our second look at how to put household waste to better use David Sea rby, co-ordinator of Swindon Friends of the Earth puts some ideas on page 20.
Re-cycle your old fools Tools for Self-Reliance are putting on a display in the West Swindon Library. You can leave any tools that can be reused by people who don't have any.
Are you fending towards Greeness? David Searby also suggest how we could consume without costing the earth on page 21.
Wakkies Leisure Suite Biunsdon House Hotel Blunsdon 721701 ext 124 Monday to Saturday
Looking at schools Parents and children about to leave primary school have to choose a secondary school soon. We start a four part photographictourof the schoolsdesignated to take West Swindon pupils on page 17.
Policing W. Swindon On page 24 we meet Superintendent Eric Tweddie, the man in charge of police in this area.
Clarke Homes helps Sparcells residents West Swindon's most remote has had a long, successful rela- a long time. If you have young neighbourhood now has a meet- tionship with Swindon and we children and don't have a car, ing place, thanks to a local house are pleased to make a contribu- then you have to walk a long builder. tion to the community." way over temporary footpaths The first resito the facilities in dents moved into Shaw. Sparcells two "Clarke Homes years ago but did have made a marnot have anyvellous gesture to where to meet. the development The nearest faciliof our commuties in Shaw are nity. Now we can over a mile away organise groups by foot. Earlier and activities this year the Ocwhich bring tobus mobile people together." c0mmUnity The Sparcells centre visited the Community area for one Centre will be morning a week. managed by the But now, after neCommunity DeCommunity activists Elaine Munday (left) and Coby Day, gotiations with velopment Diviwith their children, celebrate as the first section of the Sparcells T h a m e s do w n sion at Thtemporary community centre is lowered into position Council, Clarke amesdown BorHomes have provided a large The finishing touches are ough Council. Bookings for brand new temporary building being made to the new commu- group use and private hire can which has been located next to nity centre before local groups be made by ringing 26161 the doctor's surgery on Spar- can move in. A parent and tod- ext.3176. cells Drive. dler group and a playgroup have First fete brings in The company has built some been in the planning stages for loads a money 250 houses in West Swindon and many months. The Friday mornSparcells people responded with it is pleased to be helping out in ing get-togethers on the Octobus Sparcells according to Steve has meant that mothers have great generosity at the first local fundraising event on 2 September. Phillips, Director and Regional been able to meet each other and Manager for Clarke Homes start to raise money to buy toys Over £230 was raised in an afternoon of fun. it was far more than we (Midlands). "Clarke Homes has and equipment. expected," said joint-organiser had a long association with Sparcells Community Group Elaine Munday. "The money will be Thamesdown and have been co-ordinator Elaine Munday is used to equip the much needed building houses in West Swin- pleased that a meeting place is playgroup. We want to thank all the don since 1978. We recognise being provided. "Life in Spar- people who contributed items for the needs of the people who live cells has been very frustrating sale and those who helped. The in Sparcells as it's cut off fromthe and we've been pressingTh- fête did a great deal for community rest of the area. The company amesdown to do something for spirit."
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FRONT PIECE
3
Bike shortage for Christmas predicts local dealer
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The amazing summer weather and the general trend to keep fit has meant there could be a shortage of bicycles at Christmas according to a Swindon cycle dealer. John Mitchell, pictured right, proprietor of Express Cycles ,has seen an enormous boom in the sale of bikes, especially Mountain Bikes or All Terrain Bikes. "Riding bicycles has become more popular than ever before. A lot more youngsters are riding bikes as well as older people who perhaps have not ridden a bike for years. "Most manufacturers have turned much of their production capacity over to Mountain Bikes to cope with the soaring demand. Published by West This means that there are fewer Swindon Publications of the other styles of bike avail13 Castle Dore able. If the demand for Mountain Freshbrook, Swindon Bikes keeps up, there could be Tel: (0793) 872282 shortages leading up to Christmas." Publisher/Editor: Express Cycles run a helpful Roger Ogle Christmas Savings Club to spread Advertising Sales: the cost of buying a bike. A 10% Elizabeth Wood deposit reserves any machine. Tel: 871793 Express Cycles can be found at 96 * Apple Macintosh design, - 99 Manchester Road, Swindon. layout and lasersetting by Tel: 34907 or 513705. Keystrokes Electronic Design Printed by Western Webb, Bristol
VINNYS UNISEX HAIR SALON (Formerly Wakkies) Opening Hours Monday 9am - 1pm Tuesday to Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 7pm Saturday 9am - 3pm
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The Link
Published on the Wednesday closest to the first of the month. Copy date: 20th of the preceding month. "The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in tact, won the competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising." Contents 3 Front Piece Toothill 4 6-7 Freshbrook & Grange Park B Westiea 10 Shaw 12 For Women 13 Under Fives 14 At Your Library 16 Day In the Life Education Matters 17 18 Art Scene 19 Recreation 20 Save & Re-cycle Green Tendencies 21 22-28 New & Views 29 Home & Garden 30 Round Up 31 The Reference Page
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New short cut link A new road which links Grange Park and Shaw is now open. The road is opposite the western entrance to Lydiard Park, and serves The Prinnels housing area around Wick Farm. It has been built along part of the old salt way of Hay Lane. The remaining part of Hay Lane, or Watery Lane as it used to be known, will be preserved as a footpath and cycle track.
New Health Visitors Jane Lee and Janet Hale who have been covering Grange Park will be joined in mid-October by Geraldine Piperwho will take over Mrs Goodwin's clients.
We care more -
BRITISH NURSING ASSOCIATION
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NURSES, NURSES, NURSES BNA, the largest nursing association in the UK has a local branch, supplying the local hospitals, nursing homes and private patients. Join now. Hours to suit. Good (weekly) rates of pay. We also need carers and auxiliaries, house keepers, home helps etc.
27 Bath Road, Swindon. (0793) 542204 CONCERTS, EXCURSIONS & TOURS
Concerts Now Booking
26 Oct Wembley Arena £23.50 The Who 10 Dec Wembley Arena £23.00 Alice Cooper 19 Dec Wembley Arena Status Quo £19.00 Motorhead 20 Dec Hammersmith Odeon £14.00 Paul McCartney 21 Jan Wembley Arena £29.00 All prices are inclusive of luxury coach travel and top price concert tickets Excursions Adult Child Sat 7 Oct Blackpool (for illuminations) £9.00 £6.50 Sun 8 Oct Bicester Market (Finmere) £4.00 £2.50 Wed 11 Oct Welsh Border Country £6.00 £4.50 Blackpool Illuminations Sat 21 Oct £9.00 £6.50 Forest of Dean & Wye Valley £5.00 Sun 22 Oct £3.75
TTHAMESDOWN TRANSPORT Enquiries and Bookings at The Travel Shop, Nr Primark, Fleming Way. Tel: 615399
We are not only THE MOUNTAIN BIKE SHOP. We also stock most other shapes and designs and our price
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Boilers Serviced Pump Fitting Service Water Softners Fitted Washing Machines & Dishwashers Installed Telephone: (0793) 642995
RALPH PALMER PHARMACY 3 Deerhurst Way, Toothill Hours of Opening: Mon - Fri 9a.m. - 1p.m. 2p.m. - 6p.m. Sat. 9a.m. - 12 noon Telephone: 512063
TOOTHILL Can the bonfire be Credit Union bigger and better? launched Toothill Neighbourhood Worker Lucie Hartley appeals for help with organising one of West Swindon's 'traditional' community events. Bonfire Night in Toothill was a great success last year. The burning of a mock Houses of Parliament and guys made by young people hit the local headlines! There was a spectacular display of fireworks and Thamesdown Community Arts provided wonderful entertainment. A bar, disco and food also added to a very enjoyable evening for hundreds of people. I hope that this year's community bonfire on Friday 3 November will be equally memorable. However, in order to make it a success we need lots of people from all over West Swindon to get involved in its organisation. We (all three of us so far!) need others who can help in a variety of ways - helping to build the bonfire, prepare the fireworks, work on the special effects, make posters, be a marshall on the night. If you can help, there's a meeting to start organising. Tuesday 10 October at 7p.m,upstairs at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive, Toothill. Can you come? Remember, remember the more people involved, the bigger and better Toothill's bonfire night will be.
If you cannot attend the meeting, but would like to be involved, please ring Lucie Hartley on 26161 ext.3092.
Is there going to be a Tooth!!! Bonfire Night this year? If you would like to see it taking place, come to an organising meeting on Tuesday 10 October at 7p.m. Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive, Tooth!!!.
After months of planning and development the Toothill Credit Union held its inaugural launch meeting on Friday 15 September. Many members attended and a management committee was formed. Now that it is established, the committee is more keen than ever for more Toothill people to join the Credit Union. Members are encouraged to save on a regular basis, as little as 50p per week for example. After entitled to apply for a loan which saving for 13 weeks, a member is is lent at a very low rate of interRaising a glass to celebrate the launch, est. from left, Maxine Jeacock, Robina Credit Unions are set up to Winslow, Kingsley Matthews, directly benefit its members, and Suzanne Smith, Agnes Rundell not to make money out of them. All the surplus money in the credit union is paid back to its members in the form of dividends. There will soon be other benefits as well. Some shops in Swindon will soon be offering up to 10% off on goods purchased from them. To find out more about Toothill Credit Union or to apply for membership, visit Toothill Community Centre on a Tuesday, 12noon to 1p.m. ora Friday, 7p.m. to 8p.m. where a committee member will be able to provide information.
Youth club building has a future
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Choose Us First For the Best Quality Take Home Food Available Fried Freshly For You Cod, Plaice, Haddock, Skate, Huss, Scampi, Chips, Various Pies, Sausages and Chicken. Why not try one of our delicious Curries for a change? Have you had one of our big beefburgers? They're Great. Open Monday - Saturday 11.30am - 2pm; 430pm - 11pm Car Park 'A' West Swindon Centre TELEPHONE ORDERS WELCOME - 870455
The young people from Toothill working out their ideas at the meeting with help from some wall charts and Lucie Hartley, left. Things are moving forward in made regarding the layout of the the bid to get Toothill Youth Club building and how the youth club off the ground again, will be run. The West Swindon A group of young people and Youth Resources Committee are adults met on 9 September to talk keen for more young people and about and draw up plans for the Toothill residents to become inre-development of the old build- volved in these decisions. ing which has stood on the TootThe next meeting to discuss hill Farm site for many years. the ideas put forward so far will The plans will be submitted by be held on Monday 2 October at the West Swindon Youth Re- 7.30p.m. Anyone who has an sources Committee to Wiltshire interest in the club is invited to County Council with an applica- take part. For further details, tion for a grant to do the work, contact Lucie Hartley on 26161 Many decisions have still to be ext.3092.
Where to find the best p art-exchange deals in Wiltshire Right now, buy a Heron home at any of these AVON MEADOWS• CHIPPENHAM two superb locations and you'll get incredible value for money. Because we've made our homes even more affordable without any reduction in quality or specification. But not only that, with our special Part- showhome open Mon to Fri 2pm So6pe,, weekends loam to 5pm. Telephone (0249) 443207. Exchange Plan', we've also made it easier to buy Four and five bedroom selected plots. homes from The Royale. 4 bedrooms £120,000 to £189,500. from £142,500. It works very simply. Subject to inspection, Heron will, within 7 days, make you an attractive offer on your present home, based upon independent estate agents' valuations. After acceptance, you'll have a fixed guaran"D 9-:)[my Cteed offer* from Heron and a fixed, guaranteed price 1,0k Cent,, CJL)L on your new Heron home. wo, eons,) ç sw,00 Normally, this means contracts can be *42 59 exchanged within 28 days avoiding broken chains and saving on agent's fees and probably stamp Skowhoew, open Moo to p,i 2pm to 6pm. weekends lOam to 5pm. Telephone: (0793) 772255. duty too. Three and four bedroom To find out more, and to see Heron quality, homes from The Envoy. 4 bedrooms £111,000 to £159e000. visit our showhomes soon. from £129,500.
