October 1997 Swindon Link by swindonlink6

No. 185 • October 1997 • Circulation 16,500

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'Hard work, clean living and faith in God' is the route to a long life says centenarian

T.S.P. HOUSE CHENEY MANOR TRADING EST. SWINDON

After Diana Emotions poured forth across the nation following the tragic and untimely death of Diana, Princess of Wales on 31 August. On page 3 the Mayor of Swindon, Coun. Maurice Fanning pays a tribute to the Princess of Hearts. The Mayor also asks the people of the town to look at how they could follow her example by giving of themselves to good causes and to voluntary work in the community.

Sprightly Haydon Wick parishioner Hilda Lanyon turned 100 years on 12 September. She is pictured here with her nephews and nieces at a celebration in her honour. Story on page 6.

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The Link Magazine • October 1997

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We have all you needforflower arranging items in Swindon - silk flowers, plants, baskets, vases, pots, porcelain dolls, gifts for all occasions, and a large range for Christmas. We used to be at Dorcan Market, same unbeatable prices. Same superb quality.

Please come and see us Monday to Saturday 930am - 500pm Opposite the Devizes Road car park

We have been informed of changes to telephone numbers that appeared in the September edition of The Link which included the annual directory of useful information: West & North. These are: Page 3 & 4-Political Representation: Tel: 615444 Julia Drown, MP for Swindon South. Tel: 422663 Caroline Jackson, Euro MP.

Join the Lions to say 'We Serve' In the last year West Swindon Lions Club have ... toured the area with Father Christmas and his reindeers ... organised a sponsored swim helped at the Disabled Games ... organised a tea party and mystery tour for elderly residents ... held jumble sales.... and lots more. Lions Clubs members are men they are planning on Tuesday 28 and women interested in helping October. For more information and an the local community under the motto We Serve. There is a chance invitation, call Lion Alan Newton to find out more about the projects on 615378.

www.swindonlink.com(ing soon) Parts of The Link will be appearing on a new Internet site in October, available to anybody with a computer wherever they are worldwide. The site is a joint project between information and details of volunThe Link and Jupiter Systems and tary organisations in Swindon. Unlike paper printing, electronic were planning a rather unusual launch. We hope it will be re- communication means a lot more ported live on BBC Wiltshire Sound information can be stored and and be on the internet within min- accessed. We hope the site will reflect community life across Swinutes. The site will contain magazine don and in due course we will be news and articles from contribu- gathering news and views from tors such as both Swindon MPs. It other parts of the town. The URL will also include lots of what's on will be published next month.

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lint M fig i Published by West Swindon Publications

Editorial: Roger Ogle Publisher/Editor

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

Copy date for November edition: 17 October Published: 25 October Copy for December: 14 November

Contents After Diana 3 4 Freshbrook & Grange Park 5 Westlea Haydon Wick 6 7 Abbey Meads Shaw 8 10 Toothill 12-13 Recreation 14 The Library 15 Letter from Westminster 23-25 Swindon Wide 38 Free advertisements

The contents of The Link are protected by 13 Castle Dore I Apple Macintosh design, copyright. Copying of advertisements for Freshbrook,Swindon SN5 8PQ layout and lasersetting business use, including publication is Tel: (01793) 872282 forbidden unless advertisers or publishers Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol have sought permission. Articles and Fax: (01793) 878189 photographs require similar authority. e mail: linkmagazine@compuserve.com Published monthly. "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 com.etition to name the leisure centre in 1984. It comm-n -. ii a • a 1 -a 1.11

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The Link Magazine ' October 1997

