October 1996 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

No. 173

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October 1996

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Circulation 16,500

TSP

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Distributed in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhali Park & Abbey Meads

the positive newsforce in West and North Swindon and the swindon wide what's on guide

UNITED

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Church comes together in Abbey Meads Representatives from all denominations joined 150 people at Abbey Meads village green on 10 September to witness the birth of a church in Swindon's northern expansion. New minister Deaconess Maureen Spinks writes about the task before her on page 7.

Older voices to be heard Thamesdown's senior residents will be getting together for the first time at a 'Forum for Older People' on 30 October at the Link Centre to find out how they can have their views heard more clearly. Veteran campaigner Jack Jones M.B.E., President the National Pensioners Convention, will speak on the importance of older people expressing their needs through independent, community based groups. Other speakers will talk about housing, social services, education and leisure services. Future meetings in Swindon will depend on older people speaking out and being willing to make demands on decision makers and service providers. The day, organised by Age Concern Thamesdown, the University of the Third Age and Thamesdown Council's community development department, starts at 10am and closes at 4pm. It costs £1 and includes lunch. Dial-a-Ride transport is available. To find out more and to book a place at the Forum, call 493575.

Youth plan to go into print A husband and wife team from Freshbrook are taking to the stage to show off their skills as illusionists. Find out how on page 2.

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Teenagers in West Swindon are looking at publishing their own magazine but more young people are needed to turn this idea into reality. Turn to page 3 to find out how you could become involved.

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The Link Magazine • October 1996

Relationship is no illusion

.5'

MAUREEN PEARSON

A husband and wife magic act will be taking to the stage for the first time in early October.

A.T.T.

TAXATION ADVISOR

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The Walker's will be performing parts of their new stage act for the first time in several 20 twenty minute shows at the Rover factory open day on 5 October. "We've been using equipment costing around £400; now we will be presenting illusions costing up to £1,500," said Phil. "We really need a backer to help us launch into big time shows and television. We're doing 25,000 miles a year and a sponsor's name on the side of the trailer would get positive exposure." Phil and Heather have shows booked all over Belgium and Germany during October and November and throughout the UK in December. They will be appearing as themselves in the day time TV show Supermarket Sweep sometime in the next two months. Sponsors can contact them on 873886.

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Phil Walker from Godolphin Close has been featured in The Link on several occasions as we followed the development of his show business career. In fact, Jayne Candlin from Grange Park responded to an article to become his stage assistant in March 1995. When Jayne became pregnant a couple of months ago Phil had to find another helper. Who better to turn to than his best rehearsal critic Heather, his wife. "I've seen Phil's act develop over the last few years and knew what he was trying to achieve from an observer's point of view, but I didn't think he would take me on," said Heather. "We're working towards launching a completely new show in early October and we have only a few weeks to get ourselves organised. It's been quite busy with rehearsing, looking after the children and trying to lose weight."

Toothill Village Centre Toothill Swindon

IRIRWVANVN~l Editorial: Roger Ogle Publisher/Editor I Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersetting Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly.

Shop mobility scheme ready to roll A project designed to give disabled people greater independence is set to open on 21 October. However, the Swindon Shopmobility scheme needs more volunteers to allow the service to expand. Thamedown Council has converted the ground floor of the town centre Wyvern car park to house electric and manual wheelchairs, and scooters which can be used free of charge by people with disabilities. There is also a reception area for users and car parking for disabled drivers. Volunteers are needed to work alongside Shopmobility coordinator Tony Hearn to welcome users, to act as escorts on shopping trips and assist where needed. The project will be open fromTuesday to Friday, 9.30am to 4pm, and Saturday, lOam to 4.3Opm. Anyone with half a day or more to spare and can help should call Shopmobility coordinator Ton yHearn Miriam Minty on 526161 ext. 4785. with project developer Miriam Minty

Copy date for November

edition: 19 October Published: 2 November Copy for December/January: 16 November The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, including publication is forbidden unless advertisers orpublishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Contents 4 Toothill Westlea 5 Haydon Wick 6 7 Abbey Meads Freshbrook & Grange Park 8 10 Shaw & Roughmoor 12 At Your Library 13-14 Recreation 19-21 Swindon Wide 22-29 News & Views 30 Letters to The Link 31 Local Lives

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It commenced distribution in North Swindon in January 1994."

TO A' VERTISE IN THE LINK CALL (01793) 872282

The Link Magazine â€˘ October 1996

School admissions to alter

LOOSE ENDS

Admission arrangements for children starting secondary school from September 1997 could be changed. Wiltshire County Council are consulting Swindon school governors about changing the way parents can choose a secondary school. At present, places are allocated on the basis of where a child lives. The arrangement now being considered would guarantee places at a named secondary school based on the primary school that a child attends. Education Officer Phil Cooke said the local education authority needed to sustain a co-ordinated and planned approach to pupil placements in order to cope with parental preferences and the continued growth in the number of children in the West and North Swindon areas.

The authority wants to ensure parents are clear about the choices before them so that there is a smooth transfer between primary and secondary school. Local authority and grant maintained schools are working together to try and avoid the situation in other parts of the country where some children do not have a school to go to, and schools sometimes do not know how many children are due to arrive in September.' Under the new scheme, feeder primary schools to Hreod Parkway School will be Ferndale, Greenmeadow, Haydon Wick, Hayden Leigh, Moredon and Rodbourne Cheney. In West Swindon, parents will

still have a choice of two schools. All parents can select Greendown. Brook Field, Freshbrook, Salt Way, Shaw Ridge, Tregoze and Windmill Hill schools will also feed into Braden Forest. Oliver Tomkins, Toothill and Westlea schools will feed Ridgeway. If any school is oversubscribed, admission priority will be in accordance with published criteria. Parents who want to know more should contact their primary school.

Youth to go into print Kerry Porter and Teresa Barclay from Toothill want to start a publication aimed at teenagers which they have called 'Youthquake.' They are looking for other young people to create a production team. "There's nowhere for young people to express their views; it's difficult to get our message across," says Teresa. Kerry said there is also a need for information. "We want to explore issues on health, relationships and facilities for teenagers, and also list what's going on. But we want young people to get involved in creating 'Youthquake.' "We need to form a team of writers, photographers and organisers aged 14 to 20 to build a team to produce the magazine. If you want to get involved, drop us a line at

the Link Youth Unit or call Jo Marchment on 445529." Kerry and Teresa are being helped by the Wiltshire Youth Service and The Link, and have been actively seeking financial backing for their project.

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Young people in The Link distribution area could soon have their own magazine.

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Wrag Barn Golf & Country Club Shrivenham Road Highworth, Swindon Membership now available at Wrag Barn! (limited)

Youth worker Jo Marchment with youth publishers Teresa Barclay and Kerry Porter at the Link Youth Unit I *tq

Are you one of Thatcher's children?

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Caroline Park of Ray Fitzwalter Associates writes:

Do you care what happens to this country? Channel 4 television is looking for people born on 11 February 1975, the day Mrs Thatcher became leader of the Conservative party, for a documentary series called 'Thatcher's Children.' You're 21, voting in your first general election next spring, and Channel 4 want to meet you! They want to know your views on life, the universe, politics and everything. For starters, are you going to bother voting? If so, who will you

be voting for, and why? What would you like to see changed in this country, or do you think things are fine they way they are? Whatever your opinion, this is your opportunity to voice it, on TV. You'll also get to meet loads of other people from all over the country with the same birthday as you! Thatcher's Children is being made by Manchester-based independent production company, Ray Fitzwalter Associates. If your birthday is 11 February 1975 and you are interested in taking part, call me on 0161 832 3337.

Located in glorious Wiltshire countryside, just 6 miles from Swindon, Wrag Barn offers a beautifully manicured and challenging 18 hole course. The club is privately owned and great pride is shown in every aspect of the business, as with any family concern. The club house, where no expense has been spared, is attractively furnished. It's an ideal spot to enjoy a glass or two on the balcony overlooking the 18th, or rather more formally, a sumptuous meal in the restaurant. The advantages of membership to Wrag Barn are many, come and see for yourself'.

Membership enquiries to the Secretary on (01 793) 861327

TOOTH ILL

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Abbey(1 eld Where older people find care in housing • Care and companionship in very sheltered housing • Low charges, affordable to all • Meals provided • Nine self-contained independent rooms For more information, please call Pauline Eagle, resident housekeeper Abbeyfield House, 73 Bath Road, Swindon • Tel: 538429

LOOK and LISTEN before you commit yourself to any major home improvement. New windows, doors and especially a new conservatory can transform your home... but it's worth using this simpI checklist:

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Work in progress at Toothill Church The congregation at Toothill Church has now been out of its building and worshipping in Toothill Community Centre for three months, reports Revd George Gibson, Minister for Toothill Church. Our rebuilding programme is a little behind schedule and there's a risk we may not be back in time for Christmas. Whatever happens, well do our level best to have special Christmas services for the people of Toothill, and will let you know nearer the time. We are enjoying being the Community Centre. The committee and staff have been very kind to us and Sunday worship has been lively, with us being in a smaller space and having a lower ceiling for the sound of our singing to bounce off. Being out of the Church has also given a more informal feel to our worship - which we plan to keep going when we move back home. All summer we have been seeing a gentle increase in the size of our congregation. So we are happy to report that building work is in

progress both at the Church building and amongst the Church people. When we do return were planning to celebrate with a big coming home service. Watch this space for details.

Did you know that living in Toothill could save you money? Rosie Jones writes:

Credit unions are community banks which are run by local people. Joining Toothill Credit Union encourages weekly savings and makes available cheap loans to its members, along with other benefits. People save from lOp or 50p to £5 or £10 per week - as much or as little as you like. Credit unions are regulated by law and insured, so your savings are safe and the maximum interest which can be charged on a loan is only 1% per month. After the positive response to the article in the September Link magazine, Toothill Credit Union would like to welcome its new

members and remind readers not to miss out on getting the most out of your local saving and loans club. If you are interested in finding out more about Toothill Credit Union, come along to the collection point on Thursdays, between 7pm and 8pm at Toothill Community Centre, or contact Sherie on 421467 (evenings only) or Bill on 487216. The credit union is open to anyone who lives in Toothill, if you have any spare time and want to get involved, volunteers are also welcome.

Phoenix Surgery patients become friends essie Morrison, Chairman of F.O.P.S. writes:

We are a newly formed group of offer practical help, decorating the patients registered with Dr Peter surgery, cutting the grass, running Swinyard in Toothill. Our aims coffee mornings and transporting are to support patients and to give less able and elderly members of them a voice in the running of the the practice to GP and hospital practice. We also want to promote appointments, or pick up prescripand encourage good communica- tions for them. tion between patients and memOur group, although supported bers of the practice team and would and encouraged by Dr Swinyard like to support them by fundraising and his team will run independto purchase equipment which will ently of them. make life easier for staff and paIf you are registered with Dr tients alike. Swinyard and feel able to help and Another very important aim is support F.O.P.S. please leave your to establish a network of volun- details at the surgery reception teers and voluntary drivers from with Wendy or Gaynor, or phone within the practice list who can me on 872355.

WESTLEA

Well qualified surgery workers Patients attending the Ashington House doctors surgery in Westlea will now be dealing with receptionists who have all achieved the City & Guilds National Vocational Qualification Business Administration. At a certificate presentation in turn will improve the way we lunch in early September, practice respond to their needs." manager Sandra Walklett said the She added that she now wanted receptionists each had to produce the practice to work towards the a portfolio of their work over the Investor in People Award. NVQ assessor Peter Kinnison previous year and demonstrate competence in their day to day said that it whilst staff at GP pracactivities to an external assessor. tices can qualify for the award, it is "The process of gaining the NVQ unusual for all the receptionists to awards has been a very positive gain the qualification. Ashington Way doctor Versant experience," said Sandra. "It has improved teamwork, communica- Ketkar congratulated the reception, morale and confidence. It tionists and also Sandra Walklett also shows patients that we care for passing her vocational assesabout our staff development which sor award. Six of the eight Ashington Way receptionist present to receive their certificates, from left, Sandra Walklett, Lisa Mooney, Julia Hardy, Michelle Bailey, Loretta Smithson, Jenny Newman. Rear, Dr Robert Nixon, NVQ Assessor Pete Kinnison, Dr Vasant Ketkaar, Dr Neil Farnham, Dr Ian Matheson (Receptionists not pictured, Paula Davis, Kim Wheeler, Chris Lane)

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Duke's award calls in youth for adventure and commitment Where can young people get a combination of excitement, challenge, team work and individual pursuit?