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6 Facechoice Pharmacy Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 870226 Opening Times: Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm; 2.15pm - 7pm Saturday 9am 1 2.3Opm
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK School might Jumble Sale to aid not be built Toddler Group Freshbrook Parent & Toddler Group are holding a Jumble Sale at Freshbrook Community Centre on Saturday 7 October, 2p.m. Admission is lop; refreshments available.
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CA4 I77/Y1 Unisex Hair Salon
New to West SwindTon Cotorci[Eyebrow 6" Eyelash 'flitting also QottIwe([Colourants - Rcvitalise your hair colour at home with Cotourairts Colour Rjlfreshrer ec(usive to Cut ii' Dry 5re.sIthrookjl/'iu[age Centre • cmt. 873217
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Fears are growing that a primary school in Grange Park might not be built until the mid-1990's, if at all. A residents' campaign in 1988 persuaded Wiltshire County Council to change its proposal to build a school on a difficult to get to site at the end of King Henry Drive to a site owned by Bradley Homes off Hay Lane, more to the centre of Grange Park. The County Council and Bradley's cannot agree a price and the authority is planning to impose a Compulsory Purchase Order on the land. A CPO takes between two and three years to achieve and Freshbrook councillor Bob Pixton believes that the chances of success are slim. "To be successful, the County Council will have to prove there are no other suitable sites," said Coun. Pixton. "I imagine Bradley's will argue that the King Henry site is available and the county could loose. If they do, they'll have to go for that site and they might have to impose another CPO. Just imagine how long this is all going to take - 1995, never? I've written to the Chief Education Officer and there has been an ominous silence. "It's ironic to think that if Wiltshire County Council had decided to build a school in Grange Park in 1986 when they were planning Windmill Hill School to cater for demand, they could have taken out a CPO and have opened the school on the Hay Lane site this September.
Opera 80 comes to school
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Freshbrook School children having been 'having a go' at opera and will perform some of their work for parents on 3 October. For the second year running, the Opera 80 Education and Community Team have visited the school to work with children who would not normally encounter opera. "We don't go into school to perform 'potted versions of opera," said Education Officer Freda Lance. "The emphasis is definitely on participation, fun and breaking down barriers with the children". The team worked with four different groups of 9 to 11 year olds who worked out a storyline with their teachers. The ideas were worked through with a director, two singers and a pianist to be presented to parents in short performances.
Health Sessions could close
Special health advice sessions aimed at men and women who do not have children is likely to close down unless the people it's aimed at show more interest. The Health Drop-In which has been taking place at Freshbrook Community Centre twice a month are run by Health Visitors Jane Lyon and Janet Ascherson. They decided to set up the sessions so that adults, particularly those at work, can talk to health professionals about their health and well-being. So far very few people have turned up.
Janet Ascherson and Jane Lyon
"It's been disheartening to get such a minimal response," said Jane. "1 sometimes think that people don't feel responsible for their own health. If you get ill, you go to somebody to be treated. But you can take steps to prevent future illness." The Drop-In is very informal according to Janet Ascherson. "We talk to people about their weight, smoking, diet and anything else they might bring up. We have lots of printed literature and we can measure and weigh you to see how healthy you are." The Health Visitors are keen to extend their service to a wider population -if they're interested. People with children tend to have more direct access to the Health Visiting team but their brief takes in the whole community. Janet and Jane will be giving their Health Drop-In idea two more goes in October at Freshbrook Community Centre on Tuesdays 3rd and 17th October, between 5p.m. and 6.30p.m. to offer their advice and information.
Allan Barlow, Area Manager for Whitbread Severn Inns writes:
FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK New name chosen for The Cornflower
Whitbread Severn Inns were delighted with the response to the competition featured in the August edition of The Link to rename The Cornflower following major re-furbishment. From the many and varied suggestions for a new name to go with the new image, a winner has been selected and the pub will be re-christened 'The Windmill on its re-opening in early October. The competition winner is Pamela Melanophy of Wentworth Park, Freshbrook who suggested the name The Windmill because it is appropriate to the area, close to the windmill landmark and easy to say and remember.
Mrs Melanophy receives the prize of a meal for four at The Windmill and a dozen bottles of wine and will be invited to the opening ceremony of The Windmill on Monday 9 October. She is looking forward to being the first customer of the pub. The competition judges extend their thanks to everyone who participated in the contest and would like to give a special mention to Andrew Powles of Lineacre Close, Grange Park who gave them a light-hearted moment during the judging with his suggestion of "The Blue Dumper Truck". As Andrew says "no other
pub is called anything like it". Very true Andrew, very true.
Inspiration for anew name for The Cornflower at Windmill Hill Business Park
Hols for OAP club
Off for a bargain break Club member Win Rabbetts writes:
On 9 September we, the members of the Sunday Care Club started off for Barry Island. After all the luggage and wheel chairs were put aboard we were off for our weeks holiday. On arrival Millie, Mary and myself had a two bedroom chalet, after deciding who should sleep where, Millie and I shared a bedroom but it was bunk beds. Both Millie and I have arthritic knees and are getting on a bit, Millie is only four foot nothing so it looked like being me for the top. Millie decided to go looking for a step-stool but came back with a rather dishy male carrying a single bed. When he saw the bunk beds he took them away and brought another single bed. During the week we saw some lovely shows in the Theatre and we even went to The Pig and Whistle to see late night shows. Some nights we were out till past midnight, (me, whose always in bed by ten o'clock every night?) We had lovely walks along by the sea and found plenty to do and see. We all enjoyed it very much and hope to go again. Many grateful thanks to Sheila and Peter Leighfield who booked and arranged everything, not forgetting Ray Williams (what would we do without him?).
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Landscape Gardener in West Swindon 20 years of experience. Turfing, Paving, Fencing, Planting new Gardens Rockery Construction, Pergolas etc. Tel: 875174
HAIR CARE : IN THE COMFORT OF •; YOUR HOME
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LOSE YOUR EXCESS POUNDS WITH CAMBRIDGE DIET EXTRA Contact Your Counsellor Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on Swindon 873201
THE
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Ready to use Westlea Schools Soft Room with Neil Griffiths, from left to right, Leo Simpkins, Scott Taylor, Sabrina Sheikh, Christopher Ashton, Kimberley Moore
A unique room full of educational materials to develop manipulation and language skills is nearly ready at Westlea School. The room, which still needs a name, is the brainchild of headteacher Neil Griffiths who sees under fives from the playgroup next door, parents with rising fives and children with disabilities using the equipment and materials available. "We've financed the room with a donation from the PHH company, a grant from the West Swindon Fund for Children with Disabilities and school fundraising," said Mr Griffiths. "The high
qualityconstructional equipment will help develop manipulative skills and the large foam blocks will make a good environment for children with disabilities. "I see the playgroup using the room, groups of parents coming in to work with their children, and regular coffee mornings to encourage parents to use the room. The playgroup mums have done a great job by making 100 theme packs which can be borrowed for home use. "Once the room takes off we will see a focal point for parents in Westlea developing. The room is just a beginning."
Jo Soulsby from Westlea has spent the last two months in Zaire. Here he recounts his experience far from everyday British life
Chips and Chocolate are off Hotel Ibis, Delta Business Park Great Western Way, West Swindon Telephone: 514777
Come and try the selection of French, English and European dishes in our warm and friendly restaurant. You'll be delighted by the good quality and reasonable prices. Full a la carte menu and three course inclusive menu at £8.50. Children welcome. Family lunches on Sundays. Relax before and atter in our intimate bar lounge.
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Well not so much off but more unobtainable. That's the case in Nyankunde, North Zaire, where I've been working for the last two months (see JulyLink). I'd been selected by Tear Fund (a Christian Relief Agency) to lead one of their 11 Task Force Teams, which give Christians an opportunity to experience the lifestyle and work of relief works in developing countries. It certainly was an experience with a capital F. While I was there we worked together with a group of local villages clearing out streams, building steps and maintaining springs and well points. It was very satisfying to see that with just a little technology (and a lot of physical work) we could improve the quality of water for the villages and make it easier for them to fetch and carry it. Later we worked on the construction of two huge water tanks which were to be used to store and supply water to an agricultural project for the development of new crops and cultivation of trees.
Jo working one of the water tanks
Although the government of Zaire do not recognise it as a Christian country it was wonderful to see literally thousands of people who had accepted Jesus into their lives because of the love and example shown to them by missionary and relief workers. If you'd like to hear more about my adventure or the work of Tear Fund then please contact me - Jo Soulsby on 874138.
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YOUR MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENTS ARE TOO HIGH LET US HELP..... We are proud to announce a major link up with one of the four largest building societies In the U.K. regarding new low-start schemes for both mortgages and remortgages. The income multiples are higher than normal, and quotations are free, as is our advice. THIS IS NOT A DEFERRED INTEREST 'ROLL-UP' SCHEME WHERE YOU END UP OWING MORE MONEY THAN YOU STARTED WITH! With this Building Society loan you could use your equity to subsidise your payments in the early years. Using £5,000 of your equity you would be able to save £229 per month in the first year, e.g. on a mortgage of 945,000, you could reduce your monthly payment to £248.96 (interest only), a saving of £174 per month
This could take away any financial worries enabling you to look forward to a more stable way of life. There are no hidden clauses and you may like to find out how much tjou could save. If so, please ring either of the numbers below. Swindon 873369 (2 lines) or 827725. Appointed Representative of Cornhill Insurance Group, member of
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10 Harvest Festival
Holy Trinity Church, Shaw, is pleased to invite you to join us in our celebration of Harvest Festival, on Sunday 8 October. Our Family Service is at 10.30a.m. and Communion is at 6.30p.m. You will be most welcome at either or both services, to thank God for his goodness, see the new building, meet some friends and stay for a cuppa after the service. On Monday 9 October we will be holding our Harvest Auction, beginning at 7.30p.m. in the church. Do come and bid for rome harvest produce, in a friendly and informal atmosphere. The money raised will go to Care at Christmas, a charity which works to provide food, accommodation and entertainment for the homeless over the Christmas period.
Baptism meeting postponed The Baptism Presentation evening at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw which was to be held on Wednesday 18 October has now been changed to Tuesday 24 October, at 8.00p.m.,. The church apologise for any inconvenience caused. For information about thanksgiving and baptism services in the ecumenical parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards, please contact the appropriate member of the staff team, see page 31.
PRETTY LADY Bridal and Evening Gowns Made just for You Ring Angela on Swindon 872612
DISPENSING
SHAW VILLAGE CENTRE RAMLEAZE DRIVE SHAW TEL: 886076
(Miss D. Collet, B. Pharm.)
N.H.S. DISPENSING PREGNANCY TESTING PATIENT ADVICE & COUNSELLING OPENING TIMES Open: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9.00am. to 6.30p.m. Thursday 9.00a.m. to 5.30p.m. Saturday 9.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. Closed for Lunch 1.00p.m. to 2.00p.m.