Let the spirit of Diana live on

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By the Mayor of Swindon, Councillor Maurice Fanning To say that no-one will forget the tragic death of Diana, Princess of Wales, and the overwhelming degree of public grieving that followed, is stating the obvious. But for me, it has an additional significance. Just four months into my year as Mayor of Swindon, it will undoubtedly remain the saddest memory of my time in office. From the moment the news broke, Swindon Borough Council was inundated with calls asking, in essence, for ways to express sorrow publicly and collectively. Diana was clearly someone who transcended her titlL Princess of Wales, to become the 'people's princess'. And the way the people of Swindon reacted over the following weeks could not have demonstrated this better. Over 1,500 floral tributes were laid at the Cenotaph and the lawns of the Civic Offices. So many people wanted to sign the books of

condolence opened at the Civic Offices, that extra books had to be opened in libraries. And still people queued to sign them. A special service was held on the Civic Offices steps on the morning of the funeral and the annual Civic Service at Holy Rood Church the next day was turned into a service of remembrance for Diana. It has been one of those moments in history that will always be remembered, but I believe this genuine outpouring of feeling also had a wider significance, and one

that can help us build something very positive out of a great loss. Over the past couple of decades our country has been led down a path where we have been encouraged to believe individual interest and competition between ourselves is somehow a way of moving forward. That community spirit and co-operation should be sacrificed in the name of material acquisition and personal betterment. To quote Margaret Thatcher, 'there is no such thing as society'. Diana has given us all the opportunity to say, more loudly than anyone could ever have imagined, that that was wrong. Society, individual communities, and the compassion and support we can all give to each other in times of stress - and equally in times of joy - is valuable beyond all else. If that legacy endures, then the loss of Diana will not have been for nothing.

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A 'People's Walk in memory of Diana' - Sunday 5 October, 10am. i4tizy not come and see us? A 7 mile walk from Coate Water Revd Andrew Hetherington, team rector at Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Sue Cutciffe. Giles Green, to Barbury Castle to raise money tries to find answers to the question everybody must have asked Brinkworth, Nr Chippenham. for charities supported by the PrinTel: 01666 510685 I heard the news about the death of cess of Wales. Open Monday - Friday 9am - 1pm Diana, at 7.51 am on my way to an For more information, telephone early service on 31 August. Since on 466539. then we have had to get on with our lives, but for a week, everyone in Britain was plunged into shock and grief. The millions of flowers and tributes are evidence of that, as is the money given to charity. but right alongside us with his love (Have you sent yours yet?) and healing, listening to our tears That week was very important and bearing our pain, if we want for us, since we gave ourselves him to. ME ME on BE oil UK 'll •;IiI permission to be sad, cry and Another way of answering the In all . 1 llij 114 11 mourn. Brits' are not very good at question "Why?", is to remind us . 1p this, being ashamed of public ex- we all have a precious gift of freeU U UpI U U U U fl1flI• p U pressions of emotion and fright- dom to do good as Diana did, or to r I' I r !' I' ur 1" I" D In flU UN Ull •fl Un nfl UN ened of crying. Yet God has made do evil as the Press did. Let me D 0 0 uiu us so one of our bodily functions is make this point light-heartedly. If •u .•u ip: I: :•: I.: to shed tears when we are upset. every time a tragedy was to hapThe shortest verse in the Bible is pen, or we did something wrong, "Jesus wept" and he is a man! an angel stopped us, then the phoWe had lost in Diana, a vibrant, tographers would have a huge sensitive, beautiful and famous number of close-ups of angels, not theoc person who had become 'Queen of the Princess! God treats us as repeople's hearts 'through her work sponsible people, and Earl Spenwindowo m a conoewatøiq!!! with numerous charities. Because cer got it right when he held the we bottle things up, this has given Press to account. Parliament needs us the opportunity to do some of to legislate to stop their excesses. our own grieving for loved ones lam finding that people do want we miss through bereavement, to reflect on the point of life. There PAS fIt marriage breakdown etc. Who else is no more important question than tstrprOsot security far SPECIAL DiSCOUNTS AVAIL&BIE THIS MONTH ONLY did you find yourself thinking of that one. Your local church is ready windows LI j BS 7413 that week who you miss? to help, and many are running 8S 7412 Why was Diana killed so tragi- Alpha Courses which explain Now backed by acu04 ea& euude than ud Plus Pt,, (UK) Ltd REGAL WINDOWS has, bees manuladsrbtg and fnntathng wIndows, doss, sad cally? Why does God allow it to about Jesus and the Christian Faith. (part of the international wsra,ruetw,iss foe cue, 12 yawns, and now has, in ennnw of 15(520 nrtalatiwnst VGT Group). Regal happen? Often that question • An Alpha Course introductory During that this, Rsg,fb legendary fitting teams hose trossfo,rnud at of thae Homemaker Ltd (trading as eu,torsserb ,Lte'gla,ed bosses into spat, sense, bonne, Regal Windows) continue to "Why?" is about how much weare supper - Thursday 2 October, Find out for yourself why Regal are Swlndon's most offer the same first class hurt and upset. I've mentioned that 7.15pm, Oliver Tomkins Infants proiccis and quality workmanship that has highly recommended double-glazing Company! Telephone alwass been associated oath the Skçsat name now and benefit from this month's special Offers. Jesus, God's own Son, is pro- School. There is no obligation to foundly saddened too. This shows start the course. For details, call Wyndham Road, Hawksworth, Swindon. Tel (01793) 618138 us that our God is not unfeeling, Bob Linnegar on 874796.