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, open to all young people aged 14 to 25, provides opportunity for personal achievement, community and social involvement, adventure and widening of the leisure interests. No special academic abilities or physical skills are required. All that is required is effort and staying power. The scheme based atGreendown School is looking for fourteen year olds to join a new group to start work on the bronze programme. Youngsters have to pursue an interest, undertake a service in the community, a physical activity and an expedition. The range of activities is huge and is designed to give young people the widest scope to achieve success. Participants do not have to attend Greendown to take part in the DofE scheme coordinated by Bob Linnegar and Nick Stenning. To find out more contact them on 874224.

Players wanted Westlea Wanderers Football club are looking for players born between 31 July 1986 and 31 July 1987 for their team which play in a friendly Sunday league. For details call Martin on 887394

RRIWORR5 SPIKTAWN At Lydiard Park Saturday 2 November From 5.30pm. Bonfire 6pm. Fireworks 7pm Free car park on Hook Street entrance Adults £3. Children £1 (free before 6pm) Organised by 1st Purton & Lydiard Scouts

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travelling at well over 50mph." He said local councillor Kelvin King had taken up the problem. A Thamesdown council spokesman said Westfield Way would be considered at the Public Works and Services committee's annual review of dangerous sites on 5 November. Abbey Meads beat policeman Roger Guy reports that drivers are not taking heed of the 20mph speed limit through the housing areas, despite road hump, chicanes and many roundabouts. He will be making extra efforts to point out the restrictions to speeders.

Slimming class gains and losses Haydon Wick's Slimming World class is all ups and downs. Since Rachel Arnold started the sessions in StJohn's Church in June, she has gained 23 members, including four from the advertisement in last month's Link magazine. And class members have lost a collective 34 stone.

Rachel turned to Slimming World after struggling to find a regime to get her back into shape after suffering ulcerated colitis two years ago. "I tried so many diets but I could not get down to a satisfactory weight, and I always felt I was denying myself. But the Slimming World system allowed me to eat normally and the feeling of well being and confidence returned." She felt so passionate about the benefits of the Slimming World method that she trained to be a counsellor. Her class now numbers 45 men and women, and newcomers are always welcome. It meets at StJohn's Church on Thursday, 7pm. Her number is 771858. Rachel Arnold centre, with class members,from left, Valerie Craig, Carolyn McKinven, Carla Smith, Sandra Hicks with baby Ashley

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If shopping is a trial for you and your child, why not take advantage of the Haydon Centre's new 'Stop & Shop' Option for kids aged 5 to 12 years old? Running during term time from Interested? Further details are 315pm to 545pm, Monday to Fri- available from centre reception or day, the service is a flexible exten- call 706666. sion to the Sly Fox after-school club Look out for the pre-Christmas which started earlier in the year. child care Saturdays at the centre Youngsters are cared in a safe and where kids can have a fun time on fun environment, while parents 7,14 and 21 December whilst parshop in peace. ents can get the goodies in.

Fashion show for Breakthrough

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A Haydon Wick resident is calling on Thamesdown Council to improve safety on Westfield Way. Steve Burford who lives in Rosemary Close is very concerned about the speeding vehicles on the main road, especially when drivers come off the roundabout into the close. "The roundabout is offset and round a bend. Some drivers come down the hill from Woo dhall Park and just can't handle it. Cars have crashed into lamp posts, gone straight over and gone round the wrong way. Coming from the Thames Avenue end, drivers accelerate up the hill and are often

Child care for busy shoppers

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Maxwell House Maxwell Street Swindon Tel: (01793) 618499

There's a chance to indulge your passion for fashion at the Haydon Centre on Wednesday 16 October at 7.30pm. Richleys are presenting a fashion show to raise money for the Breakthrough breast cancer charity with plenty of ideas to help you step out in style this autumn. The evening includes a lucky numbers draw and raffle. Tickets at £2.50 or £1.50 for concessions, are available now from Richleys, or for more information contact Shirley Garman on 538475 or Joan Mayfield on 722663.

ABBEY MEADS

'A great adventure in Abbey Meads'

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The church has united to form a Local Ecumenical Partnership in the northern expansion area. Methodist, Baptist, United Reformed Church and Church of England representatives inaugurated the combined approach at an open air ceremony at Abbey Meads village green on 10 September. Deaconess Maureen Spinks was commissioned as the first minister for the Church of Christ the Servant. Here she explains her role. You may have guessed by now, with all the publicity and fanfare, that the church wants to play an active role in the new community in Abbey Meads. But why should we, and how do we begin? Our presence here in Abbey Meads is a sign and a symbol that the church cares about you because God cares about you as individuals and as a new and rapidly growing community. Having experienced His love and care for ourselves we want to share it with the world! We hope to bring into being here a place where: what it means to believe can be explored, spiritual life can be deepened and experience of God can be discovered. A place where: gifts and talents can be developed and expressed, friendship can grow, laughter and tears can be shared, and where

God's love and power can be celebrated. I cannot do it, but WE by God's grace can. The beginnings are simple but not easy. My role is to meet you and to greet you and to get to know you and then to be a catalyst for worship, for friendship, for social action, for exploring the Bible's relevance today and the place of prayer, to providing a meeting and a talking place, for whatever? The rest is up to you. The Church of Christ the Servant will be your Church, your participation or your absence will affect everything about it. Together we have the chance to be a part of something new. I hope you will want, in your different ways, to be part of this great adventure. • Maureen can be contacted on 706558.

Nursery & Pre-Prep Individual Care Individual learning Prior Park Preparatory School Cricklade, Wiltshire

From 6 October, you are invited to join us as we begin to share in worship at 'The Church of Christ the Servant,' meeting at 1 Hayward Close (next to temporary police station) from 10.30am. All ages welcome. Tea & biscuits afterwards.

For children aged 6 months to 7 years (out of school and holiday provision 745am - 630pm) Please contact Shelagh Hanbury B.Ed (Hons) Rajvindar Kular B.A (Hons)

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Anne Doyle, County Ecumenical Officer, left, presents Deaconess Maureen Spinks with a banner to hang in Abbey Meads new church

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New group for pre-schoolers Abbey Meads now has a group for parents with pre-school children. Eight mums with their children came together on 12 September to launch the group which will meet on Thursdays mornings, from lOam to 11.30am at 1 Haywood Close, Abbey Meads. The group will move into the new community centre when it is ready in a few weeks time. Newcomers are more than welcome to join in. For more information, call 706558.

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Hay Lane drivers watch out A campaign to cut road speeds along Hay Lane in Grange Park is going to be successful once road works have been completed. -

Tregoze School parent Teresa Handley raised a petition last November to highlight the excessive speeds drivers use after her six year old Christopher was involved in a near miss. School governors also held a meeting with the chairman of Thamesd own Council's Public Works and Services committee to press the issue. Now the council has agreed major changes along Hay Lane as part of a scheme to improve the pedestrian and cycle route along Shaw Ridge. Longer guard rails beside the road, new road markings and narrowing are planned to slow vehicles. Tregoze School governor Val Brown said she was impressed by the proposals. "Looking at the plans, it appears they could have the desired effect of reducing

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driver speed, and hopefully put off drivers from Shaw using Hay Lane as a short cut to Grange Park Way." She paid tribute to the vigilance of road crossing patrol person Debbie Goodenough whohasbeen supervising children crossing to and from Tregoze School since the beginning of the year. Work on the Hay Lane footpath has already started and a Thamesdown Council spokesperson said work on the road near the school will start in early November.

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Pre-school places Noah's Ark Under 5's Playgroup at Freshbrook Evangelical Church, Worsley Road, Freshbrook has vacancies. Their sessions run Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9.1 5am 12 noon, with a rising fives session on Thursday 1230pm 230pm. Please call into the church office or 'phone 873050 for details.

St Marys Church Lydiard Park (Free parking from Grange Park, Hay Lane entrance)

Gates open 6.30pm

Saturday 12 October. 2pm

Tel: (01793) 873217

Fii'hbk Coniiiuinity cont l e Tdh. 5 CftUIIV groups T o hk. ciIt 872450

Friday lNov 7pm

Soup, hotdogs & drinks Tickets: £2, 5 15 year olds £1 -

Oliver Tomkins Preschool has places available from October. Telephone 877299 for information.

In aid of Schools Outreach

CENTRE OF SURPRISES d(ww*Afrr &4#mol Some of the regular users Freshbrook Parent & Toddler Group. The perfect place to meet other parents with babes and under 3s over a cup of coffee. Tuesday & Thursday, 930am Freshbrook Playgroup. West Swindon' longest established and still giving an exciting experience to pre-schoolers West Swindon Friendship Club. Fun for over 55s. Activities and outings organised year round. Tuesday afternoons Freshbrook Lunch Club. Friendly people tasty lunch, bargain prices for any retired or disabled people across West Swindon. Transport available. Fridays Sullivan School of Dance. Ballet, tap and modern dance taught by Jenny Sullivan, celebrating her 10th year at the centre. Wednesday & Friday Ju-Jitsu Club. Self-defence for juniors and adults on Monday and Thursday Karate with Lee Crown on Tuesday and Friday evening Slimming World. Stay in trim every Thursday Slimming Clubs UK. Sheds that weight on Thursday evening Weight Watchers. A great way to lose pounds on Wednesday evening Raleigh Dog Training Club. Get that pooch under control, or prepare Rover for the big show on Friday evening North Wilts Flydresser Guild. Learn and practice the art of fly-tying on Tuesday evening

The Turnpike Club a great place to meet The centre's licenced bar offers a fine selection of wines, spirits and beers, darts, music, satellite TV and most important pleasant company. -

Membership is open to residents of Freshbrook & Grange Park only. It costs only £3 a year, £5 for a couple. Pensioners pay only £2 in the first year and its free thereafter. Cutout this advert and yourJIrst months membership is FREE

Wedding, party, family celebration coming up? Two large halls available with kitchen and bar facilities available. Look to us for that special event.

Call into the centre for more information on any of the groups using the centre, or to hire a room, or call 87017 Freshbrook Community Centre is managed by the people of Freshbrook & Grange Park for the people of Freshbrook & Grange Park

MORTGAGE SERVICES Serving the community since 1987

Mansfield Begbie Associates

LOOKING TO REMORTGAGE? Take advantage of recent interest rate reductions we can offer

LOOKING TO MOVE? Competitive rates • Greater stability

Whether you are moving house or thinking of re-mortgaging your present property, we may be able to help you

We have special discounts available NOW!! First time buyers 2.09% (APR 2.4%) for one year (variable)* 4.49% (APR 4.8%) for two years (variable)*

* £400 cashback on completion

Combination Discount Cashback

A 3% discount for one year, PLUS a 3% cashback. For example, £50,000 at 3.99% (APR 4.3%) would cost £151.29 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance), together with a £1,500 cashback on completion. (Maximum loan to value 85%)

Fixed rates

For example, 2 years fixed rate at 4.99% (APR 5.1%) and 3 year fixed rate 6.85% (APR 7.2%). (Max loan to value 95%)

If you already have a mortgage

Cashbacks of up to £6,000 are now Don't worry available for housebuyers and those seeking to re-mortgage.

Now available:

00.

For example, £50,000 would cost £79.24 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 4.9% for the first year. For example, £50,000 would cost £170.24 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 2.5% for the first two years.

100% mortgages now available for first and second time buyers

You tell us what your requirements are and we will try to provide the arrangements to suit your individual needs Mansfield Begbie Associates can arrange mortgages with the majority of building societies and banks in the UK.

For free advice and further information, call us now on

Swindon 873369 'Repxeserillaffive ory of CORNHtLL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only. COR*If-ftLL INSURANCE PLC is regaitated by the Personal Investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business. Credit broker fees of up to 1% on the advance may be charged at completion depending on the type of product and credit period Rate applied Is 2.09%PA (2.4% APR) for one year APR is oarlebia. Rates may very. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request Only available to persons 18 years of age or over. Subplot to status. Subject In our current lending criteria, A 49% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 6.99%. Those applicants beoelrttrng from this specie discount who redeem theIr mortgage within four years from the date 01 completion will be charged an additional sin rrrorclhs interest. This charge will be reimbursed de new mortgage is then taken out with the Society. Example: A warned couple eged 30 years end 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £hO.000 over e 25 yeer lenn (305 rnonfhty payments), completing before 31 September 1996 secured against a property being purchased for will £55,000 300 monthly mortgage payments net of leo of E79,24 Monthly endowment premiumof £74.96 Total amount payable £96.4 15 Calculafed to include valuation fee £155 This calculation u based on the assumption that the discounted rate apply throughout the term of the loan. Maximum loan F150.000. The 2.09% rate applies to loans up to and including 95% of the porchase price or valuation, whichever is the lower, The di500untod mate is applicable for one year, after which the then current rate will apply. When an applicant is borrowing mom than 75% the Society will require additional security. This is usually in the loon of a Risk Charge

REMEMBER YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR OTHER LOAN SECURED ON IT

SHAW & ROUGHMOOR

Youth spread the word about club A youth club has restarted after the summer break and wants more young people from Shaw, Peatmoor and Sparcells to join in. Launched last April, the Upper Shaw youth club caters for 13 to 21 years olds and is open on Tuesday evenings in the Upper Shaw Centre, Ridge Green.