Community Centre and bus routes discussed at residents meeting Mary Case reports:
The visit of Denis Onley from Thamesdown Borough Council attracted one of the largest audiences for some time to the September meeting of Shaw Residents Association. He gave avery informative talk about the possible future of a community centre and confirmed that the area between the Village Inn and Shaw Church was still zoned for such a facility. He said that public money was not currently available and the Council was looking at partnership development with the private sector. He gave assurances to the meeting that the site would not be lost if an arrangement with a private developer was not forthcoming. Parents from the playgroup which use the yellow hut near the doctors surgery off Ramleaze Drive raised a number of issues such as a permanent path to the hut, adequate car parking, adequate maintenance on the building. Mr Onley did his best to reassure the group that the welfare of the children using the hut and the long term life of the building was receiving attention. However he was reminded that the hut had already been repaired several times and that if the win-
ter was severe, once again the water pipes would freeze and the hut become unsafe. Residents from Nine Elms, Sandacre Road protested strongly about the No. 5 bus which had been re-routed into this quiet residential area. Between 8a.m. and 9a.m. six buses used the road and at other times four per hour. Councillor Tony Free has taken up the matter on their behalf and the Residents Association has also written to Thamesdown Transport. Concern was expressed by several residents about the general unkempt appearance of parts of Shaw. After some discussion it was decided that a representative from the Council be asked to attend the next meeting. Councillors Midwinter and Free have agreed to attend on Tuesday 17 October, in the New Shaw Church at 7.45p.m. If any resident has a question to put to either councillor, I would like to receive a written copy before the meeting. These questions will be given priority and others from the floor only allowed if time permits. Mary Case, Chairperson, Shaw Residents Association, 3 Randell Crescent, Shaw. Tel: 876133
Possible commercial tie-up for community building A new kind of community centre might be built at Shaw Village Centre according to an officer from Thamesdown Council's Community Development Division. Speaking at the Shaw Residents' Association (SRA) monthly meeting on 5 September, Community Centres Officer Denis Onley said that the Council was considering a partnership with a commercial developer in order to get a community centre built in the near future. The restrictions on localauthority spending mean that it will be difficult for the Borough Council to build a permanent community centre in the forseable future. At present prices, such buildings cost up to ÂŁ750,000. "We are looking at how a community facility can be built in partnership with a private developer, so that the empty space between the church and the pub can be built upon sooner rather than later. This means that the ground floor would have a number of rooms for community group use and the upper floors would be let for commercial purposes. The uses would have to be compatible so that they won't interfere with each other. The proposal does not contain a large hall
for functions; this would have to be built in a second phase on the remainder of the site." Mr Onley said that the Council has a commitment to consult with localpeople and more detailed plans would be brought to Shaw residents, if the proposals are developed. The thirty people at the Shaw residents meeting thought the broad principle of a joint development with the commercial sector acceptable and asked Mr Onley to keep the SRA in touch.
Getting in early for Christmas Shaw's Brookfield School is holding a Christmas Craft Fair Sunday 1 October 11a.m. - 4p.m. Lots of craft stalls Entry 20p includes a prize draw ticket.
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EDUCATION MATTERS Looking at the Ridgeway School Starting our fourpart photo tour of the secondary schools designated to take children from West Swindon
The Ridgeway School, situated to the south of Swindon in the village of Wroughton, expects from its pupils the highest standards of personal discipline and commitment. In return it offers a challenging curriculum and the opportunity of individual success. The School boasts good all round facilities, both in the classroom and in the wide range of sporting activities available to its pupils - a swimming pool, two squash courts, and a well equipped weight training room are just some of the opportunities on offer in the area of leisure. Although the School is at the forefront of modern educational
development, particularly in the areas of modular A and A/S level subjects, it still holds on to the traditional values of hard work and high expectations of both its staff and pupils. Over the years The Ridgeway School has enjoyed a high standard of examination success, and it continues to strive for even higher achievements from its pupils not only in educational terms but also in the area of personal development. The Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and a programme of Community work offer pupils opportunities to develop social skills and a caring attitudetowards the environment and the society in which they live.
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COULD YOU OPEN YOUR HOME AS WELL AS YOUR HEART?
Elizabeth Wood found there was more behind the covers than she bargained for
Walking through West Swindon Centre my eye was caught by an inviting display of books and an eager salesman. Upmarket novels, glossy nature books full of wonderful photographs, beautifully illustrated children's tales, were all there to browse through. By the time the salesman had finished his patter my daughter was half way through the latest Ronald Dahl and I was ready to sign on the dotted line. I got home, kicked off my shoes and settled down with a cup of coffee and a spare ten minutes to look through the catalogue that promised "Books for You and ALL your Family". Now! don't know about your family but! am prepared to admit that mine is a fairly mixed bunch with varied tastes, but I was still startled to find myself looking at two pages of lurid pictures of semi-naked ladies. There in the middle of this "Family Catalogue" were a few choice offerings for the muckyraincoats-and-bondage brigade! At this point in the article I suppose I should continue "Now I am not a prude, but..... Well I think perhaps Lam a prude about so-called 'soft' pornography. I don't like it and I don't need it. I also think it does a lot of damage to women in the way they are treated by men. What depresses me so much is the way it is creeping into so much of our everyday
lives- newspapers that have more female flesh than news in them; photographic magazines full of special features on 'glamour' photography; your local newsagent with sordid magazines ever-so-tastefully displayed on the top shelves; and your local video shop with its delightful 'adult' section. I know I'm not speaking for all women. Some don't object to 'naughty' magazines ("it's just a bit of harmless fun, isn't it?") and others are delighted when their daughters get on to Page Three ("I am thrilled that she can have such an exciting career"). But they are in the minority, as the advertising boys have discovered. I was amused to read that at this year's motor show the only stand that used women's bodies to attract customers was one selling trucks. The others played it straight not because of any attack of conscience. They've woken up to the fact that 30% of new cars are sold to women and they don't want to risk offending any of us. I tore up my membership form for the book club and wrote an angry letter to the chairman telling him just what! thought of his Family Catalogue. Of course he hasn't bothered to reply, but then perhaps he's too busy reading his products!
New members wanted to join womens' group
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The Women's Branch of the Toothill Women's Group is up Workers' Education Association and running again after a sum- is running a Saturday course for mer break and the present mem- women who want to find out more bers are looking for other women about the basics of maintaining a car. The course is run by women to join them. The group next meets on Fri- and only women will take part. It takes place on Saturday 14 day 13 October from 930a.m. to 11 .30a.m.inToothill Church. Free October between 10a.m. and child care is provided and a 50p 4p.m. at Toothill Farm, Bodiam charge is made for refreshments. Drive. The fee is £8.60 or £1 for Speakers and practical events those on a low income.
FOSTER PARENTS ARE NEEDED FOR MANY CHILDREN OF DIFFERENT AGES AND BACKGROUNDS. CAN YOUR FAMILY HELP? To find out more, contact Mike Thomas at the Fostering & Adoption Section, Social Services Department, Clarence House, Clarence Sfreet,Swindon. Tel: 31131
are being organised on colour coding, reflexology, the law as it relates to women, e.g. looking at benefits, rights at work, maternity rights, etc. The Women's Group will also be holding a social event every month and to make sure everyone can attend they will pay for babysitting for those who have difficulty in meeting the cost. Contact Gina Adams on 874135 or Lucie Hartley on 26161 ext.3092 for more details.
Get Assertive The WEA Women's Branch is also running an Assertiveness Training Course on Saturday 11 November between 10a.m. and 4p.m. at their office in Regent Street, Swindon. Cost is £4.80/ £1. Free child care will be available at both courses. To find out more or book a place, contact the WEA on 618233.
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UNDER FIVES Under Five's Forum set for re-launch Meeting on 12 October to bring under fives people together West Swindon's Under Five's Forum is going to be organising a range of interesting activities during the next year, and it wants a lot more people to be involved. The Forum first met two years ago and although afew meetings were organised, its main activity has been the organisation of two very successful under-fives festivals. One of the original aims was to bring parents and other people working with pre-school children to discuss problems and press for improvements in services and facilities. Over the winter, discussions are going to be organised on
Under Fives in Town and Country Reviewed by Sheila Boswell
The booklet by Peter Fanshawe gives an insight into the views and concerns of a variety of families. It does, however, present rather a depressing view for parents having to cope with such problems as poor quality housing and lack of local facilities for those living in isolated areas. The book covers a broad spectrum of topics based on actual surveys carried out in Wiltshire. The problems and a few benefits associated with raising young children are presented as statistics and individual portraits. Facts and actual cases are detailed to give a true picture of the care facilities provided, although the author expresses his personal opinions in some areas. Wide variations in the level of care facilities provided by any one region are apparent. In summary, a useful insight into the needs and problems facing young families, for community workers and people involved in running groups and facilities.
subjects like the safety of play areas, shopping with Under-fives, changing facilities for babies, childcare, health provision and help for families in crisis. The next meeting of the Forum takes place on Thursday 12 October, 8p.m. in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. The speaker will be Peter Fanshawe, a social worker with Wiltshire County Council, who has recently published a booklet called "Under 5's in Town & Country". it deals with parents views of services and facilities across the
Right: Jane Hillier presents the cheque (left) surrounded by group members.
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Sue Neill, secretary of Bumps and Babes has a few questions.
Are you pregnant for the first time (a bump)? Do you have your first child who is under twelve months old (a babe)? Do you live in West Swindon? If you have answered yes to two of the above questions you may be interested in joining our group. Bumps and Babes was started two years ago and aims to provide ultimately friendship, advice and support during pregnancy and mums first year with a new baby. We meet every Monday between 2p.m. and 4p.m. in the Community Suite, Link Centre. We chat over coffee, tea and biscuits. Taking time away from home and routine weekly whether a bump or babe is a welcome break. We had many different indoor and outdoor events throughout the year, many good fun. Why not come along to a coffee afternoon on Monday 9 October at 1p.m. and meet committee members for further information.
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Have you a bump or a babe?
Fun Day funds to PMH Shaw Ridge Parent and Toddler Group made a cheque presentation to the Special Care Baby Unit at Princess Margaret Hospital in August. The sum of £56 was raised at the Upper Shaw Farm Centre fun day held during the West Swindon Under 5's Festival in June. Receiving the cheque staff midwife Julie Brown said that small sums were always welcomed as they allowed the purchase of vital pieces of equipment. "At present the unit is buying syringe pumps which are used for the continuous feeding of premature babies. It's heartening that a small group like this is willing to fundraise for us."
county and gives comparisons with other European countries Mr Fanshawe's talk is sure to stimulate a discussion which will be of interest to all parents living in West Swindon and anybody who works with pre-school children in the area. The Under Five's Forum also hopes to organise a play workshop during the autumn and if more people have joined the group by spring, it will start thinking about next summer's festival.
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AT YOUR LIBRARY
14
A man joins the team For those regular customers who delight, in teasing me for my feminist persuasions, I am absolutely delighted to introduce our first male team member, Stephen McEntree. Stephen (pictured below) joined the staff as our fulltime assistant at the beginning of August and we are thrilled to have his support and skills to hand. Stephen has been with the library service since February working as a part-time assistant at Ramsbury library. Wishing to develop his skills in a busier and U
more demanding situation, we counted ourselves lucky when he expressed a wish to work at West Swindon. There is more to Stephen than meets the eye! When he is not working as a library assistant he uses his artistic talents to produce magical paintings for a voracious commercial market not just simple science fiction fantasy, the paintings are based on the writings of J.G. Ballard and explore a theme exam ining 'A Possible Tomorrow' or what Stephen calls 'Tomorrow's Legacy'. Many of the works have
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been printed and sold to the American market. We look forward to an exhibition of Mr Mclintee's work next year. As for working at West Swindon library, Stephen has found a massive difference in serving a large community after the relative peaceful existence of Ramsbury. He confesses our main desk is so busy that he has not really had time to get to know our customers well, and is looking forward to working with information enquiries and developing a greater personal contact. Finally look out for Stephen's wicked sense of humour - it's second to none! The library will be involved with 'Tools For Self Reliance' for the period 10 - 20 October. The display will show how old, discarded household tools can be renovated for use in third world countries. Please, please bring any old tools along to the library during October for this worthwhile campaign.