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A public meeting has been called for Wednesday 12 November, 7.30pm, to give Freshbrook and Grange Park residents the chance to discuss local issues of concern - particulary youth needs in the area. Local councillors, the police, school governors and local traders are being invited to attend the meeting which will also include the annual general meeting of the Freshbrook Village Group residents' association. Youth aggravation: Young peo-

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ple hanging around Freshbrook Village Centre have again been causing disruption and upsetting both shoppers and traders. In one incident at the end of the school holidays, a trader had to pull down the security shutters whilst staff took a lunch break because a group of young people had taken up residence on the front doorstep. When the business reo-

pened, customers had to make their way through the group and be let in through a locked door. Some left by the rear exit. • Windows have been broken and doors smashed at Toothill Church on four occasions since the congregation moved back into their building in mid-June, after extensive renovation. Obscene racist graffiti has also been sprayed on the Chinese takeaway next door.

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Africa makes an impact A Grange Park teenager spent a fascinating summer holiday in West Africa visiting missionaries in Senegal and staying out of the way of anti-government rebel forces. Lydia Buries, right, who moved to Park South in mid-September, spent a month with family friends Steve and Moira Poulson and their three children. The trip was the first time Lydia had flown alone. It was 'a bit scary' she admits the airline representative was not at Brussels airport to put her on the connecting flight. However, resourceful Lydia found the right departure gate and arrived safely. "I was immediately hit by the heat and humidity in West Africa," said Lydia. "There was a drought and the people were worried that the rice crops might fail. But it rained in the third week I was there. "It was very different to Britain. The family live in a Muslim village so females have to cover their legs and arms when they go out. The house was one of only two with running water and electricity supplied by solar panels. Senegal is a very poor country with few resources, where the main export is peanuts. The malnutrition of the children vividly sticks in my mind. 'We did not go too far from the

village because there were not many places to visit, and it was quite dangerous in parts of the country because of rebel activity. Lydia celebrated her fifteenth birthday with a special Senegalese meal and a three hour party of dancing, singing and chanting by village women and children in her honour. She has returned to her GCSE courses at Commonweal School and hopes, one day, to return to the Senegal.

Back from down Mexico Way Another Grange Park teenager who made a long distance trip abroad during the summer break is Michelle Clark, left, who attended an international convention for Guides from the USA, Australia and Greece. She spent a week with a local family during the three week stay, made visits to famous Aztec ruins and helped with a community service project. "It was a wonderful experience," said Michelle, who will be showing slides of her trip to local Guide groups and her sponsors which include the West Swindon Lions.

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After four years as deputy to Neil Griffiths, she has taken on responsibility for managing the school. He is on a year's secondment to promote a parent child literacy project for the Basic Skills Agency based on his pioneering story sacks idea developed with the help of volunteer parents. "Ihad superb training from Neil, particularly over the last year when I took on many of his responsibilities," said Suzanne. "But I did not expect to keep quite so many balls in the air at the same time. The volume of queries, especially at the beginning of the year, is huge and the head has to stay in touch with everything: liaising with teachers, making sure the new children are happy, being available to talk to parents, dealing with 'phone calls from the local education authority, sorting out flooded toilets with the caretaker, trying to get site contractors to do the job, even

though they have declared a go slow with their management. "It's been very interesting and a great challenge,. The team at the school is tremendous and I don't think anybody outside will have noticed any problems." Mrs Seaton is not planning any radical changes, just a constant review of practice so that the school can respond to educational needs and government requirements. "A year of reflection and consolidation is our aim. Where we are good we will do better, and work on improvements where needed. I cannot speak more highly of the support and encouragement from staff and parents. "Neil was a great leader who stamped his character and charisma on Westlea School. He has left us in great spirits and good hands and we will be doing our utmost to improve on his standards."