MOBILE CAR VALETING All SWINDON AUTO SHINE FULL VALETS INTERIOR VALETS WE HAVE A VALET FOR YOU PLUS NO VAT TO PAY

No time for cleaning?

We'll leave you gleaming! 01793 876536 0850 654542

There is table tennis, snooker, coffee and chat with other teenagers from the area. Local band 'Wasted' will be playing live on 8 October, 7pm to 10pm. The cost of entry is £1. More adult help is needed to work alongside the sessional youth worker, to keep the youth club going. If you can help, give Jane Kirk a call on 877983. Right: Members of the youth club, eager to meet other teenagers

MOBILE CAR SERVICING & REPAIRS * Electronic tuning * Welding * Electrical work * MoTs arranged (no re-test fee) For a reliable local service with over 20 years experience (No VAT to pay)

CALL GRAHAM ON (01793) 873045 or 0860 835912

SUREWAY MOTORING SCHOOL BEGINNERS COURSE: FIRST FIVE HOURS £10 EACH Male & Female Instructors Student discounts available + Nervous pupils a speciality

Tel: 871492 NOW Ci\KTEIL READ & DOVE Commerce House, 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon • • • •

A fast efficient fully computerised conveyancing service Family Law • Wills • Probate Personal Injury Claims Employment Matters

Telephone now for a quote:

Tel: (01793) 617617 Fax: (01793) 511249

Pre-school places Nine Elms Playgroup, which meets in Shaw Chapel, off Roughmoor Way, has vacancies. Sessions run Monday to Friday, 915am to 12 noon and there is a rising fives session. For more information telephone 871655. The Woodlands Kindergarten has places available at their three morning sessions, on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, at Roughmoor Social Hall, Swinley Drive. For more details or to arrange a visit phone Candy Shaw on 771047 or Eleanor Snowden on 772069.

Parents say thanks to special care unit A sponsored walk across Dartmoor in July raised £325 for the Sadler Unit for special needs children at Victoria Hospital. The ten mile hike in the 'Ten old son Ryan who has attended Post Box Walk' organised by the the unit over the last 18 months. Dartmoor 100 Club, by Jackie Cross "I wouldn't have done it withfrom Worlidge Drive, Shaw and out a good cause to get me going," Richard Vale from Wootton Bassett said Jackie. "But we noticed the was a thank you for the care taken unit play room needed some new to treat their two and a half year toys and decided to go for it." Jackie and Richard with play worker Jan Davidson, centre, after a trip to Toys 'R Us in early September to choose the items needed

Wh # i t .A

could a Fordmontague conservatory do for yourfamiy l?

Dear Fordmontague,

'After receiving last month's Link magazine I felt I just had to tell you about my Fordmontague conservatory. It certainly was best value for my money. Mike the salesman insisted he wouldn't be beaten on price but equally said he wouldn't offer me the cheapest quality either. "My conservatory is a great place to relax now the autumn is coming I can still enjoy the garden. -

"Winter means the children will have to be indoors quite a lot of the time Mrs K my conservatory will be a blessing in disguise. -

Mr K's opinion "Yes, and it's not cold in there either These slimline heaters are really effective. They're as thick as myfinger not obtrusive at all. "Christmas is going to be great. I can shut myself away from the noise (and relatives), what a relief. Thanks Mr Montague." We at Fordmontague are committed to offering the best value for your money and we will not be beaten on price. For an informal chat about your needs, and no obligation, free quotation, give us a call. -

77 k,~

~Z D MONTAGUE

CONSERVATORY & WINDOW CONSULTANTS 48 High Street,Wootton Bassett â€˘ Tel: (0 1793) 849832 Open Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm

AT YOUR LIBRARY

Books for adults and teenagers

PHILIP STONE

Now that summer is behind us and winter evenings are drawing in, what could be better than curling up with a good book, writes Group

PAINTER & DECORATOR

Librarian Joyce Kirk-Brown.

DAY NURSERY

For a high standard of work References available Telephone now for a FREE ESTIMATE

Under new management and staff team For children aged 3 - 5 years NNEB qualified staff Breakfast, Lunch & Tea provided Pre-school room All this for £65 per week or £7 per session

Tel: 870515 or Mobile 0374 - 208527

Tel: (01793) 532059

Vre&s'ed Jor t& Occath2n/ + Handmade gowns and cocktail wear for sale or hire •• Velvet evening capes ". All sizes including maternity For an appointment, call Hilary on I (01666) 510306. I

10 minutes from Swindon. Easy Parking.

You could borrow a gardening book to plan next year's campaign, or a travel book to dream about next year's holiday, or just escape for a while with the latest blockbuster. If you've always meant to join the library but are not sure how to go about it, nothing could be simpler. All we need to see is something with your name and address on it, for instance a driver's licence, family allowance book, a bill or a letter. It's completely free to join and if you have a membership card for another computerised branch you can use that card at West Swindon Library. Anyone under 16 will need a parent or guardian to sign their membership card for them, as well as proof of address.

Teen Week Readers aged 13 to 19 who borrow a book on their own card during the week 21 to 26 October will be entered into a special prize draw.

The winner will be announced at our Cyber Cafe teenage open day, Wednesday 23 October, 2pm to 8pm. It should be an exciting event with special guests and music for all tastes. Call in for a detailed programme. Come and check out what the library offers. The proposed 'Youth Quake' teen magazine sounds exciting (see story on page 3). We have asked Kerry Porter and Teresa Barclay who have come up with the idea to come to the teen evening where interested young people will be able to talk to them about the project.

Some new books to watch out for Tessa Barclay Saturday Girl. Tom Sharpe The Midden. The usual rumbustious mix we've Lovely saga set in the 1930s. Frederick Forsyth Icon. Political come to expect. Emma Tennant Tara. Sequel to thriller set in the near future. Miss Read A Peaceful Retirement. the sequel of Gone with the Wind! This seems an unlikely prospect Emma Tennant's sequels to Jane for the redoubtable Miss Read. Austen were very talented.

At Moredon Library in Church Walk North A graphic novel collection for teenagers will be launched on Monday 21 October and there will displays of Boxx magazine, plus cool teenage books to takeaway. A collection of Issues for the 90s will be also on be available. Look out for these special events:

CHOOSE AT HOME BLINDS

Thursday 24 October, 630pm - Thursday 30 October, 630pm -

Buy direct from the Manufacturer VERTICAL VENETIAN ROLLER DOMESTIC or COMMERCIAL

Charity shop raises first 5k

730pm Demonstration and talk on 730pm Teenager Halloween hormake-up tips and how to look good ror story night. Read your favourby the Body Shop ite story or bring a good one in.

5 YEAR GUARANTEE - FAST DELIVERY FREE MEASURE & FIT BY OUR LOCAL AGENT

PHONE ANYTIME. MALMESBURY (01666) 812680 g,

out] oo,uu

to all Link readers on all framing and arts & crafts products and selected pictures in gallery

001 O1" /0

Cut out this advert and take it along to Ttinleys (offers end 31 October 1996) • * * *

All types of framing (trade & retail) Graphic materials/ art materials Pictures for sale including original oils, water colours and prints and posters Specialist limited editions, signed prints including David Shepherd, Sir William Russell-Flint etc

Tunleys, 40-41 Fleet Street, Swindon. Tel: 522152 • .-. L10uu

Est 1880! OfluuAuu,3ao,uaoD

00000

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Relate volunteers celebrate,from left, Jean Show, Sheila White, Jackie Cross, Sue Preston and Thamesdown Relate manager Jane Lewis

A new charity shop would like to say a big 'thank you' to all the people who have helped with its expansion. The Thamesdown Relate shop nated items to the shop, and all at Regent Circus, Swindon, oppo- those who have come in to buy." site the Town Hall, has raised over Donations of adult and chil£5,000 in the four months since dren's clothing, books and houseopening. Relate manager Jane hold items are always welcomed. Lewis said thatall the moneyraised Volunteers are also needed so goes to the well used relationship that the shop can open longer couselling service. "We would like hours. Call 527664 if you can offer to thank everybody who has do- some time.

RECREATION

Sonics confident for new basketball season Mike Lewis reports The Swindon Sonics Basketball Club began their 1996 season on 8 September with a game against Ware Rebels at the Link Centre in the National Cup Competition. Showth.

Copy Ware, a division one team, proved of The C nand to be too strong for the Sonics, Child 'fl free to a running out 108 - 56 winners but CS ga Sonic's coach Graham Chambers was not too downhearted. "As a team we played much better than last season with the promise of better to come. Our squad has increased since last season with quality players, some still to play! Morale has also been boosted by the donation of a new kit from Cass Sports in Wroughton and a deal on the horizon with Dominos Pizza." The Sonic's next home games at Link Centre are: 6 October against Slough, and 13 October against South Bank. Jump ball for both games is 4pm. A child gets in free if you bring this copy of The Link. The Sonics are also involved with the Swindon Basketball Association's coaching at the Link Centre on Saturdays and Sundays. Come on down at the times shown below. Today's beginners will be Sonic's forward Carl Williams in action at the Ware game tomorrow's players.

Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters • Doubles also available Free installation and local delivery Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052)

at giC..*.. Grange Farm Nurseries Winter Pansies, Bulbs & Heathers, Fruit Trees, Roses, Herbaceous Perennials, Trees, Shrubs, Conifers

SALE: BUSH ROSES HALF PRICE Not just a Garden Centre - more a gardeners' paradise Stockists of unusual and hard to find varieties Open daily at Haydon End Lane, off Lady Lane, Haydon Wick

Tel: 721221

QUALITY AND INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION IN THE HEART OF THE COTSWOLDS

Saturday programme

£1.00 1115am - 1230pm Mini basketball 7- 11 years Mixed coaching 11 - 13 years £1.00 12.30pm - 2.00pm Mixed coaching 13- 16 years £1.00 2.00pm - 3.00pm Wheelchair basketball, disabled & able bodies 3.50pm - 530pm Sunday programme LUX.ouc

RENDCOMB COLLEGE

Swindon Sonics home games (call 445566 for dates) spectators welcome Ladies coaching £1.50 630pm - 800pm £2.00 Veterans basketball 800pm - 1000pm If you've been inspired by the skills of some of the world's highest paid athletes on Channel 4's coverage of NBA games, Link Centre is the place to start. For more information call Nikki Green on 511033

A co-educational independent school for 11 to 18 year olds

Throwing for a good cause

OPEN DAY

400pm - 630pm

West Swindon Judo Club held a sponsored throw on 11 September in aid of 11 year old judo player Katie Barlow from Yeovil who suffers from a rare condition, Reflex Sympathy Dystrophy. Thirty juniors and adults spent the evening trying out a variety of throwing techniques as part of the club's usual training session at Salt Way primary school, Middleleaze. A total of £600 was raised New members are always welcomed. To find out more about West Swindon Judo Club, call Graham or Sue Turner on 873642. Throwing time, from left, Sam and Tom Ellis, James Starbuck and Daniel Boucher, Kerry Boucher and Roxanne Jarvis, Niall Thielen and Lewis Taylor, James Gough and Daniel Whiting

SATURDAY 5th OCTOBER 10.00amto 12.30pm COME AND SEE THE SCHOOL AT WORK Find out how your child could benefit from our excellent facilities for academic studies, art, drama, music and sport. Please telephone for more information on 01285 831213 or fax us on 01285 831331

Rendcomb College, Nr. Cirencester GL7 711A E mail rendcomb@dircon.co.uk We are 5 miles from Cirencester on the A435 to Cheltenham Rendcomb College is a Registered Educational Charity No. 311713

RECREATION

SERVICING & REPAIRS BY HOOVER TRAI NED ENGINEER

J.F.K. BUILDING SERVICES

Repairs to most makes of: / Washing Machines / Dryers / Dishwashers / Microwaves / Vacuum Cleaners

Extensions, Alterations Refurbishments Patios, Block Paving, Fencing

All General Building Work

John Phillips Servicing

Tel: Mr J. F. Keenan (01793) 727824

No VAT to pay

25 years experience All work guaranteed

Tel: 526656 or 827804

cc '0:510e

LINK CENTRE

Ready for half term? The autumn school break is only a few weeks away and Link Centre is ready, writes Recreation Trainee Becky Ford. minutes between 9am and lOam. Half Term Holiday camp Calling all children aged between All children who take part will 5 and 12 for fun and games. Holi- receive one free entrance to the day camp will once again be run- freestyle session which starts at ning during half term. Activities lOam. This session gives younginclude a treasure hunt and Hal- sters a chance to get in the water loween party hour with tricks and for games and watersports. treats for all campers. The prices Link closures remain the same and registration Link Centre will be closed on Monstarts on Sunday 13 October from day 14 October from 9am to 1pm 630pm. Places are stricly limited. for staff training. The pool is also unavailable for all public sessions Swim Swindon As part of the Swim Swindon on Saturday 5 October due to a scheme there will be a swim school swimming gala. For more information on the running during half term week. Sessions will be on Monday, Tues- above, please phone main recepday, Thursday and Friday for 30 tion on 445566.