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West Swindon librarian Linda Black introduces Stephen McEntree and calls for your old gardening and building tools
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1. Hardy, Thomas: Wessex Heights (Bloomsbury) This really is a beautiful book - a selection of Hardy's best work is arranged to reveal the development of his style. Over 100 illustrations from many sources capture the beauty and harshness of his world - a pictorial presentation of the Wessex background upon which his characters enacted the drama of their lives. 2. Bain, John: The Two Farms (Hale) An evocative recollection of rural life after the Great War as seen through the eyes of a ten year old child. The daily routines of field and farmhouse, now a fading part of our national heritage, are described in detail. 3. Malone, Caroline: Avebury (Batsford) Over 100 maps, plans, reconstructions and photographs, as well as a suggested tour of Avebury sites. This is the complete companion to Avebury. 4. Aldrich, Bernard: The Ever Rolling Stream (Blandford) Bernard Aldrich, as river keeper on the Mountbatten estate at Broadlands has looked after one of the most beautiful and unspoiled chalk streams in England for over 30 years. His deep concern for the plants and animals of the riverside as well as his determination to improver the fish life for the anglers, is told with optimism and good humour. 5. Smallwood Imogen: A Child-
hood at Green Hedges (Methuen) Imogen Smallwood ,the younger daughter of Enid Blyton's two daughters has written a part of the story that was her childhood with her mother at the family home, Green Hedges in Beaconsfield - a fascinating insight into what life was really like for the Blyton family. 6. Secombe, Fred: How Green was my Curate (MIchael Joseph) Set in the sleepy Welsh valleys at the close of the second world war 'How Green was my Curate' is the warm and humorous memoirs of an ingenious young curate who finds himself placed in a community peopled with unforgettable characters. 7. Tryon, Aylmer. The Quiet Waters By (Witherby) The author is well known as a fly fisherman. These engaging stories of travels abroad (with rod packed!) and fishing at home are written with a very special turn of dry humour. 8. Feitwell, John: A Guide to Countryside Conservation (Ward Lock) Gives a thorough account of the state of Britain's natural world and suggests positive ways to maintain and improve our heritage. Practical advice is given on charting ancient hedgerows, creating wild meadows and installing bird boxes. 9. Sutton, Alan: Cotswold Images (Sutton) Vividly illustrates the unique richness of this region with a specially selected series of photographs from the best Cotswold photographers. 10. Mitford, Mazy Russell: Our Village (Sedgewick & Jackson) 'Our Village' one of the early nineteenth century's most delightful country classics, first appeared in 'The Lady's Magazine' in the 1820's and 30's. It is now reissued in book form embellished with nearly 200 magnificent colour illustrations
How do the other half live? You can get a pretty good Idea on Wednesday 25 October when West Swindon's Churches participate in One World Week. They're holding a special event called 'How the other half live' which Includes a video of life In poverty and a simulation game. The event takes place In St. Peter's Church Hall and tickets cost Cl; Concs. 50p. Contact Ian Schagen on 871093.
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DAY IN THE LIFE
16
Multiple-vision man Bill Bate from Grange Park runs Biliborard Television a new concept Leisure Screen Entertainment. But whilst others are being entertained he's working. I'm awakened at 5a.m. by little fast. Our three Siamese cats greet Lucy (9 weeks old) who is ready us with much meowing and then for the first feed of the day. Ju- they pop outside for a breath of dith (my wife) quietly takes her fresh morning air. It's Saturday, so there's no rush downstairs, taking care not to waken our other two children to get Jordan to school on time, (Jordan 6 and Joel 3) who are which is a task in itself After a quick cup of tea and a slice of thankfully still sound asleep. I doze off to sleep for about an toast I'm off to the office to start hour when Judith returns with another busy day. I arrive about 9.30a.m. feeling Lucy and puts her back down, now contented with a full turn. very glad that I've missed the The boys wake us again about early morning traffic; that's one 7.30a.m. when we all, except of the pleasures of having my Lucy, go downstairs for break- own business. I look in my diary
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to see what's planned for the day. It starts: - morning: "edit CocaCola presentation tape; afternoon: "Visit Link, Oxford & Basingstoke sites;" evening: "interview with Kid Jensen at Oxford Ice Rink." Ian and Russell (our film crew) are leaving to do some filming for a training film we are in the process of making for the construction industry. It's pouring with rain which will make filming very difficult to produce good picture quality, but the client wants this film finished, so they've gone prepared with umbrellas and plastic covers for the camera. Bob (my partner) and I spend the rest of the morning in the studio working on the "CocaCola" tape. We give up after two hours, having completed 3 minutes of film, unable to continue because we need computer captions which are programmed into the computer which only Ian can control. We decide to put it off until Monday, when we can complete it with Ian's know how! After lunch we head down to Basingstoke leisure centre. We recently installed a nine screen video wall on which we run our programmes. It's exactly the same as the one we installed in the Link Centre mall. Everything is running fine and being a Saturday afternoon there are lots of young people viewing, which is
thrilling for us. It's a wonderful feeling, standing in the background, unknown to the public, to see people enjoying the entertainment on the screens, entertainment that we have put together through hours of hard work. It's time to move on to Oxford Ice Rink where another of our entertainment systems is installed. We arrive about 7.30p.m. in time to set up our camera equipment, before the start of the evening's events. Usually Sandy Matin and Kate Hall accompany us on such occasions to do the star interviews, but both are tied up elsewhere tonight, so we have to find someone to fill in. One of the staff from the ice rink, Julie, does a wonderful job and the interview with Kid Jensen runs smoothly. It's 11.30p.m. now and we're still at Oxford. Cameras, cable, lights, tripods, etc. are all packed away and we come to the end of another eventful day. I now have a minute to think of my family, back in Swindon. It's too late to 'phone Judith now, who will have spent the day, as most, coping with our three beautiful children with the patience of a saint! I've missed them all, but I'm looking forward to tomorrow - Sunday the one day of the week I keep free to spend with my family.
Unique swimming awards Two students from Ridgeway School received special swimming awards at an assembly at Shaw Ridge School on 15 September. Emma Moon and Stuart Holmes from Ramleaze achieved Personal Survival Honours Award during their last term at Shaw Ridge and returned to receive their badges from headteacher Keith Burke (pictured right).
Mr Burke described what Emma and Stuart had done at an assembly of the whole school as a 'tremendous achievement'. "Veryfewpeople have received this award. Very few people could actually gain it. We're all thrilled with the effort." Ten younger pupils at Shaw Ridge School received swimming awards at the assembly.
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ARTS SCENE
18
A family half-term treat at the Wyvern
Guitar Tuition
There's going to be Fun, Magic, Music and lots of Audience Participation at the Swindon's Wyvern Theatre during half-term. Rupert, Britain's most famous and best loved bear, is coming to town in an all new show entitled Rupert and the Magic Castle. It's a story about the day when Rupert and his Nutwood friends discover a Magic Castle whilst wandering deep inside Nutwoo. During their exciting adventure, they discover who lives in the castle and the magical secrets it hides. There are lots of surprises with the audience taking part along the way. Rupert is staying in Swindon for
1 to 1 Tuition by Professional Guitar Tutor Beginners to Diploma Standard Contact Bernard Tanner The Shaftesbury Centre Percy Street (off Rodbourne Road)
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BOX OFFICE
(0793)524481
A,t'F BOROUGH OF
THAMESOOWN
S.
October at Link Arts Studio
just one day on Thursday 26 October and there are two chances to see him and his friends at 130p.m. and Tuesday 3rd at 8.00p.m. 3.45p.m. Book now for this special The Wyvern Theatre Workshop Co treat at the Wyvern. presents 'SORRY FOR THAT MAD DAY'. Researched and written by It's Panto time soon director Catherine Halder and the The Wyvern Theatre's Christmas company, the play portrays the draPantomime will be a panto like matic events surrounding the murder committed in September in 1903 you've never seen before. Bigger, better and brighter than at the Ship Hotel, Swindon, when ever before, this year's show barmaid Hettie Swinford was shot Mother Goose stars Adam by her fiancee, Richard Palmer. TickWoodyatt, taking a break from ets £2.00/ concessions £1.50. Thursday 5th at 730p.m. his Ian Beale role in EastEnders, Link Arts Film Society presents and eminent pantomime dame MAPANTSULA (15). Filmed in Chris Harris. Terry Hall and Soweto under the noses of the auLenny The Lion, Pollyann Tan- thorities, this film actually deals with ner and radio Dl's Bob Harrison the black experience under apartheid and Sandy Martin plus the Mol- in South Africa, with the vivid feellie Tanner Dancers will make the ing of life on the streets played over a Panto a winner. soundtrack of township jive. Friday 6th at 8.00p.m. Swindon Jazz Front presents TREVOR WATTS DRUM ORCHESTRA. A vibrant fusion of European improvisation and African rhythm. Tickets £5.00/members £4.50/unwaged £5.00. Saturday 7th at 8.00p.m. Dark Knight Promotions presents VALLEY OF THE DOLLS. Saturday 14th at 8.00p.m. Swindon Rock Front presents THE MORRIGAN plus PLANET EARTH Tickets £2.50/2.00 concessions. Thursday 19th at 7.30p.m. Link Arts Film Society presents VIRGIN (36 FILLE1TE) (18). A remarkable film directed by Catherine Breillat which deals with the sensitive Adam Woodyatt and Pollyann issue of a girl's coming of age. SubTanner visited MacDonalds who titled. will be offering vouchers for french Friday 20th at 8.00p.m. fries in the Panto programme RED JASPER in concert. As a sideline the story goes Saturday 21st at 8.00p.m. something like this. When poor Women and Theatre present PUTold Mother Goose (Chris Harris) TING IT ABOUT. A play set in 1992, can't afford to pay the rent it when people with the HIV virus are seems as if she and her son, Billy put in 'hotels' under Government (Adam Woodyatt), will be thrown supervision. Seen from the female perspective, the issue of HIV, AIDS out on the street. But luck is on their side when and the accompanying myths are explored and addressed, with paPriscilla the goose starts to lay thos and humour. Tickets £3.50/ golden eggs and soon the family £2.50 concessions. make its fortune! However rich Friday 27th at 8.00p.m. shebecomes MotherGoose is still Swindon Jazz Society presents THE ugly and when the wicked De- ORIGINAL BRUCE TURNER JUMP mon promises her outstanding BAND. Tickets f4.00/.00 concesbeauty in exchange for Priscilla, sions she agrees. But Mother Goose Saturday 28th at 230p.m. soon discovers that beauty is not Link Arts Children's Film Club preseverything and cannot bring her ents THE MOUSE AND HIS CHILD (U). A full length cartoon feature for happiness. So, Mother Goose, Billy and children aged 3-i-. his girlfriend Jill set off on the Saturday 28th at 8.00p.m. dangerous journey to Gooseland, Swindon Rock Front presents and with the help of King Gander SHRINK and LIVES & TIMES. Tick(played by both DJ's!) they find ets £2.50/E2.00 concessions Priscilla the Goose and the De- Tickets for all events are available from Link Centre reception. mon's plans are thwarted! No doubt the story will stray FILM PRICES: Film Society £1.75/ from time to time from the agreed £1.25 concessions plus £1.00 memscript, but that's pantomime isn't bership; Childrens Film Club £1.00 it? Book now by calling the plus 25p membership. Wyvern box office, tel: 524481.
RECREATION Ice Scream!!!
New ice professional for Link rink After a couple of years without an Ice Dance professional, the Link Centre has secured the services of Alan Seabrook (pictured right) who has moved from Bournemouth ice rink. Alan was taught by the coaches who eventually took Torville and Dean to world fame and has skated all over Europe, in Russia and the USA. As an Ice Dance specialist he is looking to build up a team that can represent Swindon. "I'm very impressed by the facilities provided by Thamesdown Council in the town. There are tremendous opportunities for dance to take off. Ice dance is something that the whole family can do; there's no age limit." Alan, his wife, two teenage sons andtheir two year old foster child will soon be moving to Shaw. Whilst not teaching dancers, Alan and his wife have opened their family to 32 foster children over the last ten years.