Halloween, bonfires & fireworks coming up Friday 31 October Fancy Dress Halloween Discos at Toothill Community Centre Under lOs: 6pm - 7.30pm. 75p (parents must attend) 11 - 16 years: 8pm - 1030pm. £1 Prizes for best fancy dress. Refreshments. Tickets from the centre. Friday 7 November, 7pm. Gates from 6.30pm The post-Royal visit bonfire and fireworks at St Mary's Church, Lydiard Park. Follow in the Queen's footsteps to Lydiard. £2.50 adults, £1.50 children. Free parking from Grange Park, Hay Lane entrance. Refreshments. Proceeds to assist Wilson Nakawesi, who visited St Mary's twelve months ago, to attend theological college in Uganda. Wednesday 5 November, 6.30pm. Gates from 5.45pm Bonfire and fireworks at Westlea School, Langstone Way. Refreshments. Entrance: £2 adults, £1 children. Under 5s free. Proceeds to school funds.

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Even with excellent preparation, Westlea School's new actingheadteacher Suzanne Seaton did not quite expect to deal with such a wide range of demands in the first few days of term.

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Also present was the church's newest member, 12 day old Philip Evans with his parents Judith and Dave, who live at Peatmoor. Rev Raymond Adams conducted the thanksgiving service for his older parishioner, speaking of Hilda's indomitable spirit, determination to overcome all obstacles and her faith. He ran through a few historical landmarks saying that Queen Victoria was still on the throne when Hilda was born. She was five years old when the first aeroplane struggled into the air and aged 13 when Scott perished in Antarctica. At the tea party afterwards, Hilda received a birthday greeting on a mobile 'phone. Amongst the guests were members of her second husband's family, Betty and Albert Gibbins, who decided three weeks before the party to surprise Hilda by flying over from Australia. The sprightly centenarian, who recently moved to the Four Seasons Residential Home in Moredon, thanked those who came

Young and old together, Hilda Lanyon at her centenary birthday party with 12 day old Philip Evans with his parents Judith and Dave at St John's to the party for all their kindness. Although Hilda started work as a domestic servant at aged 14, and life had been particularly hard for many years, she gave three reasons for her long living. "Hard work, clean living and faith in God has seen me through 100 years."

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Haydonleigh School, which is barely two years old, has received a glowing report by inspectors from the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted). The school opened with 39 pu- picking up children as 'poor and pils in September 1995 in a mobile potentially unsafe.' at Greenmeadow School and then The report recommends that the moved to its permanent building school: in Haydon Court Drive. Numbers • improve progress of more able are now up to 275 children, with pupils by target setting one hundred having arrived in Sep- • improve pupil progress in learn tember alone. New children are ing by using lesson assessment being enrolled daily as families in planning move into the northern expansion, • develop a medium term plan and mobile classrooms are already for the growth in pupil in place to cope with further numbers growth from January. • reviewcar park safety. The inspection team found a Headteacher Jon Swaffield said 'good school with many strengths that he, the teachers and the school and few weaknesses.' The report governors were delighted with the states that there are good relation- report. "The quality of our staff is ships throughout the school where the secret to our success. We set pupils are well behaved and po- high standards and have high exlite. Curriculum standards are pectations of our pupils." above average in listening skills, speaking, numeracy, applying Get martial at the maths and using science and information technology, and averHaydon Centre age in reading and writing. Sci- Classes in Ki Aikido, the sophisticated ence at Key Stage 2 could be made and non-aggressive Japanese martial more challenging for the more able art takes place at the Haydon Centre pupil. on Monday 7pm to 10pm, Thursday Inspectors observed pupils run- 8pm to 10pm and Sunday 6pm to ning between parked cars to meet 8pm under the guidance of 1st Dan parents and the report criticised Black Belt Dave Powell. arrangements for dropping and For more information, call 721962.