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Halloween Challenge

games and prizes

FREE skate hire with invite FREE £1 Cola Bar voucher for everyone in fancy dress Prizes for best costume Recreation Services

Cost: Adults £3. Juniors £2.40, plus skate hire

THAMESDOWN

Whitehill Way, Swindon Tel: (01793) 445566

BOROUGH COUNCIL

Half term footie courses Football coach Paul Mutlow from Grange Park is a running a one day course at Freshbrook School on Wednesday 30 October for 5 to 14s and take place. On Thursday 31 October, there will be a girls only course run in association with Shaw Football Club at Freshbrook School. Times for both days are 9am to 3pm. To book a place, call Paul on 871464. Left: Paul with keen players at his summer training day, Hannah Povey and Rachel Cejer,front, William Clark, Dan Tomkins, David Brown

X VS YOUR CHILD A EJD BET WEE N 3A ND 6 VR3 ?

EM LEIGH CHILDS SCHOOL OF

1* 0

N D 0 The hei ght of tnTning

DO YOU WANT IMPROVE THEIR * DISCIPLINE? * CONFIDENCE? * SELF-CONTROL? Then call Leigh on 01793 433896

This is

GRE ENDOWN A Newsletter from West Swindon's Local School â€˘ October 1996

Thanks to Royal Mail We are very grateful for the sponsorship by Royal Mail in helping us celebrate our tenth anniversary with a new logo. The in-school competition winner was Sam Bennett from Show, now in year 8, whose design was enhanced by graphic artists from Swindon College School of Art.

Royall /M\aII L

Another Good Year's Results The hard work of Greendown's school leavers has again been rewarded with good GCSE results. 45% of the year 11 students achieved at least 5 higher grade passes, with 70% gaining at least one higher grade pass. 45 students - over a quarter of the year group - gained 8, 9 or 10 higher grade passes. Over 36 of the highest, A* grades, were achieved across the year group. Amongst the star individuals was Potty Benford, who achieved eight A* grades, with an A and a B. Polly put in steady effort throughout her time at Greendown, and shared last year's Paula Brooks Award for outstanding effort. One of Polly's A* grades was for Art. Her work was displayed with other superb examples at the Greendown Art Exhibition in July. Thirteen students achieved A grades in Art, 5 of which were A* grades; the standard of work displayed was very high and remarkably consistent. Emma Kingstone, who has featured in This is Greendown because of her England hockey recognition, achieved success in examinations too, with 7 A* and 3 A grades. Eran Palti, who passed GCSE Maths in year 10, achieved an A grade at AS level Mathematics to go with his 4 A*,

Star student Polly Benford with her A* from the July art exhibition

(SCE work

Tim heads for Oxford We are pleased to see our high-achieving students go on to still further success. Tim West, from Freshbrook, who featured in This is Greendown two years ago, has gained 3 A grade A levels at New College and has been accepted at Exeter College, Oxford, to read Law. Tim found an interest in law while in year 9 and was encouraged to aim for Oxford by his tutor, Mr Bob Linnegar, who recognised his potential. By contacting Oxford, Mr Linnegar was able to indicate what Tim needed to do. After four years of hard work, with the help of Greendown and New College staff, Tim has achieved his goal. Tim 'goes up' at the beginning of October, and we wish him continued success.

3 A and 2 B grades. Dylan Parry also passed AS level Maths, together with A grades in every subject. Rachel Lawrence was another outstanding individual, achieving 5 A, 4 A and a B. Ian Matthews, the Headteacher, was very pleased with the success of all students. "I am delighted that our academically able students - who worked very hard - achieved such outstanding individual results. I am also pleased that so many of our students were rewarded for their efforts. Every year group is different, and when these students joined us in 1991, a quarter of the year group were identified by County as having special needs - a high proportion - but the results are expected to be above the national average. It reflects the hard work of the students, the commitment of the teachers and the support of parents."

This is Greendown â€˘ 2

More Popular Than Ever Greendown is celebrating its tenth birthday with two excellent presents - our highest roll and our largest ever intake. 230 children and their parents made Greendown their first choice this year, and we are delighted to welcome them. Although our 'standard number is 210, we have been able to accommodate all our first choice students. We have the classrooms and facilities to give them the high quality education they have chosen. Our numbers have topped 900 for the first time, and we are making good progress towards capacity. Our building maintenance team have been busy getting new rooms ready to meet the demands of the larger numbers and our teaching staff have spent months planning the curriculum to ensure every individual fulfils their potential.

Library clerkJenny Eagle explaining in September how new year 7 students can make best use of Greendown's excellent resource centre

Working closely with primary schools

Carla Laney reading her work to a Windmill Hill pupil

Greendown has always tried to build upon the work done at primary school. We have featured a number of joint projects in previous years: the Primary Science Laboratory, P.E. links and Education 2000 continue to prosper. In the summer, Primary Liaison Coordinator Tim Noble and our Art teachers worked with Oliver Tomkins Junior School and Brook Field School. Mr Noble is currently working with Brook Field School and Lydiard Park on a play about the golden cavalier in St Mary's Church.

Awards for high acheivers Our end of year assembly in July had much to celebrate. The final award was, as for the past two years, the Paula Brooks award for outstanding and consistent endeavour. Two students tied for the honour: Emma Kingstone, of year 11 and Charon Goindi of year 9. Emma always made time for schoolwork even when her hockey demanded high commitment, and her impressive GCSE results reflect her excellent attitude as well as her ability. Emma has gone on to New College; she hopes to reach the England under 18 hockey team. Charon, left, has worked consistently throughout the year, and has impressed all staff with his attitude and good humour. His effort has been reflected in clear progress in lessons, and he also gained a place in the school cricket team.

The English department once again asked year 8 students to write for a real audience by creating books for primary children. One group went to Windmill Hill School and met year 2 children. They returned with their books, which included requests from the year 2 readers. All the reception children from Tregoze Primary

School came up to Greendown where other groups read their stories and set up linked activities. As the National Curriculum places greater emphasis on continuity, so Greendown gives primary liaison still greater importance. Mr Noble is setting up a team of teachers to ensure our close work continues.

Poets perform in public Greendown students were active in last June's Swindon Literature Festival. In the past, we have had visits and readings from published poets. This year, students went into Swindon and read their own poems in public. Year 7 students visited the Link Centre library, below, to read their own compositions and favourite poems. Year 9 and 10 students, who had written poetry at our residential weekend at Braeside, read aloud at a festival

gathering in Old Town Gardens. The quality of some of the poems was exceptional - a mixture of humour and power, with clear personal voices evident in the writing. Other interesting activities in English included a visit by Brian Glover and the Canterbury Tales cast as part of our lower school work on Chaucer and mediaeval English. Year 9 enjoyed workshops on Romeo andJuliet as part of their study of Shakespeare.

This is Greendown • 3

Bringing forth musical talents 1-2

Music at Greendown goes from strength to strength. The Music School has expanded yet again, with 147 students now receiving tuition from 8 instrumental teachers. Tuition is available in singing and ten instruments, from flute, violin and piano to electric guitar or euphonium! Two new practice rooms have been built over the summer to make more space for music teaching. The Greendown windband practises weekly, and Mr André Psyancyn, our Head of Music, is expanding the string orchestra this year.

Left: Our classical musicians entertained parents and friends at their summer concert

We have some very talented performers in Greendown. In the summer, our musicians performed two very different evening shows. The first was a 'rock' night which was so popular that the audience demanded three encores! The second night was a classical night of string and woodwind music which was also greatly appreciated by the audience. We hope to expand these shows this year. In September we welcomed sixty new year 7 musicians; so there is plenty of talent coming through!

Right: The rock students at their summer concert - and the crowd screamed out for more!

Collection captures CD Rom computer Our students and their parents enthusiastically collected ASDA vouchers last term and gained us a brand new Pentium computer with laser printer and stack of CD Roms for our resource centre.

Below: Chris Howe, deputy customer services manager, front, and Lynda Hatfield, general store manager's secretary, from ASDA present deputy headteacher Phil May and upper and lower school students with the new equipment.

Into the future We run at least two foreign language trips each year to France and Spain. These working trips are designed to be accessible and affordable, and over a quarter of our students have been abroad with Greendown. Last summer's trip to La Rochelle was as successful as the spring visit to Rosas in Spain. Students visited Futuroscope, the Ile D'Oléron, Roman remains at Saintes, and the Hennessy Cognac factory. They also watched the European Cup semi-final against Germany on French television with another party - from Germany!

k".0 This is Greendown â€˘ 4 Neighbourhood Engineers demonstrate challenges from the world of work In July, Greendown held an Engineering Day to show year 10 the possibilities and attractions of the world of engineering. The event was organised by the Technology department and Parent Governor, Gordon Watt, with the assistance of our Neighbourhood Engineers group. National Power, Galileo and Royal Mail kindly sent staff who set up a variety of projects for the students. These included designing and making kites and gliders, assembling a radio, making a geodesic globe and creating water rockets. Each student received a certificate on the completion of their project.

Parent governor and Neighbourhood Engineer Gordon Watt helps year 10 students construct a geodesic globe

Greendown is very grateful to the teachers and local engineers who put in such hard work. Our link with New College, the West Swindon Technology Centre, takes another step forward this term with the start of GNVQ Engineering. This course for New College students, is taught at the school by New College and Greendown staff. Greendown has started a GCSE in Engineering and we are becoming a centre of expertise in this area. Our links with the Neighbourhood Engineers continue to help us, and another Engineering Day is planned for next year.

Training sports stars of the future Greendown is not a selective school, for we wish to offer a high quality of education to all West Swindon children. We are pleased, however, that sport is one reason that many children select us. We have excellent facilities, with our Sports Hall, gym, weights room and astroturf, and can provide our students with team games all the year round. We offer regular activities, coaching and team competition in rugby, hockey, football, netball, basketball, gymnastics, athletics, cricket and rounders.

Sports teacher Tony Doran conducts a lunch time rugby coaching session with year 8 boys

Other sports are catered for through lunch time and afterschool clubs and enrichment sessions: volleyball, swimming, skating, running and badminton. There are league competitions in all major sports. We offer sport for all students, and also give our full support to the development of outstanding youngsters. Greendown students have represented England at football, hockey, cross-country and figure skating. Wiltshire has selected Greendown students for football, rugby, hockey, netball, cross-country, gymnastics, badminton and athletics.

Students organise charity workout Greendown is West Swindon's Community School catering for local families and a wide range of community groups. We always make visitors very welcome and are happy to give parents tours of the school. For more information please contact, Primary parents: Tim Noble Other parents: Steve O'Sullivan Community use and bookings: Margaret May

Tel: (0 1793) 874224

Greendown students continue to work for charity, and demonstrate our motto, "Think of the Other Person". Last term, a group of year 10 girls organised a sponsored aerobics session to support a youngster with cerebral palsy, and persuaded their friends and some teachers to get fit for charity. Our non-uniform days also raised ÂŁ1000, shared between The Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Barnardo's and the Prospect Hospice.

'This is Greendown' is published by Greendown Community School under contract with The Link Magazine

:THE DANCE HOUSE Ellendune COmmunity • Centre, Wroughton Saturday 19.October

CAPTAIN SWiN THE LINK MAGAZINES GUIDE TO WHAT'S ON IN AND AROUND SWINDON

Cycling in Swindon: public meeting Cyclists in the town are invited to a meeting organised by the Swindon Bike Group at the Link Centre on Thursday 31 October, 7pm. There will be a presentation of slides showing the growth of bike routes in and around the town over the last few years.

The Bike Group wants people to join it and support the call to the new Swindon Council to appoint a cycling officer. Without one, cyclists needs may be lost between departments and new routes may not be included in future plans. Left: Anne Billingham of the Bike Group at the Old Town railwaycycle path mural

Kids prepare for big show

• Tickets: £6, Cone, £4 Under 12s £1, Family ticket £15 Ticketson door (if not sold out) or send cheque and SAE to The Dance House 131 Goddard Avenue, Swindon L: or call 64j107.