Halloween fast approaches and the powers of darkness are stirring at Link Ice Rink. Come and join the ghosts and goblins for a supernatural time at our special spooky sessions!! Sunday 29 October Disco Session 8p.m.-10p.m., adults £1.60, conc. £1.30. Tuesday 30 October Family Session 7.30p.m.-10p.m., adults £2.00, conc. £1.60. For further details on activities in the rink, please telephone There will be massed baa-ing at Southleaze Sheep Farm in early 871212. October as 25 ewes bear their offspring. And they all need West Swindon feeding by hand. Youth Football Some 7,000 people have visA youth football team has started ited the farm this year and many the search for success in a new more are expected after the latest league. crop of lambs are born. Visitors West Swindon Football Club are able to feed the lambs with under 15's team came top of its milk from a bottle and are able to division in the Minor's League see sheep being milked from last season and were promoted Thursday to Monday between into the Swindon and District 2.30p.m. and 5.30p.m. There are League under 16's section. also rabbits and guinea pigs on Sponsored by Royal Mail Par- view. cels, the team has sixteen players Southleaze Farm can be on the squad. Anybody under 16 reached by turning right by who would like to try out with Comet Electrical off the Manningthe team should contact Bob ton roundabout. There is a small Bailey on 824703. entry charge to visitors but school parties are free. For more inforParcels Express Neil Matthews mation telephone Stuart Bell on going for goal in the first game of 523134. the season which West Swindon
Lambs galore
won 7-1 against Brunel Rooms
19 Autumn Course bookings at Link Centre Archery, squash, yoga, climbing, trampolining, toddler bounce, short-tennis, swimming and basketball are Just a few of the activities available at Link Centre for both adults and children. Application forms and further details are available from Link Centre main reception now. Application forms may be submitted during the period: 1 October - 10 October, and bookings may be made over the counter, in person from 15 October.
— P Stevensi(Elect1I ric -411) Electrical Contractor & Engineer Domestic, Commercial & Industrial Installations Fire Alarm Installations 24 hour, 7 days a week call out service 'No job too big •No job too small
Special offer on all new shower installations this month. Ring now for free survey -Quality work Guaranteed 'Competitive rates Tel: Swindon 870948 Swindon Health Promotion Unit
WOMEN & THEATRE
Sf,,
Rosemary Ogle and Stuart Bell keep the guzzling lambs satisfied
ABOUT A, Is It R,,-w to, BOROSJGA, OF THAMESOOWN
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Saturday 21st October, 8p.m. £3.50; £2.50 Concessions Box Office: (0793) 871212 ext 227 Link Arts BrmnYhons City Costnsll %Vhitehill 'Way, 'Westlea
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APTS 4 WEST
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FUNDED
Save & Re-cycle
It makes Sense
Recycling time for a rethink! -
by David Searby, Co-ordinator of Swindon Friends of the Earth
Future archaeologists will have no trouble identifying the late 20th century they will just dig down until they find the rubbish! In Britain alone we produce 20 million tons of domestic waste a year. Half of this could be recycled with huge benefits. For example the British Paper and Board Industry Federation have estimated that we could save&400 million annually by using recycled paper instead of buying wood pulp. Also every tonne of broken glass used to make new glass saves the energy equivalent of 150 litres of oil. Presently 90% of our waste is landfilled causing many problems. It is expensive and space for landfill is running out. Leachate from landfill sites poisons the soil and much of the waste, especially plastic, will
never decompose. Swindon F.O.E. supports the provision of bottle banks and other facilities, but we believe that recycling should be incorporated into the ordinary rubbish collection round. 'Separation at Source' recycling as this is known, in commonplace on the continent. We ran a three month trial scheme of this sort in Old Town in the Spring. Using one van and five volunteers each Saturday we collected 32 tonnes of 'rubbish' for recycling. We believe that The Friends of the Earth volunteers who collected 32 tonnes of Thamesdown Borough Council recyclable waste in Old Town earlier this year should now continue with such a scheme. Take out an account However recycling is not a Look at the at a Bottle Bank panacea. Much of our waste, rubbish around especially plastic, is very difficult It might be surprising but meltOU to recycle. Instead of recycling ing down old glass and making bottles it would be far more sen- First there was NIMBY, not in into new glass products uses less sible to return and reuse them. my back-yard, now there's energy than making glass from CUYBY, Clean Up Your Back- the raw materials. However it does require consumers to save Save paper, Save trees, Make money Yard. Thamesdown Council has glass jars and bottles for re-cyCommunity groups in West Swindon have the chance to raise money for been running a scheme for some cling in the first place. their activities by doing something for the environment. It costs nothing Between ten and fifteen tons of time where groups of residents except some effort from group members. Thamesdown Council has a large covered skip suitable for collecting or community groups are given glass is collected from bottle paper and on the third Saturday of every month, its available to be sited in a skip for a weekend so that they banks across Thamesdown each can clean up their neighbour- week, a fraction of what could be the Stokesay Drive car park at Toothill Village Centre at no charge. All the community group members have to do is organise the publicity and hood. There is no charge for the re-used. In West Swindon the encourage people to bring their collected paper to the village centre where skip and the Council will also lor.g established bottle bank sited somebody should be available to supervise the skip. The council will also donate plastic bags for rubbish at Toothill Village Centre has been provide free publicity material. returning a paltry half a ton. The to be collected in. The waste paper merchant collects the skip on the following Monday and Examples of clean up projects total will go up as more people the money for the paper collected is sent directlo the group. At £10 a ton for recycled paper, a community group could raise £50 to £60 for very little effort. are cleaning up dumped rubbish become aware of the bottle bank and litter from an open space, a containers at Freshbrook Village To book the community paper skip telephone 26161 ext. 3519. small copse, village centre or Centre and the West Swindon around a school, but it has to be Centre car park b. Jeremy Freeth of Thamesdown for community benefit. Skips will not be made available at Glass Re-Cycling, which collects mini-civic amenity sites for the the glass, is optimistic that the collection of household, garden total amounts saved for re-use or builders refuse. The re-cy- will rise. "More people are becling centre at Barnfield Road is coming aware of re-cycling glass and as it's cheaper than using available for such waste. David Bristow at Thamesraw materials it makes sense. So What's all the fuss about? down is keen to hear from resi- I would encourage people to take dents who want to run a commu- their glass jars and bottles to the nity clean-up. He can be con- bottle bank containers. You keep tacted on 26161 ext.3519. filling them and we'll keep emptying them." -
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Public Meeting
L~~@
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The Quality of Water Safe in "their" hands?? 19 October 8.00p.m.
Savemake Social Hall Savernake Street off Eastcott Hill, Swindon
Speaker: Blake Lee-Harwood National Water Campaigner for Friends of the Earth (The expert!!)
All welcome, Admission free Further details from Neil Buick, Friends of the Earth, on 39977
Below: The Bottle Bank at Freshbrook, one of three in West Swindon
Green endencies Swindon Friends of the Earth co-ordinator David Searby suggests how you could become a greener consumer
Green Consumerism - Products that don't cost the Earth The recent success of CFC free aerosols and unleaded petrol has highlighted the emergence of a new type of shopper - the Green Consumer. Here are some ways in which we can help the environment by choosing the right products.
Nowadays there doesn't seem to be a week that passes without a food scare report on the television news. Sometimes it must seem that salmonella or listeria is lurking in the chickens or packets of processed food staring at you out of the supermarket freezer cabinet. The number of serious, reported food poisoning incidents compared with the enormous consumption of animal based food products is small, but the publicity about what we eat has made many more people more conscious about the quality of food. And it's encouraging many to consider a change of diet. Swindon Pulse in Curtis Street has pioneered the chance for Swindon people to buy food which is completely free of animal products, chemicals or additives. They have also been at the forefront of trying to promote a simpler, cleaner diet to local people. Pulse started as a co-operative eleven years ago in the back of a Morris Minor van which delivered small quantities of wholefoods to its small band of loyal customers aroundthetown. Asthedemand for the type of food they supplied grew, the co-operative moved into a shop which allowed it to supply a wider range of goods. Nowadays the Swindon Pulse Co-operative is composed of six people who share the running of the shop which includes serving the customers, packaging dry goods from large sacks purchased from wholesalers into small packets suitable for the individual, and generally running a small business. The way the business is run is just as important as the goods it sells according to co-op member Jess Halsall. "We are very careful about what we decide to sell in the shop. Nothing has the product of dead animals, the cheese
• Avoid Tropical Hardwoods, especially Mahogany and most Teak. Rainforests help stabilize the climate and are home to a diverse range of wildlife. Many modern drugs were discovered in rainforest areas. Britain is the largest importer of sawn tropical timber in Europe. 95% of this wood comes from badly managed unsustainable sources. Despite frequent denials the hamburger industry has been heavily implicated in destructive cattle ranching projects in South America. Therefore most green kitchens are 'burger-free'
• Buy organic fruit and vegetables Food grown without artificial fertilizers and pesticides is better for us and the earth as well. Even if you cannot afford organic produce all the time, buying a little will encourage organic farming and bring down prices. • Buy recycled, unbleached paper Recycling our waste paper is all very well, but to really save trees we need to create demand for recycled products. Most brown envelopes are made from recycled paper.
• Buy free range eggs Free range hens have access to the open air and vegetation. These methods are far less cruel than battery farming. • Buy phosphate-free washing powder. The phosphates in washing powder can cause pollution. For more information, consult The Green Consumer Guide' by Elkington and Hailes or 'Home Ecology' by Karen Christensen Happy Green Shopping!
If you are interested in joining Friends of the Earth, please send an S.A.E. to: Jo Stehie, Membership Secretary, Swindon FOE, 55 Walcot Road, Swindon. served. Talking to the customers
and giving advice is important to Promoting a cleaner, simpler diet the members of the Pulse co-op. "There are many myths about wholefood which makes it daunting for people to try them," said Pete Turnbull. "It does require some effort and maybe some getting use to. But we're able to advise customers how to prepare different foods and recommend cookery books. "We think that many people want to try but perhaps lack the confidence to have a go. People need to take time out of their busy lives to consider how they are feeding themselves and their families. We're hereto helpthem." Pete Turnbull and Jess Ha/sail, in front of the vast selection of spices and herbs to be found in Swindon Pulse uses vegetable rennet, the dried the environment. If you ask for a fruit hasn't been sprayed with carrier bag for your shopping, it will probably be a 'recycled' one mineral oils. "Swindon Pulse has the big- and have the name of chain store gest range of dry goods and or- printed on it. The food scares over the last ganically grown fruit and vegetables in the town. We also sell a year has seen large numbers of wide range of spices, guaranteed people discovering Swindon free range eggs, fresh bread and Pulse for the first time. "People have been coming here snacks." Fellow co-op member Pete who have lost faith in convenTurnbull says thatthe people who ience foods; some are almost produce the food Swindon Pulse hysterical with worry," said Jess. sells are also important to them. "What we can offer is the chance "One of our principles is not to to eat plainer, more simple foods exploit people or the world we live which are free of additives and in. For example, we don't buy tea less harmful to the body. "We would argue that it's not from the major suppliers because of the way tea pickers are treated more expensive to buy wholein Ceylon. If possible we pur- foods if you compare the food chase food from organisations value in what you buy. A great which ensure that workers in the deal of what you pay in the superThird World get a fair wage for market goes on processing, protheir labour. Coffee from Nicara- motion and packaging which is harmful to the environment." gua is a good example." Visiting Swindon Pulse is a bit Re-cycling and being environmentally friendly is another prin- like how you might imagine a ciple which the co-operative rests corner shop was in the old days'. on. Long before the big super- There are people to serve you markets joined the bandwagon, personally, the goods are disSwindon Pulse sold bio-de- played in plain wrappers and you gradable washing powders and can actually smell the spices and liquids because they don't harm fresh bread as you wait to be
What's on at Lower Shaw Farm That ramshackle happy little oasis of peacocks, pallets, chickens and children off Old Shaw Lane offers the following weekend activities and courses for this Autumn and winter. 13 -15 Oct Woodwork Weekend Make something big, like a bed; or small, like a toy - or anything you like. Expert tuition. 13 -15 Oct Spinning Weekend Learn how to card and spin raw wool into yarn ready to knit and weave. 20-22 Oct Shiatsu and Tai Chi Relax and flow in a circle, in dance. 10 -12 Nov Womens' Wellbeing Tired, run down, under-valued, under stress? Fed up with the fast lane and the power dressing? Come and reflect and be revitalised. 17-19 Nov Writers Breakaway Poetry, prose, guidance, inspiration and companionship. 1 -3 Dec Music and Games Melody, merriment and the unpredictable. Charges for the above vary from £25 to £40 (bursaries for people on low income). Please ring or write, with SAE, for full details, complete programme and booking form to: Lower Shaw Farm, Old Shaw Lane, Swindon SN5 9PJ. Tel: (0793) 771080.