ABBEY MEADS

GP set to open on Elstree Way After delays and bureacratic negotiations which have gone on for about two years, the people for Abbey Meads have a doctors surgery. Dr John & Partners open the doors of their new temporary surgery on Elstree Way, next to the community centre, on Monday 29 September. Surgery times are: Monday 430pm 6pm Tuesday 845am 1015am Wednesday 930am 11am Thursday 8.30am 10pm -

Appointments can be made during these times on 702068. At all other times, call the Carfax Street surgery on 692062. Plans have been submitted for a permanent health centre at Abbey Meads village centre. If agreed by Swindon Councils planning committee in October, the building could be ready in a year.

Mobile coffee bar on the way Swindon Council's Youth Service is planning to bring the Octobus to Abbey Meads for a four week trial starting on Wednesday 22 October, 7pm to 9.30pm. The exact location on St Andrews Ridge has yet to be agreed, but teenagers should look out for a silver double decker staffed by welcoming youth workers offering coffee, chat and youth club activities.

Builders league table planned Abbey Meads residents' association is organising a league table of builders' performance and want to hear opinions from home buyers. Chairman Ian Dobie, right, said the league table will rate builders on cooperation, provision of worker's car parks, willingness to fix problems, and any other points brought to his attention. Let Ian know your views on 706463.

Heading for first 1,000 October should see the occupation of the one thousandths house somewhere in Swindon's northern expansion, three years to the month after the first arrivals. The first showhome was opened west of Lady Lane. But Friends of in August 1994 and the Scotney the Earth Swindon are urging peofamily were the first to move into ple to comment on the scheme to the area, from nearby Haydon ensure the best wildlife sites are Wick, on 21 October of that year. protected and that the design and A total of 10,000 houses are timing are people friendly. "We are worried that it will be planned to be built over the next ten to twelve years in four 'urban' no more than a place to sleep and villages. The main development drive through for the first few has been at Abbey Meads, but 20 years," said FoE spokeswoman houses are now occupied at Taw Jean Saunders. "Without shops, Hill in the far west of the expan- schools, community halls in place sion area, off the Moredon Road. early, the area will have no heart Developers have just submitted whilst families are likely to be caran outline planning application to dependent which is bad news for build the next 6,000 houses, to the everyone, and the environment."

School should be at the heart of community Jean Saunders also expressed concern that the site for the northern expansion secondary school is out on a limb, in the far north west of the area. "The school should be central to the whole development so that young people can easily walk or cycle," said Mrs Saunders. Greendown Community School in West Swindon is the most recent secondary school to be built in the town. The site on the development master plan drawn in the 1970s also located it on the edge of the expansion area. Asked to comment, former chairman of governors Roger Ogle said, "West Swindon people did not raise the school siting until it was far too late. Nor did they protest

enough about the lack of a secondary school. It opened in 1985, nine years after the first people moved in. Being next to Lydiard Park is delightful, but its a long way from Toothill and particularly Sparcells. I would urge northern expansion residents to press Swindon Council to relocate the secondary school site, and also to start discussions on the kind of school local people want."

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Roughmoor residents get together Next meeting called for 15 October A day of consultations with the residents of Sparcells and Peatmoor in early September brought together thirty people interested in finding out more about setting up a residents' association for the area. Swindon Council are presently designing a combined primary school and community centre for the site north of the village centre which is due to open in September 1999. However the council is concerned to hear local views about this project and other issues that worry residents. Residents associations also act as pressure groups to get things done. A major concern of Sparcells residents at present is to see the long planned footbridge built over Mead Way to give easy and safe access to the village centre and school. The development of the village centre and the growing

height of the Shaw Tip park overlooking some houses in Sparcells are also points of interest. Following the consultation day, a formal meeting is planned for Wednesday 15 October, 730pm to 9pm, in Sparcells Community Centre. Representatives from other residents associations in Swindon and officers from the councils community development section will be present to discuss the setting up of a local association. All residents of Sparcells and Peatmoor are invited to attend. For more information, call Community Development Officer Gillian Morris on 466511.