Children of all ages who attend Old Towns Tanwood School of Dance are practicising hard fortheirannual show at the Wyvern Theatre. Tickets for the fifty second Tanwood Show, from 6 to 9 November, are available from the box office, telephone 524481.

anwoodT Established 1944

Beatles arrive at last The fab four never made it to the town in the 60's, but Pete Best, the original Beatles drummer, will be at the Arts Centre with his band on 19 October. And there's a chance to see Swindon's own Ludwig Beatles, below, recreating the unique mop top sound in their 'Get Back' tour at the Wyvern on Monday 4 November. Contact the venues for ticket details.

Venues celebrate Swindon's two theatres will soon be celebrating anniversaries. A special screening of the 1956 classic High Society on 21 October at the Old Town Arts Centre marks the beginning of fortieth birthday celebrations in November which includes film, concerts, evenings with personalities and a surprise concert planned for 15 November. Full listings will appear next month. The Wyvern Theatre holds a Silver Celebration to mark 25 years with a concert by local drama, dance and choral societies on 10 October. Ticket details are given overleaf.

46 - 48 Bath Road Old Town Our kindergarten school, the oldest & most established in the area, offers a high standard of work and constructive play for 3 year old's to 'Rising Fives' We are open daily during school terms. Doors open at 9am, children working from 9.30am- 1130am Fees: £100 per 10 week term or £2.50 per morning. Optional extras: dance and French classes. Holiday weeks: £10 per week For details of places, ,,please call (01793) 523895,,

ALAN CLAYTON for EFFECTIVE PRODUCTIONS LTD Present in Concert

JIM DAVIDSON Plus Special Guest HILARY O'NEILL

OASIS LEISURE CENTRE WEDNESDAY 16th OCTOBER Doors open 7pm. Show 8pm • Tickets £13.50, £12.50, £10.50

Box Office: (01793) 445401

Swindon Wide

CROSSWAYS PET & GARDEN

Until 26 January 1997 Exhibition Cinemas of Swindon. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, Bath Road, Mon - Sat 10am - 530pm, Sun For all your pet 2pm - 530pm. Free & garden needs Until December Exhibition From Steam to Diesel, a Stockists of: look at the Swindon Works. Railway IAMS, Eukanuba, co Museum, Faringdon Road, lOam Hills Science Diet 5pm, Sunday 2pm - 5pm. Adults Available now £2.30, Juniors £1 Baby rabbits, guinea pigs, Wednesday 2 October Hamster, Budgies Drama Shakespere's The Tempest Open 7 days a week Wyvern, 730pm. £7 Free local delivery for your area Thursday 3 October 537 Cricklade Road, Swindon Music Bournemouth Symphonietta (near the Moonrakers) present Vivaldi's Four Seasons & Mozart's Symphony No 41 in C. Tel: (01793) 700170 Wyvern, 730pm. £14, £12, £10 Friday 4 October Try our superb menu Comedy Phil Cool. 5 course meal Wyvern, £13.50 per head 730pm. £9.50, £8.50 * Repairs to most types Comedy of showers Charlie * Electric showers installed Chuck, right now being taken Arts Centre, * Pumped power showers 8pm. £7.50 * Gravity showers Saturday 5 October Menu available on request installed Gardening Pot Pourri - summer Fully Licensed * Showers up-graded scents and colour can be brought in from the garden for winter by making ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS pot pourri. Moredon Gardens, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., 2pm. All A&M SERVICES materials provided, allow 2 hours, © (01793) 874240 book in advance on 523294, £6 Children Budgie's Magic Adventure. Wyvern, 1pm. £5 Comedy Bob Downe - Greatest HANDMADE FIREPLACES Hits. Wyvern, 8pm. £10 Music The Yetties with Fred WedWe offer: lock - a touch of the West Country. o A free design service Gas appliance maintenance Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 O Choice of brick or stone & repair specialists Sunday 6 October O Traditional or Modern Installation, servicing and Music Peter Karrie in Beyond The o TV Shelves & Video Units Mask. A selection of pieces from repair to all gas appliances major West End musicals. Wyvern, & central heating Tel: (01793) 535291 730pm. £9, £8 Monday 7 October Drama Twelfth Night. Wyvern, 730pm. £8 - Tuesday 8 October Music Pudsey's Super Sixties Show ee our display at presented by BBC Wiltshire Sound. /77T1G.A. DAY Wyvern, 730pm. £5, £4 BUILDERS MERCHANTS Hawksworth Estate 9 October Tel: (01793) 873060 Wednesday near the OasisL...-' Comedy The Weather Show - a humorous outlook by Bill Giles. Wyvern, 730pm. £8.50, £7.50 Thursday 10 October THE Silver celebration of The Wyvern, Local music and drama societies, and dance schools celebrate 25 years of Swindon's theatre. 730pm. £8. All proceeds to charity & GAS SHOWROOM Drama Entertaining Mr Sloane preFIREPLACES sented by The Old Town Theatre GAS EFFECT FIRES Company. Arts Centre, 730pm, not suitable for children. £4 ELECTRIC FIRES Music Concert by the Kentwood MULTIFUEL STOVES Choir in aid of church and Kentwood FLUE SYSTEMS AND funds. Immanuel Church, Upham Road, Old Walcot, 7.30pm. £3, chilACCESSORIES dren £1.50 Friday 11 October 1 Rodbourne Road, Swindon Dance Candoco Dance Company. Tel: (0 1793) 612288 Wyvern, 8pm. £10, £6, £4

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Saturday 12 October Music Dolgellau and Swindon Male Voice Choirs. Wyvern, 730pm. £7 Sunday 13 October Plant Sale Sale of pansies, polyanthus, wallflowers, sweet williams, bulbs etc. Moredon Gardens, Cheney Manor Ind. Est., 10am - 2pm Music George Melly plus John Chiltern's Feetwarmers - jazz, blues, humour and showmanship. Wyvern, 8pm. £12.50, £11.50 Monday 14 October Music The Music Club presents SYM Consort. Arts Centre, 7.45pm. Monday 14 October & Tuesday 15 October Children Rainbow Days in Nursery Rhyme Land. Wyvern, Mon 330pm, Tues lOam & 1pm. £6 Tuesday 15 October Illustrated talk on The Secret Wood by author, David Boag, organised by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust. Croft Centre, Marlborough Lane (next to the Marriott), 730pm Wednesday 16 October Comedy Greg Proops. Wyvern, 8pm. £10

53 Devizes Road Swindon Tel: (01793) 521515

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Thursday 17 October Music Wayne Sleep, above, and Lorna Luft sing and dance 'Hollywood and Broadway - The Musicals in Concert'. Wyvern, 430pm, 8pm. 430pm show £13.50 & £11.50, 8pm show £15.50 & £13.50 Music The Music Makers. Arts Centre, 730pm. £2.50, all proceeds to the Prospect Foundation Friday 18 October Music Showaddywaddy. Wyvern, 730pm. £13.50 Comedy Ardal O'Hanlon, star of Channel 4's Father Ted. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50

UNDEI OM PETITION Vi n I•wo pairs of tickets tC) Se e

Mr. Men in Musicland at the Wyvern Theafre'

on Thursday 31 October, 2pm. E)raw and colour a picture of your favourite Mr M n characters.

Send it to The Link, Mr Me 13 Castle Dare, Freshbrook, Swindori SNS SPQ by 21 Octobei

October overview Saturday 19 October Music The Pete Best Band. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7 Comedy John Shuttleworth, right, Wyvern, 8pm. £9, £8 Sunday 20 October Music American Pie. Wyvern, 8pm. £10, £9 Drama Matters Matrimonial starring Wendy Craig and Francis Matthews. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £12 Tuesday 22 October Drama A Clockwork Orange presented by Fizz Theatre Company. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £6.50 Thursday 24 October to Saturday 2 November Music Swindon Amateur Light Operatic Society presents Showboat. Wyvern, 730pm, matinees 26 Oct & 2 Nov at 230pm. From £6.50 Friday 25 October Comedy Steve Steen as The Blues Brother. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Saturday 26 October Drama Pride & Prejudice presented by Snap Theatre Company. Arts Centre, 730pm. £7.50

Monday 28 October Music The Music Club presents Cheryl Enever (soprano). Arts Centre, 7.45pm

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27 Bath Road Old Town Train to Gain! Thursday 31 October Children Mr Men in Music Land. Wyvern, 11am & 2pm. £6.50 Comedy Jimeoin. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Friday 1 November Children Red Riding Hood presented by the Playboard Puppets. Arts Centre, 2pm & 430pm. £4.50

Film at Swindon Arts Centre, Old Town strikes an improbable friendship with Wednesday 2 October, 7.45pm great poet Pablo Neruda when he is Land and Freedom (15) Story of young Liverpudlian commu- hired as a postman on a small Italian nist in 1936 Spain fighting for the Island where Neruda is exiled. SFS. Republicans against Franco. Swin- Monday 21 October, 7.45pm don Film Society presentation. High Society (U) Screening of 1956 classic to mark the Arts Centre 40th birthday. £2.50 Wednesday 23 October & Thursday 24 October, 7.45pm Leaving Las Vegas (18) Terminal alcoholic (Oscar winning Nicolas Cage) goes to Las Vegas to drink himself to death, but falls in love with a prostitute -superbly played by Elisabeth Shue. £3.50 Tuesday 29 October, 7.45pm Smoke (15) Paul McGann and Richard E. Grant An entertaining and engrossing film in Withnail & I (Photo: BFI Stills) centred around the tales of Brooklyn cigar store customers. £3.50 Thursday 3 October, 7pm Withnail and 1(15) Wednesday 30 October Special screening of this funny, very Small Faces (18) English cult classic, with live intro- Portrays life and times of a group of duction from Ralph Brown. £4 teenagers in late 60s in Govan, Glasgow. This film sheds a critical look at Wednesday 16 October, 7.45pm the only ways of escape from poverty II Postino (U), Italy Shy, simple minded fisherman's son and violence. SFS.

-Are you readyfor the Job Market?

)"CACtP&C0CA

Tandoori and Balti Restaurant Visit the out of town Tandoori and receive a warm welcome from Mr Ali and his family 6 High Street, Purton, Swindon Fully Licenced Restaurant Open 7 days a week (inc. all Bank Holidays except Xmas Day) 530pm - 12 midnight

Tel: (01793) 770253 Takeaway Service now available: 10% discount

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FORTHCOMING ATTRACTIONS INCLUDE: Friday 4th October, 8pm Cult Comedian, Charlie Chuck Saturday 5th October, 8pm The Yetties and Fred Wedlock Saturday 19th October, 8pm Ex Beatle, The Pete Best Band Sunday 20th October, 7.30pm Matters Matrimonial starring Wendy Craig and Francis Matthews Tuesday 22nd October, 7.30pm Fizz Theatre Company: A Clockwork Orange Saturday 26th October, 7.30pm Snap Theatre Company: Pride and Prejudice Thursday 31st October, 8pm Jimeoin, the Irish comic from Australia Saturday 2nd November, 8pm LINDISFARNE, untapped and acoustic

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Leisure Services

Also Wednesday class at Warneford School, Highworth

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An Experience for everyone.. For a great night out... The Chinese Experience offers a three course meal & disco on Friday evening for just £15. Taste our unique, authentic atmosphere at the heart of West Swindon, or try,

The alternative Sunday lunch For a more unusual weekend treat at only £10 per person, we can offer an appetising meal for you and your family.

Can't get out for a meal? Great Chinese Experience cuisine in your own home. Drop in or 'phone for a takeaway and we'll quickly have it ready for collection.

Christmas bookings now being taken (5 courses and Chinese cabaret with disco at only £25 per person.

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The Link Magazine. October 1996

Home Tuition for SATs, GCSEs and Special Needs

English, Maths & Science offered by experienced teacher

Tel: 872411 Le fricinso"Is ,

FRENCH LESSONS • • • •

Age range 5 - 85 From first words to GCSE Taught by French native Classes from home and in local schools, after school and in holidays Contact Pascale Watson on 870549

Route into office work If you're looking for a future in an office, or are returning to work after a break to bring up children, two Link magazine advertisers offer training in a whole range of office and administrative skills. BS Secretarial & Computer Training Centre in Milton Road provides full and part time courses in word processing, graphics, spreadsheets, manual or computerised book keeping, shorthand and typing. There are crash courses to quickly pick up skills, or brush up on those which have become rusty. The centre is open daily and on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. BS Training Centre at 26 Milton Road can be contacted on 610731. Future Business College in Old Town also offers a wide range of very flexible computer and office skills courses. Tuition is by an audio-instruction system which means students can start at any time and learning can be pursued at the student's own pace. Future Business College is found at 27 Bath Road. Tel: 488518.