22 Sale of baby equipment and toys Saturday 7 October 11a.m. -12 noon Community Suite Link Centre.
NEWS & VIEWS Pizzarama helps Lollipops Wartime Shaw's Lollipops Parent and "We're always have to replace Memories Toddler Group was recently pre- toys and this donation will go
Tom Wilson of Lombard Close, Toothill writes: I'm sure there are members of the Your goods sold for a 25% oldergeneration who have memocommis-slon to N.C.T. Funds ries of incidents, that happened For further details ring during the Second World War. Some may have put them down Chris Whitfield on 29599 on paper or would like to. Organised by Swindon Mel Jones, the Link Arts OffiBranch of the National cer, with the help of a local writChildbirth Trust ers' group wishes to put together and publish a collection of individual stories, of incidents rememAutumn Fair bered, terrifying, humourous, or Saturday 21 October romantic. 2pm - 4pm Anyone who would care to atUpper Shaw Community tend a preliminary meeting in OcCentre, Shaw Ridge tober, to discuss this interesting Tombola, Jumble, subject, please send their name, Cakes, Books. address and telephone number, Tables for hire at ÂŁ5. to Mel Jones, Arts Co-ordinator at the Link Centre, or telephone him Call Anita on 874215. Proceeeds to Shaw Ridge on 871212. He will contact you Parent & Toddler Group with a date and times.
sented with a cheque of E50 courtesy of the Pizzarama take-away at Shaw Village Centre. The group which meets in Holy Trinity Church three sessions a week made an appeal to business for help earlier this year and ÂŁ100 was raised in donations. Sandra Freeman, manager of Pizzarama, said the shop was pleased to support a local group. Group organiser Greta Hodkin said Lollipops had 90 families on its books and a waiting list.
towards a mini-climbing frame for the children. We'reverygrateful to Pizzarama and its customers for helping out." There will be numberof places in Lollipops towards the end of the year. To find out more about the group, telephone Greta Hodkin on 854892. Lollipop line up below: Greta Hodkin, right, receives a cheque from Pizza ra ma manager Sand raFree man with help from Kath Grey
Lost and Found at Lower Shaw Farm Matt Holland writes: Early this summer a boy playing in the barn lost a ring and when, despite our help, couldn't find It said, "My mum'll kill me" and went home with his tail between his legs. - A few days later a friend gave us a metal detector and its first job was to look for the ring In the straw barn. Looking for a needle in a haystack was no problem to modern technology. Within a few minutes the ring was found and now sits safe in our office waiting for its rightful owner to come and claim it, if his mother hasn't killed him. So, mother and son, If you read this, your silver ring with letters "C" and "W" on it is waiting for you 011
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Does the behaviour of your child leave you exhausted? What about your sleep? And what do you feed them? Do children really learn when they play? Kids Clinic is designed to help parents find some answers to these and other questions. Although answers may not always be found, talking to other parents and hearing how other people have coped can help you deal with the familiar problems parents come across. Health Visitors Jane Lee and Sue York run Kids Clinic which is aimed at parents, there's free childcare for the under fives. It runs on Thursdays, 1.30p.m. to 2.30p.m. in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, from 12 October for six weeks. Kids Clinic is free and all are welcome to attend whichever sessions they are interOFF-THE-RECORD ested in. Tea/coffee cost 20p. NEEDS YOU The October meetings are If you are interested in 12th "Tied to your apron strings?" A talk by a Child Behaviour voluntary work with young Expert people why not contact us on 19th "Oh! for a good nights sleep!" Swindon 612969 for more 26th "What shall I give them to information. eat?" - Dietician
23
NEWS & VIEWS Christmas season entertainment There's great entertainment lined up by Curtain Call Travel for Christmas and the New Year. And as an exclusive for pensioners, Curtain Call have organised a Christmas lunch and a show with travel included. Curtain Call specialise in arranging coach parties from Swindon to all the top West End shows and are the local booking agents for Savvas Night Club, near Chepstow, which was voted Britain's top night club in 1987/88. There are just a few tickets left to catch the latest hit Miss Saigon on 19 October and there's a last chance to see Singing In The Rain. In December there's a coach trip to Starlight Express, whilst bookings are being taken for Cats and
Aspects of Love next year. All the London excursions include tickets, booking fee and return coach travel from West Swindon. At Savvas you can catch a comedians Hale & Pace, Cannon & Ball and Lenny Henry, all with their own shows. In the music line The Hollies, The Supremes, the Rocking Berries, David Essex and Michael Barrymore will be performing through to next March. All these shows include return travel and a 3 course meal. Near Christmas there's a special outing for pensioners which includes a three course lunch and entertainment from The Platters. Book now for any of Curtain Call Travel's trips by ringing 740817.
After School drama fun at Link Arts An exciting new after school kids activity Is being offered by Link Arts. From 3 October every Tuesday between 4.00p.m. and 6.00p.m., a mixed art and drama workshop is being organised by local art workers Richard White and Yonal Nitzan. The group will be working on a variety of fun-filled and interesting projects that draws on both art and drama techniques. The cost will be £1.50 per session. The age range 188 to 12 years old. Places will be
limited to 20, so get in the queue and NO PUSHING IN!!
Ian offers childrens puppet shows
Cabaret Evenings & London Theatre Excursions Special Xmas Lunch Cabarets for Senior Citizens at Sawas Night Club, Usk Theatre Excursions The new musical £36 MISS SAIGON, evening Last chance to see 11 Nov SINGING IN THE RAIN £21 free time in London, matinee perf. STARLIGHT EXPRESS £24 9 Dec matinee, Dress Circle CATS, matinee, Stall seats £33/29.50 31 March ASPECT OF LOVE, £36 23 June ASPECT OF LOVE £36 21 July evening, a few Stall seats left All London theatre excursions include return coach, tickets, booking fee. 19 Oct
Savvas Club Excursions
Local caterers set up new business Have you got a family occasion to organise in the future? If so, why not let someone else do the organising for you? Appetisers, a new catering venture run by two young Swindon women, plan to supply a buffet service ranging from a basic finger buffet to a larger celebration for those special occasions. Christenings, weddings, anniversaries and all family celebrations are a speciality. They will also quote for block fixed prices and will be delighted to discuss any personal touches that you require. Menus are also available for children's parties, vegetarian buffets and any specific themes you require. The venture is the idea of Julie, a former restaurant manageress who is fully qualified in the catering business and has many years experience. For quotations, or to discuss your particular party requirements contact Julie on 887072 or Tania on 726607.
• CURTAIN CALL TRAVEL
Ian Moorehouse ready for performances
A youngster in Toothill is offering his services as a puppeteer to children's party organisers. Ian Moorhouse from Kirkstall Close has number of self-penned scripts and will even write a story to suit the party. "I've been in a few shows at the Wyvern. When I was given a puppet for Christmas I decided to perform puppet shows for children." Ian can adjust his scripts to the length of the party and can tailor it to mention a child's name or a special event. He has performed for local primary schools and several parties. Ian is taking bookings for the Autumn and his Christmas panto will be Cinderalla. Bookings can be made with Ian on 610079.
(Voted Night Club of Gt. Britain 1987/88) The Hollies 13 Oct Hale and Pace 28 Oct 1 Dec Cannon & Ball The Supremes & Brian Conley 8 Dec Hale & Pace 14 Dec The Platters 15 Dec Platters & Rocking Berries 22/23 Dec New Years Eve Platters & Rocking Berries David Essex 12/13 Jan Lenny Henry 26/27 Jan Michael Barrymore 31 March
£27 £24 £25 £26 £23 £24 £27 £35 £26 £24 £27
Special Xmas Senior Citizens Lunch Cabaret Return coach from Swindon, 3 course turkey lunch, cabaret with The Platters for Senior Citizens only. Departing 17/18/19/20/21 December. £12 All Sawas evening excursions include return coach, 3 course meal and full supporting show. Private parties catered for, quotations on request
For Reservations/Quotations telephone Curtain Call on Swindon 740817
POLICING WEST SWINDON The completion of West Swindon's Police Station cannot come too soon for the man in charge of day to day police operations in the area. Sitting in a cramped office Superintendent Eric Tweddle, who heads the Swindon North sub-division, is well aware that Swindon Police Station was built at a time when the town was much smaller, when there was no development to the west. He's been arguing for more police officers to cover his sub-division which also covers Mordon, Haydon Wick, Pinehurst and Penhill, and
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With agreement by Wiltshire Police Committee to build a police stationi n West Swindon, The Link interviewed the officer in charge of police operations in the area to get a picture of the service provided to the community made his point clearly to the Home Secretary in May. "Although the town has expanded massively, manning levels have not kept up with the growth," said Supt. Tweddle. "For example, in 1984 the population in West Swindon was 17,000; in 1989 it's around 30,000. That's nearly double the number of people. "Recently I was given an increase in establishment of six officers to make a total of 13 available to cover the area. Compare that with Trowbridge where there are 34 P.C.s to cover a population similar to that in the West." After Swindon itself with 137,000 people and S&isbury with a population of 38,500, West Swindon is the third largest concentration of people in the County. But although the crime rate is the fifth highest in Wiltshire, it remains stable. In 1987 there were 1,137 reported crimes. In 1988, there were 1,103 and in the first quarter of this year, there were 233. These
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Supt. Tweddle in front of the map used to try and persuade the Home Secretary that the town needs more policemen
figures include criminal offences which are recorded, but do not include minor public order and domestic incidents or drunkenness. For the purposes of the statistics, the crimes include burglary, wounding, assaults, criminal damage, theft of or from cars, vandalism and indecency offences. Although the crime figures are stable, the workload upon the police officers covering West Swindon has increased by 25% according to Supt. Tweddle. "The
Thin cover at times The deployment of Police Constables covering the West was reorganised in March. In theory there are fives officers covering five beat areas, these being Toothill, Freshbrook & Grange Park, the West Swindon Centre & Link Centre, the various parts of Shaw and Sparcells. There is also an officer in a car ready to provide back-up, whilst assistance from the Traffic Division, C.I.D., dog handlers and constables from other parts of town can be called for. But with court appearances, duties at special occasions in other parts of the county or big events In Swindon and Jeave to be taken, the actual cover from the police force is sometimes very thin. The only thing is, most people are not aware of it
Go-ahead for police station Wiltshire police committee has approved the building of a long awaited police station to serve the west and north of Swindon. Construction and fitting out costs will amount to £4.4 million for a 2.95 acre site on Mead Way, adjacent to the fire station presently under construction. Building work should start next year and be completed in 1993.