Village Centre gets go ahead Roughmoor should have its own village centre within a year -il years after the first people moved into the area. Swindon Councils planning committee agreed the project submitted by Alldays convenience stores for a main shop comparable in size to that at Shaw centre, 5 smaller shop units, a pub to be operated by Whitbread and 21 houses. There will be seven flats above the shops. Residents expressed concern at a public exhibition of plans in July that the village centre could become the takeaway capital of the town, with up to four units on offer to fast food operators. The council has received an undertaking from the developer that two or

three units will be offered to takeaways, rather than 3 or 4. As part of the permission, the developer is required to keep the entire site including the shoreline of Peatmoor Lagoon clear of litter. Swindon Council principal planning officer Martin Trewhella, who has been trying to get the site developed since 1990, said he was pleased that Roughmoor Village Centre is soon to be built. "Were obviously delighted the scheme is underway at long last. Its a pleasant setting overlooking the lake, but we have tried not to dominate the tranquil setting."

Ukraine appeal speaker at Shaw Church An orphan and one-time teenage house breaker and now director of an international charity will be in Swindon on 2 November to talk about relief work in the Ukraine. Vic Jakopson, right, ; who runs Hope Now after a very chequered early life, has been organising humanitarian relief for the Ukraine over the last five years. The charity has helped orphanages and a school for deaf children, built a hostel, established a music school, organised children's summer camps and has started a trade school for ex-prisoners. In Swindon this year, £10,000 was raised to build a playground at an orphanage, and a collection by West Swindon schools produced two tons of essential items,

generously donated and sent to a newly discovered orphanage in a very poor condition. Hope Now is now asking schools and churches to organise a Harvest Festival shoe box appeal. Vic is visiting Swindon on Sunday 2 November. He will preach at Westlea Church, lOam service. At 1pm he will talk about Hope Now at a 'bring and share' lunch in Holy Trinity Church hall, Shaw Village Centre. Readers are invited to attend the talk and/or the service to find out more. Call Stephanie Glennie on 872578 for more information.

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Nursery nearly ready One of two brand new nursery units at local primary schools will be open in early October. Building works at Toothill School over the summer holidays are complete and nursery teacher Charmian Harrison and nursery nurse Nikki Redford, pictured right, have spent the early weeks of term unpacking furniture and arranging the unit ready for the first children. However, a delay in the delivery of storage cupboards has held up the opening. Headteacher Richard Jackson expressed delight at the arrival of the unit. "It's a superb environ-

pD OWPARk Nursery & Pre-Prep Individual Care Individual learnin at Prior Park Preparatory School Cricklade, Wiltshire " For children aged 6 months to 7 years (out of school and holiday provision 7.45am - 630pm) Please call Shelagh Hanbury BEd (Hons) Rajvindar Kular B.A (Hons)

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ment for young children to learn; an excellent resource for the community." The nursery will accomodate 26 children aged three and four years in a morning session, and the same number in the afternoon. A high fence around a landscaped play area ensures safety. Nursery teacher Charmian Harrison took up her post last term and has met all the parents and children who will be joining the school. "It's a lovely spacious room with lots of light. The equipment is new and very stimulating for the children. We have lots of traditional toys and learning materials, and also a computer to develop early IT skills." Children will be introduced to the nursery in small groups as soon as the last items of furniture arrive. Children from throughout West Swindon can attend, and there are a few places still available. They are free. Parents should contact the school on 497250 to enquire about places. â€˘ A second Swindon Council nursery unit will open at Salt Way School, Shaw at the end of October.

CRYSTAL CONSERVATORIES THE COMPLETE CONSERVATORY SERVICE No hidden extras

Lunch club looks for new cook Sixty pensioners in Toothill could go without lunch if a new cook is not found in the next few weeks. Stalwart Lily Wylie, 71, has decided to put her wooden spoon away after six years as cook at the Toothill Lunch Club. However, she wants to make sure there is a smooth handover to a successor and has committed herself to cooking and coordinating the club until Christmas. Lily joined the club, which meets on Wednesday in Toothill Community Centre, as a helper eleven years ago. It closed down six years, but reopened when Lily decided to take on the job.