Youth info shop open A free, confidential information open for business. The Information and Help for Young People service, based at the Link Centre Youth Unit, provides information to take away. It can also be a signpost towards organisations providing deeper advice, counselling and practical help. Set up by the Wiltshire Youth Service, with backing from BT, young people will be able to gain information on lots of things, from Aids to Xclusion, Benefits to Unemployment.

service for young people is now Young people can drop in to the Link Youth Unit which fronts on to the car park, on the corner of the Link Centre, past the library entrance. Open times: Monday 4pm - 6pm, 7pm - 9pm Tuesday 12noon - 2pm Wednesday 8pm - 10pm Thursday 4pm - 6pm, 7pm - 10pm Friday 12noon - 2pm For more information, call the Link Youth Unit on 877963.

Know your options at big exhibition for all ages City and Guilds? BTEC? NVQ? Directions Training? A' levels? GNVQ? RSA? Modern Apprenticeships? What does it all mean? Are you really aware of your options?, writes Louise Smith of Lifetime Careers Wiltshire.

If you're looking for a route into the job market, acquiring office skills could be a good idea. Give BS Training and Future a call.

organised by Lifetime

AW Careers

Education, training and employment advice and information at the Oasis

ns For students and adults of all ages. Come and discuss your future with the experts. We look forward to seeing you. supported by

Education Training & Employment Exhibition The Oasis, Swindon Wednesday 9th October 1996 11 .00am - 8.00pm Admission Free

Lifetime Careers Wiltshire are staging their annual Options Education, Training and Employment exhibition at the Oasis Leisure Centre on Wednesday 9 October. The exhibition will include over 60 stands with representatives from educational institutions, (local universities and Further Education colleges), major local employers, training organisations and Lifetime Careers. Stand holders will be available to offer advice and information about the opportunities on offer. Last year, the exhibition attracted a record 3,329 visitors. School and college leavers, job changers and those returning to work face a confusing array of options. The exhibition aims to provide a forum for young people and adults to find out about these options and to make the most of them. To provide further help there will be a team of experienced and qualified careers staff on hand who can provide impartial advice and explain the various possibilities and routes.

Looking at the options briefly, in education alone there are many types of courses: part and full time, open learning, work related, academic and leisure interest. The course you choose depends on your reason for study; do you wish to completely retrain? are you looking to acquire new skills to help you in your job? would you like to take up a new interest? Employment and training offer further options, such as jobs with training opportunities, Modern Apprenticeships and Directions Training programmes. These offer work based training leading to a recognised qualification. Trainees are paid an allowance whilst undertaking the training. If you would like to find out what is available generally, or you would like help with making choices, come along to the exhibition between 11am and 8pm. Admission is free to everybody. For further details please contact Angela Williams, exhibition organiser, Lifetime Career Centre, Temple Street, Swindon on 549200.

The Link Magazine ' October 1996

Consider the charges when renting out your property?

PREMIER PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 31 QUEENBOROUGH, Toomiu. SWINDON SN5 8DY

It will pay to shop around to reduce your costs says Bill Muir of Premier Property Management. Property owners considering renting out their homes have a number of things to consider when choosing which company to use. Most property management services are basically the same. Of course some agents will offer a more professional service and will be better at delivering what clients are looking for than others. Certainly the wise property owner will choose an established company. This is a competitive business and there are a lot of new companies and franchises that appear to come and go. A property owner will want to be reassured that the company they use at the outset will still be around at the end of the tenancy. The other major consideration for the property owner must be the cost of management services. If you look around the various companies in the market you will be

quoted anything between 10% and 15% for full management of the property. For a property with a rental value of £500 per month, it will cost, at 10%, £600 per year and £900 at 15%. However, this is generally not all of the costs, as most companies will charge set up costs for finding a tenant or advertising the property, for preparation of a tenancy agreement, and for an inventory. In some companies these costs can add up to £300. Sometimes they are payable for each new tenant, and when you add on VAT the true cost of their full management service is anywhere between 20% and 25% of rental income. Where companies charge for handling maintenance, then their management service cost is even higher. With these large sums involved, it really is worth looking closely at charging structures.

PROPERTY OWNERS

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Free property list available

ESTATE S AGENTS

193

(Day or Eve)

Li (i±iL!i

TAYLORS

A major change in DSS benefits was made last year which has had serious effects on house owners with mortgages, writes Mike Rees of West Swindon based mortgage and insurance brokers Mansfield Begbie Associates People who lose their jobs now will not have the interest paid by the DSS in the same way as before. Until October 1995 interest was paid in full from three months following loss of job. Most lenders viewed this situation with some degree of leniency, as two to three months arrears would not usually give rise to further action, particularly if they were kept informed. However, for all new mortgages taken out since October 1995, the DSS does not pay interest for the first nine months. Unless suitable mortgage payment protection insurance is in place, covering redundancy (plus sickness and accident), you can understand why lenders will not allow arrears to rise to this amount, leading to fears that the number of repossessions will start to go back up over the next few years. This form of Mortgage Payment Protection is available through Mansfield Begbie Associates and the majority of mortgage lenders and we strongly recommend you contact either ourselves or your own lender to discuss this further. Borrowers with pre October 95 mortgages should be aware that the state is also cutting back on benefits help.

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Mike Rees of Mansfield Associates

We would also point out to those of you with personal pensions that the 'waiver of premium' option can be added subject to satisfactory medical evidence, which means that if a policyholder becomes disabled or ill, the insurer continues to pay the premiums until retirement or return to work, usually with a six month deferment period. This ensures that pension benefits can be maintained. It is now more important than ever to plan for the future. Please make sure you discuss these benefits before it is too late by calling Mike Rees on 873369.

MANUFACTURERS OF CUSTOM-MADE HIGH QUALITY LOUNGE SUITES also

RE-UPHOLSTERY SERVICE Thousands of Fabrics to choose from, plus a choice of fillings and finishes

FARINGDON UPHOLSTERY 31 PARK ROAD, FARINGDON Showroom Open 7 days a week Mon - Sat lOam - 5pm • Sun 1pm - 5pm

Tel: 01367 - 241855

The Link Magazine â€˘ October 1996

First 500 homes in the north WE HAVE IT ALL

UNDERCOVER... DUNCAN CAR SPARES COMPREHENSIVE STOCKS OF GUARANTEED NEW & USED SPARES

MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED CARS & COMMERCIALS BOUGHT FOR CASH PARTS REMOVED BY OUR OWN PERSONNEL

TEL: 01 793 - 820000 UNIT 59 THORNHILL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON

Two years after Swindon's northern expansion was launched, five hundred houses have been occupied or reserved in the Abbey Meads village, the first of four to be built over the next ten to fifteen years. The first showhome opened on 13 August 1994 and the Scotfords, the first family, moved into their new Bovis Home on 21 October. Ten developers are presently building houses in the area which will eventually number 10,000.

Pictured right: Sales consultants from different building companies advertise their achievement

3-C 3-C DECOTEX

Heavy duties for hunky firemen

Property Maintenance Painter & Decorator â€˘ Specialist Artexing

Telephone: (01793) 791388 GARY 'WILKINSON Car Body Repairs and Paint Spraying M.o.T. Repairs and Welding Free Estimates Unit 12 Brindley Close Cheney Manor Industrial Estate Swindon

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We've been fairly busy at your local fire station recently, not perhaps with the total number of calls, but with the type of incidents we've been attending, writes Sub Officer Perry Payne fromWestlea Fire Station Since I last wrote we have responded to 50 different incidents, the majority of which have been fires, with only 14 false alarms and four emergency special service calls. Spare a thought for some of the fire fighters who, within a week attended a fatal accident involving a lorry on the A419 at Latton and then a fatal house fire in West Swindon, the details of which are still the subject of police investigation. Suffice to say that neither incident was easy to deal with and serve as an example of the more difficult aspects of our job, which unfortunately occur on a regular basis. On a light hearted note, congratulations to fire-fighter Shaun Dunham on his success in the recent competition held in the Evening Advertiser to find 'Swindon's hunkiest fireman'. It was a good natured response to a request by the newspaper following the 'Swindon fire-fighter' that never was, who won the Mr Swindon award at Kaos nightclub. Before we knew it, there were pictures on one day, telephone votes over the

Shaun, the hunky hugger of Westlea weekend and pretty shortly Shaun was the proud recipient of a very shiny trophy and loads of stick from the rest of us. Perhaps if they 2 had looked a bit harder Shaun also starred with his Westlea colleague Neil Green as part of our brigade canoe team who recently did very well in the extremely arduous Bristol to Windsor canoe race. The team finished a very creditable fourth place with a time of just over 22 hours.

Electrics: be safe, not sorry

I've been asked whther home electrical appliances should be left plugged in. Some, like videos, are designed to be left on all the time. But if you are not sure about the appliances you use, check with the manufacturer or the shop where you bought them. However, most electrical alliances should be switched off and unplugged when not in use. Never remove a plug by pulling the flex, always use the plug itself. Try to ensure you use one socket for each plug. It's possible to overheat a socket and start a fire by putting several adaptors into it. Always

ensure plugs and adaptors have the right fuse for the appliance. If in doubt, check with an approved electrician. To sum up - if electrical appliances are properly wired, used, fused and maintained, they are unlikely to cause any problems. It seems timely to mention electric blankets. As autumn draws in you may be thinking of using the electric blanket stored through the summer. Please ensure it is checked carefully for any signs of wear and tear, ideally by an electrician, before you use it.

he Link Magazine • October 1996

Free seeds to get wildflower gardens going A Link magazine reader is offering to provide gardeners and lovers of wildlife free seeds to start their own wildflower patches. John Ball from Grange Park, who has been featured in The Link several times this year, is passionate about encouraging people to develop butterfly friendly areas and has been harvesting seeds from his own wildflower garden to give away. The seeds need to be planted over the next few weeks, otherwise they will deteriorate. John has built up a vast amount of knowledge about wildflowers and how to encourage more butterflies to develop. As a result of stories in The Link, five West Swindon primary schools have started butterfly gardens with John's advice and practical help. In July, he took over a 50

square metre patch in Moredon Community Gardens, courtesy of Thamesdown Council, to create a butterfly haven. After digging in three tons of builders sand, a healthy crop of wildflowers have come on. "It's quite easy to start a butterfly garden," says John. "All you need to do is dig in builders sand to lighten up the soil. The seeds will flourish and so will the butterflies. Any area can be used, whether it's in the back garden or in a communal open space or shrub border." In addition to free seeds, John will advise how to best prepare the ground for planting. Give him a call on 877261.

Well done to Maureen Quesnel, Sue Stenning, Denise Stevens and Julie McCartney of Saddleback Road, Ramleaze, Shaw, who won first prize in the Best Residential Street category in the 'Swindon in Bloom' competition. Although the prizes were awarded in August, after The Link went to press, we had to publish the picture of Sue, left, and Maureen because they only entered the competition after reading the 'Are you blooming' story in the July Link.

Discover the Magic of Autumn at Stone Lane Garden Centre Full range of Unwins spring flowering bulbs in stock

ocan Sftec4il opa * Bone Meal 3kg Rec. price 44,917 Our price £2.99 * Murphy 80 litre compost Only £3.99 * Bulldog lawn rake Rec. price 418.10 Our price £10.99 See our winter flowering hanging baskets plus planted up terracota tubs and bowls, or bring your own baskets to be planted up

At Stone Lane, we have it all: * The largest range of quality plants - bedding plants, shrubs, roses, conifers and trees * Large pet & aquatic department

* Everything you need to make your garden a success - tools, fencing, compost, chemicals, bulbs, seeds

* Open 7 days a week * Plenty of free parking

* Coffee Shop

Stone Lane, Lydiard Millicent, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 771766 Purton

in the positive iaewsforee in West and North ,Swi,ulrni the most informative, most helpful, most relevant, most dynamic, most closely read, and most useful paper in Swindon

CIA)SER TOTHEC0,11,11VNITY

Purton Road

Stone Lane Garden Centre Lydiard Millicent

Peatmoor, Nine Elms & Shaw

From Haydon Wtk & Abbey Meads I Sparcells

Middleleaze & Shaw Westlea, Freshbrook, Grange Park, Toottdt

thiAt 4 I

The Link Magazine • October 1996 Arts & Craft Weekend 19 & 20 October, 10am 5pm Lydiard Millicent Parish Hall

YOUR FAST CAREER LANE TO YOUR FUTURE

Full or part time courses in: * Word Processing * Graphics * Spreadsheet * Computer Crash Courses Beginner /Advanced * Book-keeping Manual /Computerised *Shorthand * Typing *Audio *Windows

Come and meet the Lions

Established in 1917, the international association of Lions Clubs has become the largest service clubs organisation in the world, with almost 1.5 million members and 42,000 clubs, writes Lion Helen Marson.