very fact that there are so many people living in what is a concentrated area makes more work. There are complaints about parking, unsociable behaviour, enquires from other forces and a host of other demands when police assistance and attendance is required. "It must be to the credit of the people living in West Swindon that we haven't seen an escalation of crime and anti-social behaviour. Most of the offences are committed by a minority of people, whilst the majority are law abiding individuals who are supportive of the police. "However, the residents can do more to help themselves. There are only 13 Neighbourhood Watch schemes in the whole of West Swindon. There must be scope for at least 100. I'll admit I was sceptical when they first started a few years ago, but they have succeeded in keeping crime levels down elsewhere and I'm convinced about their effectiveness now. It needs people to get together and to talk about how they can help each other. It makes sense to keep an eye out for each others property and safety. "I would like to say, 'yes you have a police officer patrolling close-by round theclock365days a year,' but I can't. Our budget just does not allow for anything like the cover we want to give. So we rely on public cooperation and people getting involved in Neighbourhood Watch Schemes. But I can say that the new local station will make it more convenient for West Swindon people to be in contact with the police. "My goal is to make the subdivision a better place for people to live in. I'm keen to receive comments of feedback from readers and I'm willing to meet people if invited"
25
NEWS & VIEWS Parents evening at local Refurbish Air Training Corps - 6 October West Swindon's Greendown Detached Flight of 1244 Squadron Air Training Corps (ATC) is holding an evening for parents/recruits on Friday 6 October. Cadets will be doing practical work, there will be a chance to talk to the staff and on show will be a video of the Greendown ATC activities. The Greendown Flight was established two years ago and now caters for 28 young men and women aged 13 to 20 years of age. The aim of the parents evening on 6 October is to attract new recruits to a youth group which undertakes a wide range of activities according to Flying Officer Harris who commands the Flight. "As a service youth organisation, we undertake a range of activities which can lead the young people towards joining the Royal Air Force, or will prepare them for life in other fields of work. "The youngsters learn about flying, navigation, space travel, engines, map reading, gliding, survival in difficult terrain, shooting a variety of weapons and our close links with RAF Lyneham
means that there are plenty of chances to fly and find out what goes on in the service. To join the RAF, it's not a requirement to have been an ATC cadet but we are able to guide and advise somebody who thinks he or she wants to apply." However Flying Officer Harris is keen to stress that the ATC have wide aims. "In the last two years the cadets have been rock climbing, orienteering, sub-aqua diving, learning judo, fencing and been on some arduous expeditions. Our aim is to give them a taste of a wide range of opportunities. For those who are not looking to the RAF as a career, we are interested in making them good citizens, developing their leadership qualities and bringing out the potential in all of them. "The open evening for parents and their children is a chance to see how we work and what the newcomers can expect to do. It will be a good chance to find out what the Air Training Corps is all about." To find out more about the Greendown Flight, contact Flying Officer Harris on 617396.
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The Oliver Tomkins Playgroup appealed in The Link about fifteen months ago for older people to come in and work with pre-school children. Judy Sturgess and Gwen Evans came forward and are happily involved, but the group is still searching for a man. Playgroup supervisor Jenny Woodman is enthusiastic about older people volunteering their time and energy. "There are so many young families in West Swindon who live far away from older relations. The influence of grandparents can be important in the way children develop. Gwen and Judy tell stories, do craft work, listen to the children's stories, in fact everything the playleaders do. The children always go to them first if they are distressed about something. They're marvellous." Judy, from Grange Park, jumped at the chance of helping in the playgroup. "I was looking for something to do which fitted around my two mentally handicapped daughters who visit centres during the day. I'm not a granny, but I'm an older person and the children seem to like that. They're always telling me about what they're doing and they like to have a cuddle when they want comfort." The playgroup appeal for help came a couple of months after Gwen Evans from Ramleaze was widowed. "Helping in the playgroup got me out of the house. I have two older grandchildren, so it's nice to be with younger children. It's very enjoyable to be in the playgroup. I think a man could contribute a lot if they tried it out." Jenny Woodman agrees. "A man would bring a different kind of influence. Whenever one of the dads helps out, it gives the playgroup session a different atmosphere. An older man would help a great deal." The Oliver Tomkins Pre-School Centre can be found next to the landscape depot off Beaumaris Road, Toothill. Somebody is there every weekday between 9a.m. and 3p.m. to talk to any mature men who want to knowmore about help theplaygroup.
Calling all Grandparents (and parents too) There are many young families living In Swindon who's parents are not near by. The example is Jane and Steve who have a very lively toddler and twins of 6 months. They moved to Swindon with Steve's Job and he now works long hours. Jane misses the regular contact with her family, but thanks to her Health Visitor's suggestion of Home Start she now knows that every Wednesday she will see Sue, who has become a bit of a replacement for her mum. Sue has time to listen to Jane talking about the ups and downs of being a young mum. She also plays with Mark, the toddler and helps Jane with the twins. Occasionally they all go shopping together or Sue will look after the twins whilst Jane spends a little time on a special activity with Mark to stop him feeling left out as the twins take up so much of her time. Sue is pleased she joined Home Start as her family are now all at secondary school and although she is not yet aGranny, enjoys the same role through Jane's children. Home Start needs people like Sue, who are parents themselves, to support young parents like Jane, It Is a voluntary organisation, run by professionals, who prepare, support and place volunteers like Sue. Jane was referred to Home Start by her Health Visitor, but other families could be referred by Social Workers, Doctors or some make contact themselves. If you, like Sue, have a morning or afternoon a week to spare and would enjoy helping a family like Jane's, Home Start would love to hear from you. They are running a new Course of Preparation in late September so now Is an Ideal time. Ring Linda or Anne on 613886 (or leave your number on their answer phone). They will, I know, talk to you more without you needing to feel any obligation.
NEWS & VIEWS Walk for Wildlife Thanks for all the kindness A couple from Toothill would like to express their profound thanks to all their friends and neighbours for helping them out in their time of need. Marion and John Cherkas from Ainwick returned from a happy holiday in Europe during August. "We had a lovely holiday visiting our son and all was normal the day we came back," said Marion. During the early hours of the morning I could see something was wrong. As an ex-nurse I could see John was having a stroke and rang for an ambulance. He was rushed to PMH and was later transferred to the stroke rehabilitation unit at Savernake Hospital where he is doing well." Marion has been confined to a wheelchair for the last six years owing to arthritis and spinal surgery. John retired in 1986 and has been helping her, but now finds himself temporarily in a chair. "Our friends and neighbours have been wonderful and we cannot thank them enough. There's been an army of helpers cooking, doing the housework, mowing the lawn, washing the car. It's meant I've been able to stay at home and visit John regularly. "He was paralysed on the left
The Swindon branch of the World Wide Fund For Nature is holding their 1989 Sponsored Walk for Wildlife around Lydiard Country Park and they want as many West Swindon residents to take part, or to sponsor a walker. The walk takes place on Sunday 8 October, from 10.30a.m. to 4.30p.m. on a marked trai of about three milesl through Lydiard Park woodland and farmland. Every walker will receive a certificate and a badge to thank them for taking part. If you raise £60, you will receive a 1990 WWF Diary and any group taking part which raises £200 will receive a wall Marion and John plaque. rolling along together Judy Turner has the official side, but his leg has now recov- sponsorship forms. She can be ered. He can't feel anything in his contacted on 783483. arm yet but the experts say he's doing well. The staff are marvellous and are giving him loads of physiotherapy. "His sense of humour stills sparkles and he would like to thank all the people who have sent him get-well cards."
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They've looked after you for many years, now you can do something for then., Knowing that Granny or Grandad are safe and well is reassuring to both you and them. Thamesdown Homeline provides just that reassurance because whenever you leave, Homeline is always there to help. Pensioners who subscribe to Homeline have help at hand within minutes. Because this round-the-clock welfare monitoring system comes complete with special devices designed to summon assistance fast in any real emergency. Whether Granny or Grandad is a Council tenant or a private householder, find out more about the ways Homeline can bring peace of mind by filling in and returning the FREEPOST coupon, or dial 100 and ask for 'Freefone Thamesdown Homeline.' THAMESDOWN
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David Jackman of West Swindon solicitors Morrison & Masters provides some advice if you're thinking of letting your home
At the end of the summer last year my office was under siege from first time buyers anxious to gain a foothold in the house market and beat the deadline for double mortgage tax relief. Most hopefuls made it in time, then 'flop' went the housing market. This year, a very different you can expect to get your propscene. For people who have to erty back and allow a generous move away, through job changes margin for safety; or other pressures, the headache 5. Keep careful track of dates now is finding a buyer. The alter- when legal notices to quit or nonative is to let the family home on tices of intended possession prorent for a short period. The ceedings can and should be Housing Act 1988 came into force served; on 15 January and has removed 6. Get a professional agent to several of the old constraints. No manage the property if you are longer need I give gloomy warn- leaving the country. They deal ings about the Rent Officer's with all the headaches (in return awesome power to tear up a ten- for a monthly fee of course) and ancy agreement and slash the rent are much more reliable than by half. No longer do you have to friends or relations 'keeping an create a set of artificial circum- eye' on your home. stances to enable you (the landHowever, the old practical lord) to maintain that you now problems, by and large, have not need the house back for your own gone away. The success or othermain residence. The Rent Acts wise of a letting depends mainly are virtually scrapped, for any on the character of the tenant and tenancy starting after 15 January. his promptness in paying the rent So, providing these steps are and packing his bags when told carefully followed, there should to go. No amount of law can be no legal problems:prevent the occasional con-man 1. Get your building society's getting the keys to your house, written permission to let your but it seems under the new Act house. They will require either that the courts' powers to sus(a) an assured shorthold tenancy pend ordelayre-possession cases, (maximum 6 months and a spe- where you have made out a cial notice served on the tenant) proper legal ground for re-posor (b) an assured tenancy granted session are now severely limited. after a notice has been served I do, of course, have a vested saying that the landlord has pre- interest in advising the use of a viously been an owner/occupier solicitor (or professional letting and has a mortgage lender (who agent, or both) in these cases. But may also take possession pro- after all, you are dealing with ceedings independently of the your own home and probably all landlord); your furniture as well. Solicitors 2. Have a proper legal agree- make far more money sorting out merit prepared and signed, be- a disastrous home made tenancy fore the tenant is allowed into the agreement than in drawing up a property; model contract in the first place. 3. Be careful of the income tax So, if you intend letting your effect of your letting; home, get professional help first! 4. Be aware of the earliest date
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HOME & GARDEN
Broader
Link magazine gardening writer Claire Beaton, ./ Ievvs pictured right, takes a look over the garden fence at the maturing landscape of West Swindon
October really has to be the end of the season of summer gardening, no matter how we try to extend it with autumn bulbs, michaelmas daisies and pampas grasses. All the flowers seem to fade now. The bright reds and blues of petunias and geraniums are sparse and the tired remnants of bedding shrink against the larger scale of the autumn surrounding them. This is something we should take advantage of, making certain that the larger plantings become views that belong to our gardens rather than a seasonal surprise whose outsize scale just highlights how tiny our plots are. Borrow those trees and shrubs from outside the garden and integrate them into your view. The plantings in the older parts of West Swindon are becoming more spectacular each year. Look at the wild roses with sprays of scarlet rosehips along Tewkesbury Way. People living in Sparcells and the Plantation many find it hard to believe that the scruffy areas of twigs wrapped in plastic tubes planted at the ends of their of their roads will ever look much better but that is how Tewkesbury Way started out. Other plants to look out for are the poplars; the post-like trees planted for their speed of growth. Their heartshaped leaves sound like water trick-
ling through the hot summer and now are turning butter yellow. In the new year brown catkins are the first signs of the spring. Look out for the elms as well. Last year they were among the last trees to lose their leaves. Their canopies glinted bright as golden clouds throughout October and after dark were eerie in the street lighting. Even more numerous are the rowan and whitebeams. The rowans were berrying in August and by October the berries have dropped or been eaten by the birds. In autumn, the feathery leaves turn plum and fiery bronze. Their relatives the whitebeams grow a more rounded canopy with toothed, oval leaves. These colour to a more intense benfire of colour. You may find that one of a clump of these plants becomes visible from your windows as the autumn progresses. Borrowing their magnificence is achieved by linking what is in the garden to what is outside with a carefully chosen plant and directing attention to the view it creates by screening off other views. A clump of Rugosa Roses would link to that thicket of Dog Roses outside. A Himalayan Birch or rowan can be planted as a member of clump that is straying inside your garden, as a link
to those trees growing outside. Once you have chosen the view you wish to frame the fastest way to direct attention to it is to erect some screen: a mix of trellis panels and climbers is both attractive and effective. There should be an interesting range of designs available in the garden centres now, both traditional square trellis and diagonal stripped. October is good month for doing the work as well; there are not so many other jobs needing immediate attention. But don't forget to stand a moment and enjoy the wider scene while working.