"It's been good fun, but I've decided it's time to find somebody else," said Lily. "A new cook won't be on her or his own because we have built up a nice team of volunteers who take on the different jobs. They do the shopping, prepare the ingredients and serve lunch. We all work well together and the members appreciate our effort." Prospective cooks who want to know more should pop into Toothill Community Centre on a Wednesday morning, or leave a message for Lily on 614492.

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A friendly cuppa from, left to right, Shirley Grouvel, Vivienne Paxton, Maggie Adams, Elaine Waters More people have started to use Toothill Community Centre since volunteers opened a cafe at the end of July. Vivienne Paxton said, "the com"We needed to put some life into the centre; some people have said munity centre was not being used they didn't know it existed, even to its full potential. We're really though it's been open for over ten pleased by the interest the cafe has years," said Shirley Grouvel. created. We have lots of other "We serve tea and coffee and plans to get more people involved also meals. We have a special meal in the centre." The centre cafe is open between deal of hot dog or ham roll, cup of tea, a packet of crisps and a cake lOam and 2pm on Monday, Tuesfor a ÂŁ1. You can't beat it." day, Thursday and Friday.

MORTGAGE VICES

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For example, £50,000 would cost £235.08 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 2% for the first year, plus £1,500 cashback. (Maximum loan to value 95%) For example, £50,000 at 6.2% (APR 6.6%) would cost £235.08 per month interest only net of MIRAS (excluding insurance). This is a discount of 2% for the first two years. (Maximum loan to value 95%)

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NEGATIVE EQUITY MORTGAGES ALSO AVAILABLE 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.

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Swindon 772779 Representative Only of CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC for the purpose of effecting investment business introductions only. CORNHILL INSURANCE PLC is regulated by the Personal investment Authority for life assurance and pensions business'. Credit brnlxer teen of up to 1% on the advance maybe charged at completion depending on the type at product and credit period. Rate applied is 62% (6.6% APR) for one year. APR is variable. Rates may vary. A written quotation on loans can be obtained on request. Only available to parsons 18 yearn of age or over. Subject to status. Subject to our Current lending criteria. A 2% reduction applied to the variable base mortgage rate, currently 6.2%. Those applicants benefiting from this special discount who redeem their mortgage within tour years from the date 01 completion will be charged an additional ore months interest. This charge will be reimbursed it a new mortgage Is than taken out with the Society. Example: A married couple aged 30 years and 28 years, both non-smokers, applying for an endowment mortgage of £50,000 over a 25 year arm (300 monthly payments), completing Sabre 30 November 1997 secured against a property being purchased for £55,000. 300 monthly mortgage payments net of tax 01 £235.08. Monthly endowment premium at £74.96 Total amount payable £143,267. Calculated to Include valuation tee £t 55 and arrangement lee of £100. This calculation is based on the assumption that the discounted rate will apply throughout the leon at the loan. Maximum loan £t 50,. The 6.2% rate applies to loans up to and including 95% at the purchase price or valuation, whichever Is the tower, The discounted rate Is applicable to, one year, after which the tharr current rate will apply, mi-en an applicant is borrowing more 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

The Link Magazine โ ข October 1997

Girls team switcs club and gains new sponsor A group of footballing girls have moved their club allegiance from

Shaw to play under the banner of Chiseldon FC. The girls train on the Greendown School astro-turf pitch and, as members of the South Wales girls league, travel as far as Cardiff for away games. Last year the team was pictured in The Link wearing team shirts sponsored by WH Smith. In September, the girls took delivery of training tops sponsored by Wootton Bassett based shop fitting firm Railstons. The club runs two teams, ui tder 12s and under 16s, and are always interested in meeting girls who would like to join. For more information, call Sue Povey on 875271. Left: Railston director Len Kirly, centre, hands over the training tops, to team manager Ian Povey and players, Railston employee Julie Shaw, left.

Players celebrate promotion

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A group of tennis players who met while attending the Delta Tennis Centre's recreation sessions for beginners and improvers, have won their way into the premier flight of North Wiltshire tennis after several years climbing the league ladder. In 1991, enthusiastic players Matt Holland from Shaw and John Tregoning from Woodhall Park invited others to create a team, adopting the name Delta after their home venue.