"We guarantee course completion" FREE WORKBOOKS Phone now for your free information pack:

01793 610731 BS Secretarial & Computer Training Centre 26 Milton Road, Swindon SN 1 5JA RSA Approved * Part of the Pitman Training Ltd Group

R. s,,

BRITISH GAS TRAINED ENGINEER

~o GAS14

SER VICES

SERVICING & REPAIRS • • • •

FIRES BOILERS COOKERS WATER HEATERS

RAY SETTERS TEL: 01793 613761 MOBILE: 0402 523199

GOGGLEBOX SPECIALISTS IN VIDEO AND TV REPAIRS Free home estimates All work guaranteed NO CALL OUT CHARGE Tel: Swindon 731019

West Swindon Lions Club are having an informal open evening to invite community minded people to see the sort of activities we become involved with. Find out who your local members are, how Lions operate, what kind of community projects are undertaken and the fund-raising And, although we work hard we also have an enjoyable social life

Lines in the right place Until quite recently we at The Link magazine were under the impression that the parliamentary boundary line between Swindon 's two constituencies ran down the Swindon to Bristol railway line, putting West Swindon into the new Swindon North constituency, along with Haydon Wick and Abbey Meads. Butno. Theboundary runs along the Swindon to Gloucester railway line, putting West Swindon into Swindon South constituency which includes the town centre and Old Town. Present Member of Parliament Simon Coombs will be defending this seat. How many other people had the wrong idea?

Meet Julia Drown Labour Party parliamentary candidate for Swindon South Julia Drown will be available to meet voters at the Chinese Experience Restaurant, Mead Way Tuesday 15 October 7.30pm to 9pm. All welcome

with our members and partners and enjoy the camaraderie of Lionism to the full. So, join us at The De Vere Hotel, Shaw Ridge on Tuesday 22 October, 8pm. If you are unable to attend, but would like more details or an informal chat, contact Brian Haynes on 771822 or Steve Austin on 527364/529728. • West Swindon Lions Club has a stock of Meningitis Trust cards. These credit card sized information cards which identify the symptoms of meningitis for both children and adults, were produced in association with the National Meningitis Trust, and are being selectively distributed in West Swindon. For more information, telephone one of the numbers above.

Special people wanted Stoneham Housing Association is launching a new project aimed at helping young people in trouble. They are looking for local people who can offer a room in their home to young persons aged 16 to 21, with an agreed level of support. A payment for care and support will be made, the young person will meet the cost of rent, food and day to day living expenses. The scheme aims to improve the quality of life for young people and offer a alternative to custody. It will be a chance to do something positive in a supported situation. To find out more, call Anne Merryweather on 524277.

TARGET YOUR CUSTOMERS WITH THE POSITIVE NEWSFORCE 011111111111111 IN WEST AND NORTH SWINDON To advertise to over 16,500 homes in West Swindon, Haydon Wick, Woodhall Park and Abbey Meads call (0 1793) 872282 The Link Magazine: Closer to the community -

The Link Magazine • October 1996

Ugandan student visits St Mary's Wilson Kisekka, a 25-year-old student from Uganda, spent three weeks with members of St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park during September. His visit was part of an exchange programme for eight Ugandan young people who came to the Bristol diocese. Holy Trinity Church at Shaw hosted teacher Lillian Nakawesi, who, like Wilson, comes from the Mukono area of Uganda. It was Wilson's first visit to England and he had a busy programme visiting various church groups, services and young people's organisations, both to find out more about church work in this country and to talk about life in Uganda. Based at Mukono Cathedral, Wilson is responsible for coordinating youth work in no fewer than 56 parishes, involving over 3,000 young people. He organises programmes including evangelistic projects, sports activities and seminars on AIDS which blights the lives of so many in Uganda.

only is he the first member of his family to go to university, but the first in his home village of Kiwanga, where most of the 900 inhabitants are peasant farmers. The job he hopes to do will include managing afforestation projects and the preservation of some of Uganda's amazing wildlife such as elephants, lions and rare birds - an important but potentially dangerous job because of poachers. And the verdict on his visit to Swindon? Very interesting and enjoyable ... despite the cold. There was one disappointment however - he didn't get his first glimpse of snow!

What is the point of life?

Talbot Ph0t0

Wilson with Greendown School counsellor Linda Hibbert and, from left, Karen Brooks, Chris John, Kate Rudkins, Lorna Thompson, Gemma Adams

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Visiting churches in the Bristol diocese, Wilson was particularly impressed by special services held Calling bridge players for young people, including the Purton Bridge Club starts the winnew 9am service at St Mary's which ter season on Tuesday 1 October at is geared to families with young the Purton Bowls Pavilion (behind children. He hopes to organise the red house) at 730pm. The small informal club is alsimilar services back in Uganda. Having just completed a degree ways pleased to see old and new in forestry, Wilson now plans to faces. For more information, call continue with his Masters. Not Julie Pharro on 877006

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Well Woman Centre invites men in Swindon's Well Woman Centre in the Health Hydro, Milton Road is holding an open day on Saturday 5 October, 10am to 4pm to be officially opened by the Worshipful the Mayor Maureen Caton at 10.30am. The programme includes talks on 'Women in the Workplace', 1130am, and 'Women - are we too selfless?', 130pm. From 1pm to 3pm nurses will be available to give advice on health issues and to do checks such as blood pressure and weight, and at 230pm a talk and video will be presented on the menopause.

There will be information on the company health screening programme and nurses will be available to discuss the talks that can be given to groups, school, companies and organisation on topics such as healthy eating, pre-menstrual tension, and the menopause. Everyone is welcome, including, for the first time, men. Claire

Drinkwater, Centre Administrator, says, "some of our phone calls are from men concerned about their partners or wives. We are encouraged by this and would like more men to come to our open day to find out what we offer." Refreshments and a creche will be available all day. For more information telephone 511064.

01793 772123 Open Tues. to Sat. Evening also available 5 The Parade, Purton. Free car park.

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Guide to services for the elderly Do you know your rights? Do you know how to get advice on benefits and pensions? Do you know where you can get help with shopping? The answers to these and many ship with an older person by visitother questions are given in a new ing them at home. A-Y guide recently produced by "We've been delighted at how Age Concern Thamesdown (there successful the A-Y has been," said is no entry for Z!) The six-page Jo Osorio, director of Age Concern guide gives information about the Thamesdown. "People have been wide range of help and services amazed at the dozens of different that Age Concern Thamesdown ways Age Concern can help. With provides. From lending wheel- nearly 40,000 older people in our chairs to providing details of nearly district now it's obviously impor200 older people's organisations tant to spread our message as in Thamesdown, Age Concern can widely as possible." help with many enquiries and The A-Y guide is available free Classic Gold DJ Sandy Martin into problems. It also explains how of charge from Age Concern aerobics at Haydon Leigh School'sfirst people can help as volunteers, for Thamesdown, 14 Milton Road, birthday fete on 21 September with instance by developing a friend- Swindon SNI 5JE. Tel: 692166

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Win your way to a great new body! We have three copies of Rosemary Conley's new video to give away Rosemary Conley's Diet & Fitness Clubs are renowned for helping people reshape their bodies and their lives. Weekly weigh-ins and workouts at community based Classes have helped millions to lose weight, gain confidence and improve self-esteem. Now Rosemary Conley has produced a new video so that you can exercise in your own front room. The 75 minute video has six, ten minute sections using low impact aerobic movements, suitable for all levels of fitness, to exercise different parts of the body. You can, therefore, choose to concentrate on specific problem areas. Work out to this video regularly and follow a healthy low fat eating plan and you'll be amazed at how quickly you see a difference in your body shape. Three copies of Rosemary's new video have been made available by Wendy Cole who is an instructor for Rosemary Conley Diet and Fitness Clubs in West Swindon, Wootton Bassett, Wroughton and Purton. She runs classes in West Swindon at Greendown Community School every Thursday at 6pm and 730pm. For more details, call Wendy on (0 1793) 877750.

Answer the three questions below and you could be on the way to fitness in your own home. 1. How many sections has the new Rosemary Conley video?

Chiropodist Reflexologist Surgery or Home Visits For an appointment please telephone (0 1793) 849914 anytime

2. Where does Wendy Cole hold her Rosemary Conley classes in West Swindon? 3. What two things does Rosemary consider to be most important to lose weight and get fit? Send your answers on a postcard to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ by 21 October. Note: Wendy Cole may contact you following your entry

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The Link Magazine • October 1996

Short but important Link Hard of Hearing Club

The club next meets on the first Friday on the month in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, 2pm - 4pm. On 4 October a police officer will talk about home and personal security. There is a charge of 50p to cover costs and refreshments. The club is open to anyone with hearing loss and their friends and partners are also welcome. For more information contact Norman Wood on 537671.

School breaks out of the classroom Children from Brook Field School, Shaw escaped from class the last two weeks of September to make use of local learning resources. Every child had at least one oppor- tional curriculum project. tunity to visit Lydiard Park and Their work will be put on disLydiard House to pursue a na- play for parents to view at school in early October. A troupe of year 5 children will also enact a play written by Greendown School's primary liaison teacher Tim Noble on the lawn outside the house in October. Left: Drawing Lydiard's fine frontage, year 3 and 4 children in Tia Sarmezey's class, from left, Arjun Toor, Zoe Wimble, Jamie Griffiths

Animal free hunt in Lydiard Park Find out about hunting in the past on 5 October, 11am to 2pm. Join in with an animal-free family hunting game and do a falcon quiz in Lydiard House. Hunting history expert Andrew McNally will be working a falcon and his Hungarian Vizsla dog in the walled garden. Call 771419 for times of events. Tickets, available from the house, should be booked in advance. Cost: £1.50 for adults and £1 for children.

Family Project annual meeting

The West Swindon Family Project holds its annual general meeting at Toothill Community Centre on Wednesday 9 October, 1230pm. There will be a report on the work of the project and elections to the management committee, fol- Problem verrucas? lowed by a buffet lunch. Chiropodist Martin Drew writes Membership is free to anybody Verrucas, or warts, are notoriously who lives or works in West Swin- difficult to cure, and no treatment don. For information, and to find is totally effective. Our surgery out how to join the management offers cryosurgery, chemical and group, call 871303. medical electric treatment to the most modern standard available. Register your blood Our clinic for under us is now Members of Toc H will be registeropen on Tuesday, 6pm - 8pm. We ing blood donors at the Link Centre on behalf of the Transfusion treat older children in regular surgery. The initial consultation and Service on Saturday 12 October. assessment for children is free and Swimmers needed treatments cost £5 per session. We The National Asthma Campaign also treat warts on hands. is holding a sponsored swim on 19 Verruca are very contagious, so October at Link Centre, 11 am - 5pm. protect your family by registering Sponsored swimmers are need- for treatment now. Resolution is ed to raise money for asthma re- not easy with viral infections, so search. Contact Norman Wood on call Martin Drew on 01793 511284 537671 for a form. for further information. Colitis and Crohn's disease

The North Wilts Group of Colitis and Crohn's disease is holding a meeting at PMH Post Graduate Centre on 15 October, 7.30pm. The topic for the meeting will be diet and nutrition relating to U.C. and C.D. sufferers. The senior dietician from PMH will give a talk and Ann Edwards will speak about aloe vera as an alternative. Anyone interested welcome to attend. Call 612640 for information. Support for parents of children with eczema

Do you have a child that has eczema? Does your child constantly scratch and cry from the the discomfort? The parents in the Swindon Eczema Support Group know exactly what it's like and are available to help others cope with the difficulties of caring for a restless, upset child. The group meets on the first Monday of the month at Carfax Street Health Centre from lOam 12 noon. Children are welcome. For more information, contact Maggie on 613517 or just turn up.

Aromatherapy for ME sufferers The new self-help group for sufferers of ME, chronic or post-viral fatigue and their carers, meets again on 1 October at Meadowcroft Community Centre, Upper Stratton, 730pm, when a qualified aromatherapist will talk about aromatherapy massage. In a 1990 survey by Action for ME, 64% of respondents said they found massage to be beneficial in the treatment of ME. The September launch meeting of the Swindon ME Support Group was well attended and got the group off to a positive start. New members are welcome. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month and provide an opportunity to share and learn from each other in a friendly and positive atmosphere. Sufferers and carers who would like to find out more about the Swindon ME Support Group should contact Health Matters. Telephone: 618558.