Stone Lane
A
Gardening Club who to contact
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The West Swindon Gardening Club held its Annual General Meeting on 4 September and elected officers to organise activities for the coming year. These are: Chair: Fred Fowler, 85 Crawford Close, Freshbrook. Tel: 870078. CeLl etary: Mrs Fuller, 36 Colchester close, Toothifi. Tel: 48591 Treasurer: Derek Greatham, 5 Rowton Heath Way, Freshbrook. Tel: 875521. Meetings are held in the Community Suite at the Link Centre on the first Monday of the month at 8p.m. Speakers are arranged for each meeting to cover all aspects of gardening. New members are always welcomed.
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Advent idea The Link Centre are appealing to local schools to help put together a giant advent calender to be displayed in the Mall at the centre. All Swindon's schools are being circulated with an invitation to send 24 pictures depicting traditional scenes which will be revealed one by one before Christmas Day. "This could be a project for the whole school, just one class or even a small group of children
working together," explained Promotions Officer Anya Kent. "We want to put a colourful display in keeping with the time of the year and the display will allow children to express their views of Christmas." Each drawing selected for display will win the artist a ticket to a family ice-skating session and every entrant will have his or her name put into a grand draw. The winnerpupilwill win afamilyticket to the Link Centre's Christmas Ice Gala.
Neighbours of Westlea Are you alone at home with young children? Do you want to meet others? Westlea Neighbours aims to provide a meeting place for parents with young children who want to meet others in the area. The group meets on Thursday at 2p.m. in the Community Room at Westlea School. "Neighbours offers the hand of friendship to anybody who needs it," says organiser Sue Sheikh. "We want to give Westlea parents who are not in a group a focus. If you're bored at home on a Thursday with your children, why not pop in for a chat with us. We're a very friendly group of people." Tea up and a friendly welcome at Westlea Neighbours
• LELTERS TO THE LINK. Link Centre and Under 5's
The Cornflower R.I.P.
From Alison Barrett, Mannington Lane, Westlea
From Mrs Vicky Brown, Tamworth Drive, Shaw
I and several friends feel we must make our views known over the way our under 5's have been treated by the Link Centre. Our children were due to start another 6 week session of Toddler Bounce on 15 September. Just 24 hours before the first session, we were contacted by the Centre who informed us that the whole 6 week session was cancelled because the instructor had let them down. Over the last two 6 week sessions, our children have had three different instructors, all with different teaching methods. Why advertise these courses without ensuring that they have an instructed who is committed? On cancelling the latest course we were informed that the next lot of bookings would be taken from 1 October onwards. Approximately 36 children have been let down, why should we re-book? They should automatically be given places on the next course if they still want them, without us having to fill out another application form and then waiting up to 3 weeks before knowing if they've got a place. Nobody seems to think it matters if children are let down; after all they can't complain can they? It's up to us, the parents, to make sure they are treated fairly. The Link Centre needs to look again at how they organise courses and how they treat their customers.
I agree wholeheartedly with Cathy Baker regarding the name change of The Cornflower, (Sep-
Offensive apostrophe
What should you do with the Insides of a pumpkin? Nichola Quant of British Gas suggests how you can put it to good use. It is the month of October that the Pumpkin comes into season for eight brief weeks until the end of November. Trade usually becomes quite brisk towards the end of October as Halloween Party Goers scoop out the flesh and carve ghoulish faces in the shell to be illuminated by candle as pumpkin lanterns. But it is worth remembering that the flesh, so often wasted, can form the basis of interesting and unusual dishes. With the seeds removed and the flesh chopped and cooked it can be served simply tossed in seasoning and butter as a vegetable. Alternatively, puree the flesh for pumpkin soup or pumpkin pie, traditionally served in the America at the Thanksgiving Supper in November. Pumpkin Pie 8oz (2259) Shortcrust Pastry lib (450g) Pumpkin flesh, pureed 3 Eggs, separated 8 fl. oz (225ml) Can evaporated milk 8oz (2259) Castor sugar ltsp. (1x5ml sp.) Cinnamon 1/2tsp (1/2x5m1 sp.) Ground ginger 1/4tsp (1/4x5m1 sp.) Ground nutmeg 1/4tsp (1/4x5m1 sp.) Salt To serve: Whipped cream Method 1. Use the pastry to line a 9" (230mm) pie dish. 2. Lightly beat the egg yolks, pumpkin, evaporated milk, sugar, spices and salt until well blended. 3. Whisk the egg whites until they form soft peaks and gently fold them into the pumpkin mixture using a metal spoon. 4. Pour the mixture into the pastry case and bake at Gas Mark 5 for 45 minutes. A knife inserted into the filling should come out clean when cooked. Serve hot with cream.
From: G. Crabbe, Whittington Road, Westlea
I hope you don't mind if I write about a matter which may seem trivial. I think The Link is an excellent publication but some of your correspondents let you down badly! On September's front page there are some glaring errors where the apostrophe is entirely wrong. It's means "it is" and nothing else, as I'm sure you know, but many people use it when they should put Its. Sorry to seem a little petty, but it really does jar. Keith Waterhouse used to write whole articles about this very subject, pointing out the thousands of greengrocers up and down the country who sell potatoe's, tomatoe's and carrot's! Keep up the good work. Editor: Your correction is welcomed as our much vaunted desktop publishing system does not highlight grammatical mistakes. The spellchecker tried to correct the apostrophied vegetables though!
tember Link Magazine).
I can remember when the pub was built and it was a nice gesture to include locals in deciding a name. The name - The Cornflower was chosen which proved very apt at the time and has continued to do so. How ridiculous to now want to change it again just because it's going to have face lift. A spokesman for the owners said a new name will help to emphasis the changes. What rubbish. Word will get around without drastic measures. "Leave the name as it is, Whitbread Severn Inns." Stupid footpath crossing From Mrs K.E. Seeley, Gainsborough Court, Freshbrook.
I agree most heartily with the article 'Footpath not in the Right Place'. In the last two yearsl have drawn the attention of two or three councillors to the fact that the footpath down Rowton Heath Way, turns into Gainsborough Way, then stops within 50 paces of the main gates to a block of elderly peoples' flats. As yet nobody has been able to tell me why it stopped short. The councillors have been most surprised as they had not noticed it, until it was pointed out to them, They all promised to see it was rectified. The elderly residents coming out of the main gate have to cross over the road, or try and negotiate the grass verge, which is uneven. This is whether they are in wheelchairs, on sticks, blind, or just shaky, whichever way they go they have to cross over a busy road. Another point I would like to make, the roundabout at the cross road of Gainsborough Way and Rowton Heath Way has so many bushes on it, it is impossible for pedestrians to see what is coming round or in which direction it is going. Cars, bikes and motorbikes whiz round so fast, they are on top of you before you have a chance to see them. I do hope something is soon done to enable not only the elderly to walk along Gainsborough Way in safety, but also mothers with young children and buggies. Clothing Alterations & Repairs. Tel: 872096 Mrs. White, Freshbrook
END PIECES Ecumenical Parish of Who knows what the West West Swindon Swindon Family Project is? & The Lydiards Project Co-ordinator John Jenkins provides a brief history and an idea of what work takes place at present
The Project began in 1981 with one worker in one room at Toothill farmhouse. It was set up to help newcomers to the area, particularly young families. To do this the Project worker recruited volunteers who were trained to run a day care service looking after children for working mums and two benefits advice points. After a year of successful work it became apparent that the Project had outgrown its premises and so it sought a place of its own. This was found after a year of looking and trying and the Project moved in to its own house in January 1985. Since moving here the Project has continued its advice point work. It now runs three sessions each week and can boast a volunteer who has been doing the job for 7 years! Our volunteers help people with benefits advice, fuel debts, credit and HP debts and by helping to get loans from local charities. We also operate several groups with creche facilities during the week. At the Project we have regular groups on Wednesdays and Thursdays for mums and their children. These groups are open to all residents of the area and are only limited by space. We do a lot of our own fundraising for our summer trips and our annual holiday, amongst other things. Last year we took over 30 families to Cornwall. This year we are going twice to Great Yarmouth and are sharing the holiday with the Pinehurst Neighbourhood Centre.
Anglican, Methodist, U.RC., Baptist. Toothill Rev. Ian Handscomb 693384 Rev. Anne Thomas 496421
St. Mary's L.Tregoze for Freshbrook & Grange Park
31 MOBILE MECHANIC WE COME TO YOU • Non-Starts • Tuning M.O.T. Work • Breakdowns • Electrical Faults • Clutches Fitted
Rev. Tony Price 870244
Westlea Rev. John Flory 770217 1'
Shaw and Sparcells Rev. Keith Boxall 770568 Rev. Helen Drummond 874372
t also All Saints, L Millicent
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Please Telephone 876211 ANYTIME
HILLIER Project workers, from left, Kath Ryder, John Jenkins and Audrey Johnson
Away from the Project we run a regular group at Toothill Church for mums and children. The Upper Shaw toddler group was started by several of our workers before it went self supporting. We also have a toy library which we hope will become mobile and visit mums who can't get to us. The Project aims to help any resident of the area by giving them the chance to meet others and join in activities together. We are not here just for solving problems; we are here to help each other make more of a life for ourselves in any way we can. If you want to know more then contact us on 871303 and talk to John, Audrey or Kath. Or call in at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, with no obligation. If we can't help you, we probably know someone who can
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PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24-hour personal service throughout the year I
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THAMESWOOD VETERINARY CLINIC Nicholas Hartley MA., Vet. M.B. M.R.C.V.S. 62 - 64 Purton Road. Tel: Swindon 26780 Mon. - Fri. 9am- lOam; 2pm-3pm; 5pm-6pm Open Surgery Mon. - Fri. 6pm-6.3Opm Saturday 9am-llam
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4, Renaul
Youth Dance group AIDS IS WHAT BAD PEOPLE GET, RIGHT? wants more AIDS is something that happens to members naughty people, and it serves them Greendown Youth Dance Group are starting up again after a break and we welcome new and old members. After last year's successful production we are looking for enthusiastic, not necessarily experienced dancers to contribute to this year's. WHO 12-l6 year olds In W. Swindon WHERE Greendown Drama Studio WHEN Every Wednesday 5.30p.m.-7.00p.m. COST 20p per week
The Reference Page will return next month
right! The best thing to do with them is lock them up or ship them off somewhere. The Swindon Health Promotion Unit presents a powerful drama by the Women and Theatre Company about the myths and prejudices arising from the transmission of the HIV virus. Set in 1992 at a time when it is estimated that many more people will have contracted AIDS, the play depicts the scene in a government run 'hotel' where people with it are put for their own 'safety, health and protection. Those in the hotel have contracted AIDS by different means and they share their common experiences as the outside threatens. Link Arts Studio. Saturday 21 October, 8p.m.
Morrison & Masters TOWN SQUARE, WEST SWINDON CENTRE. TELEPHONE 870055 for House Sales and Purchases & all Property Work (written estimates given) Divorce, Criminal and all Court work Wills and Probates WEST SWINDON'S ONLY SOLICITORS! Also at 20 Commercial Road, Swindon. Telephone: 26601 and 69a Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill. Telephone: 481602
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0 24 BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY (ANY DISTANCE) .. SERVICING & REPAIRS Q.. MOT's WHILE YOU WAIT 3. PARTS & ACCESSORIES SHOP 0: ACCIDENT REPAIRS AA . CAR BODY SPRAYING APPOINTED 3. ALL ESTIMATES GIVEN FREE 0. COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE 3: INSURANCE CRASH REPAIRS AUTHORISED REPAIRERS FOR LEADING FRESHBROOK INSURANCE COMPANIES