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The Link Magazine • October 1996

Letters to The Link

Letters should be sent by 15th of the month to the address on page 2

Young people visiting Purton

Middleleaze Drive

From Mrs S Bevington, clerk to Purton Parish Council

From Mrs HD Wiggington, Camton Road, Middleleaze

Purton Parish Council would like village hail car park, village centre to draw to the attention of parents (Red House) and Play Close are and guardians some problems be- the main gathering points. It is known that some of the ing experienced in Purton by youths that gather in the evenings youths that gather come from West Swindon, presumably because and sometimes during the day. It is understandable that young they attend Bradon Forest School people wish to meet their friends and wish to meet their friends from out of school, and such meetings Purton. The Parish Council is conare fine except for the unreason- cerned that parents may think that able behaviour of some. Purton their children are going to friends' homes, some no doubt do, but others don't, they hang around the streets and are not always well behaved. In fact the moral behaviour of three girls from West Swindon who seemed to spend most of their summer holidays in the public toilet in Purton village hall car park, leaves a lot to be desired. The Parish Council fears that sooner or later things will get out of hand and one these youngsters WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS will get seriously hurt. If your child is a regular visitor to Purton • Same Day Service please ensure you know where he / • Guaranteed Repairs she is going, who their friends are, For a friendly, helpful service, call J. Martin. and what they are doing. It is Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill simply irresponsible to drop them off in the middle of the village and leave them to their own devices.

As residents of Camton Road off Middleleaze Drive, we agree totally with the remarks made by Mrs C Hill of Pearl Road (September Link). For the car owners of Camton Road, Kilben Close and Maldwyn Close, it is necessary to nose out into Middleleaze Drive a good three quarters car length to see if it is clear to drive out. This is due to bad road design and overhanging trees and shrubs. I am amazed there have not been more accidents, especially as Middleleaze Drive is used in the main by drivers using it as Brands Hatch. Please, please can anything be done to prevent a serious accident? How about a petition?

For Sale For Sale Girls Raleigh Bluebird bike suit ages 3 to Hotpoint, frost free larderfridge, almond, 6, excellent condition with top box and exc. condition, £100 ovno, includes drinks stabilizer. £35. Tel: 874727 (Ramleaze) chiller. Tel: 871361 after 4pm, (Gr Pk) Ladies Raleigh Cameo, 26" wheels, car- Dark oak corner unit 71.5" h, 22' w, 20"d, £45 ono. Tel for more details after rier, 3 speed. £25 ono. Tel: 878782 Britax child's booster seat, £3. Large 3.30, 433629 (Moredon) selection of children's books, exc condi- Black ash effectcoffee table, stereo cabition, offers. Tel: 878695 (Ramleaze) net and nest of tables, £12 each orc30 the Maclaren Super Dreamer buggy, with lot. Tel: 876708 raincover, £30, without cover, £20. See- 3 seater plus 2 seater couches, pink with saw, £25. Scooter £10. Tel: 871870 blue fleck, mahogany ends, clean and in Mamas & Papas double buggy with hood good condition, washable, £125 ono. Tel: 728092 (Woodhall Park) apron vgc, £35. Tel: 692149 (Fr'k) Boots blue denim cot bumper, £8. Ac- 0 plan 3 piece suite, brown pattern, tivity rug, £5. Mr Wobble £8. Pull along good condition, £250. Tel: 872390 elephant £10. Shape basher, £4. Pop-up Light fittings two 3 centre fittings, three farm £4. Tel: 879611 (Grange Park) wall fittings in brass, with matt glass Bebecart Duplo pushchair/pram, ideal shades, good condition, £50. tel: 874986 for baby twins, as new, raincover & mat- Alex Higgins figurine sculptured in 1/10 scale, 8" high, in polished maple, on stand, tress, £95. Tel: 872352 (Freshbrook) Mothercare steam steriliser, £12. unwanted gift, still boxed, £48. Tel: 812750 Babyfood hand blender, £4. 7 baby bot- Double nylon bed spread and 2 shams tles, £2. 'Edwardian toys' curtain 46 x 52, pea green, £5. Double nylon bed spread £12, lampshade, £5. pillowcase, £1. Tel: and 2 shams emerald, £5. Tel: 873089 879611 (Grange Park) Two pairs curtains, pale green, 64" w x Britax Rock-a-bye car seat including head 60" d, & 88"w x 60"d, £25 or will split. Tel: hugger, pastel colours, exc cond, only 772062 (Common Platt) used for one baby, £25. Tel: 721403 Singer hand sewing machine, little used, Britax car booster seat, £8. Go kart £3. good condition, £35. Tel: 874131 (Fr'k) Boy's baby, toddler clothes, up to age 6 Various modern vinyl LPs all in good years, £5, large bag. Football boots, £2. condition, £50 ono. Ladies bicycle, 5 Tel: 875489 (Grange Park) speed, blue white, good condition, £50. Football boots, Puma King size 5.5, £10, Tel: 882517 (Westlea) Hi Teo size 6, £10, both exc cond. Tel: Double glazed patio doors with hard wood 872282 frame, offers invited. Tel: 728440 Wedding dress, ivory size 14, Alfred Snap/clip frames. 5'x7", lO for E7. 6"x Angelo 1995 design, long sleeves, long 4" 10 for £5. 6' x 8' 10 for £9.50. 8" x 10" train, must be seen, £300 ono. Tel: 705393 5 for £9.50. Unused, still cellophane Gas hob, electric oven and fan, white, 3 wrapped. Tel: 812750 years old, exc condition, £100 ono, hardly New fawn carpet, still wrapped, 8' x 12', used. Tel: 481301/886537 (Westlea) £45 ono, must go. Tel: 872065 (Westlea)

For Sale Six porcelain dolls, 15" high, 3 porcelain dolls 12" high, on stands, vgc, £7 & £5 each respectively. Tel: 875681 (Fr'k) Sege Game Gear with 5 games, and power adaptor, £45. Tel: 872282 (Fr'k) Saisho VCR, long play programme timer, remote control, £50. Tel: 700402 Pioneer CD player, good condition, £50. Tel: 617839 PCW951 2 word processor including sheet feeder plus many extras, exc condition, £125. Tel: 871169 (Westlea) 36 piece socket set, English & metric, two extension bars, wheel brace, hand ratchet T bar, universal joint, etc, as new, £35. Tel: 726833 (Haydon Wick) A reg Hyundi Pony, low mileage, long MOT, £600 one. Two Sets of bar bell weights, plus one set dumbells, the lot for £30. Tel: 615397 (Toothill)

HOTPOINT

Cat Neutering

HOOVER

The Wootton Bassett & District group of the Cats Protection League would like cat owners to have their cats neutered. Vouchers are available to help cover the cost. Owners who need advice or help on neutering should contact Stephanie Giles on 611170

Take a walk in the woods The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust are holding a hands-on conservation day for would-be volunteers at Clouts Wood, Wroughton. Experts will be on hand on Sunday 13 October from 2pm to 430pm to talk about all aspects of practical conservation work and there is no obligation for further involvement. Autumn is one of the busiest times of the year for the Trust who play a vital role in keeping local woodlands in the best condition for wildlife. To find out more, call Jo Taylor on 526228.

Councillors available Councillors representing Toothill Ward (includes Toothill, Westlea, Shaw and Roughrnoor) hold regular surgeries throughout the year. Surgeries coming up: 8 October, 7pm - 8.30pm Westlea Community Centre 12 November, 7pm -830pm Chinese Experience Tor contact them at other times: David Cox, tel: 615005; Maurice Fanning, tel: 422043; Terence Winter, tel: via 422043 Freshbrook councillor Phil Rashid is available on the last Friday of the month, 7pm to 8pm in Freshbrook School main hall. He can also be contacted at 872803.

Wanted Cheap accessories for Apricot PCX1 computer. Manual, printer, all offers considered. Tel: 875401 (ansafone) Tae Kwon Do Suits size 5, also sparring equipment/pads. Tel: 874986 To let Two bed house in town centre, fully furnished, £400 pcm. Tel: 693685 House exchange Housing Association 2 bed semi with large garden for 3 bed house in West Swindon, no flats. Tel: 876146 Council 2 bed maisonette, gas c/h, in Swindon for 2 or 3 bed house, consider most areas. Tel: 721819 Lost Large black & white cat, last seen Shawl Prinnels area, reward. Tel: 876873

r Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 16th of the month. Entries are subject to available space and are published on a first come first served basis.

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication) L

The Link Magazine • October 1996

Local Lives Pursuing a dream Henry Smith from Peatmoor is a leading light in the campaign to revitalise the North Wilts Canal which is part of the Wilts & Berks Canal. He and other volunteers put in many hundreds of hours each year to restore years of neglect to bring history back to life. Here he describes the challenges before them. The Wilts & Berks Canal was cut from the Kennet and Avon Canal at Semington, near Trowbridge to the River Thames at Abingdon, between the years 1796 and 1810. The North Wilts Canal was cut from Swindon to the Thames and Severn Canal just north of Latton. In 1901 the Stanley A gradient, near Caine collapsed and neither the will nor the finance was available to repair it. Through traffic, which consisted mainly of coal, from the Somerset coal fields was stopped and in 1914 the canal was abandoned by act of Parliament.

Freshbrook Evangelical Church

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH Live with integrity

Worsley Road

Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things

Will give YOU a warm welcome

SUNDAYS AT THE LINK CENTRE

Sunday I Qam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 630pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050

(Community Suite)

I0.30am & T.00pm

Railway, now the Old Town foot- All ages of children & teens cared for path. This section has always been Information: Call Brian in water and will be dredged by at the Church Office: 849731 Thamesdown in the near future. in association with Beyond the bridge and a short NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL infilled section are two other sections of canal restored by the group which now benefit from a stone tow path, laid by the group in the last couple of months. At Moredon evidence of the ca- j nal can be seen by parking by the All Saints'Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight gate across the old road over the 772417 (for the Village and Roughmoor,J Swindon to Gloucester railway ./ line, just before where the new St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze -9:00 & 10:30am Revd Rob Buries F3' road now crosses the River Ray. 870244 (for Freshbrook, Grange Park & Hook) Holy Trinity Shaw - 10:30am Revd Andrew Hetherington 770568 \ ,

illibb.-LOCAL CHURCHES

(the Church is at Shaw Village Centre)

Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd George Gibson 692620 (meeting in the Community Centre during rebuilding) I

Westlea Church - 10:00am Revd Peter Walker 872932 (this Church meets in Westlea School Hall, Langstone Way)

The Parish of West Swindon and the Lydiards Baptist • Church of England • Methodist • United Reformed Church

10% Walking up into the area of trees on the north side, to the bed of the North Wilts Canal. The group have cleared the tow path down to the aqueduct over the River Ray and Wilts County Council have installed a new timber ootbridge over the river. The aqueduct, a grade II listed structure, has provided a major challenge and is the site of almost weekly (Sunday) working parties. So far some 10,000 bricks have been laid and there is probably the same amount to go. The aqueduct consists of a three arch bridge carrying the canal over the river and includes stone bands and a stone capped parapet, yet to be rebuilt, to the tow path side. The group is always looking for new members and those willing to come on work parties are particularly welcome. We also have many retired people who enjoy the excellent quarterly magazine, Dragonfly. Anybody interested should contact me on 875775.

in October

Ca 'rpet Cj1flii b1 y I 1oci

Henry Smith at work, restoring the aquaduct near Moredon

We now have the longest length of unrestored canal in this country centred on Swindon. When completed, it will again connect with the Kennet & Avon which is in use, and the Thames & Severn which is under restoration, to create a number of cruising rings. The Wilts & Berks Canal Amenity Group was set up in 1977 and is a registered charity. The aims of the group now are to restore the canals to full navigation and provide a tow path for all to enjoy. The group consists of ten branches, some more active than others, with the Swindon branch being one of the most active. Although there have been occasional attempts at local restoration from time to time, work in Swindon started just over two and a half years ago and has run continuously since. Most people are probably familiar with the Kingshill section of canal which runs from just beyond the back of the Esso petrol station to the skew bridge of the former Midland and South West Junction

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Phone now for free no obligation quotation on

01793 - 870756 ULTRA CLEAN (WILTSHIRE) pen: Mon - Fri 900am - 700pm • Sat 900am - 100pm. DISCOUNT OFFER VALID UNTIL 31 .10.96

QUALITY NEW HOMES IN WILTSHIRE

ABBEYMEADS, SWINDON

LONGMEADOW, SWINDON

2 and 3 bedroom homes from £56,750 with 5% Deposit Paid* Plan.

Last Remaining 4 and 5 bedroom properties from £112,000 with Full Value Home Exchange*.

Tel (01793) 700788

Tel (01793) 871879

ST MICHAELS COURT, LYNEHAM 2 bedroom homes from £50,500 (with 5% Deposit Paid* Plan), 3 bedroom homes from £59,995 and 4 bedroom detached homes from £96,250. Tel (01249) 890324

ABBEYMEADS, SWINDON 4 bedroom detached homes from £99.950 with Full Value Home Exchange*. Tel (01793) 700788

Sales Centres open daily 11am - 6pm On selected plots. subject to status, terms and conditions. Prices correct at time of going to press.