Starting at the bottom of Division 5, with tongue in cheek and a competitive spirit, they set themselves the target of reaching Division 1 by the end of the century. Things did not start well in the 1997 season. After three straight defeats, promotion hopes looked bleak. But play improved and a narrow 5 - 3 victory in the final match of the season clinched their objective, with a couple of years to spare. Now they have time to become top team in the league.

Promotion for Delta players: from left, Kevin Cole, John Tregoning, Matt Holland, Rob Merritt, with team mascot fake Holland in front. Team members not pictured, Roger Lan gjohn, Chris Baker, Ian Peters-Phillips

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RECREATION Leisure for Life

It's nearly half-term already! Join us at Link and Oasis Leisure Centre this October for lots of activities and social events to keep all age groups occupied writes Alison Bruce. Half term holiday camp will be tern competition for 5 to 7 year running during the school holi- olds. See camp leaflets for details, days from 27 to 31 October, 9.30am you could win a one month skate to 330pm daily. 5-7 year olds and pass. All our fitness activities includ8 - 12 year olds will be kept occupied with various structured ac- ing the Active Lifestyle Centres tivities from swimming to arts and have plenty to offer at this time of year. You still have a chance to get crafts, ball sports to ice skating. Registration will take place on into shape before the onset of from Sunday 12 October, 6.30pm, Christmas and those lazy winter at Link Centre and from Monday evenings. If you would like any further 13 October, 10am at Oasis. Please contact individual centres for more information contact Link Centre, tel: 445566 or Oasis, tel: 445401. information. Link Centre will be holding a We'll be pleased to meet you. Long pool closure: The Link CenHalloween on Ice session on Friday 31 October, 815pm to 1030pm. tre's pool will be shut for about 8 All skaters are welcome to join the weeks from early January for a spooktacular event. There will be E100,000 repair and refurbishment. fun, games and prizes plus the lat- The centre's 12,000 swimmers will est chart sounds. We are also run- have to visit pools at the Oasis, ning a Halloween pumpkin lan- Wroughton, Hydro and Dorcan.

Baseball coaches needed Little League Baseball is going to be launched in Swindon in the summer of 1998 and the organisers are looking for volunteers to train as coaches and to establish teams in their home communities. A coaching course will be organised when people respond. For more information, contact Richard Clarke on Swindon 490366 or Nikki Green on 511033.

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Loser friendly consultants Monday: 6.00pm & 800pm St John's Church, Haydon Wick. Nicole, 613923 Tuesday: 9.30am Toothill Community Centre, Dunwich Drive. Jenny, 613423 7.00pm. Holy Trinity Church, Shaw Centre. Kaye, 874976 Thursday: 7.00pm Freshbrook Community Centre, Worsley Road. Nicole, 613923

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Library gets ready for open week Swindon libraries are planning a big week of events between 3 and 9 November. A Health Fair takes place on 4 November at West Swindon library with displays and demonstrations by lots of complementary therapies and charitable organisations. More details next month. New books in October Patricia Cornwell Unnatural Exposure. Dr Kay Scarpetta thinks a psychopath is loose in Virginia. Tessa Barclay The Precious Gft. Laura, a nurse, discovers she can heal just by laying her hands on people. Danielle Steel The Ghost. When Charles Waterstons marriage ends, he stays in a haunted chateau where he learns to let go of the past. P. D. James A Certain Justice. After defending a man accused of mur-

dering his aunt, Venetia Aldridge QC, is found murdered in her chambers. Jon Cleary A Different Turf. A Scobie Malone novel. In Sydney's gay community someone has taken the law into their own hands and is eliminating "gay bashers". Andy McNab Remote Control. When his friend is killed along with all his family, except his nineyear old daughter, ex-SAS soldier Nick Stone is suspected of murder.

Pictured above with West Swindon librarian Joyce Kirk-Brown is Saturday assistant Rachel Wood who produced top notch GCSE results this summer. The Bradon Forest student from Grange Park achieved an impressive 9 A stars and 2 As. Rachel is now studying A' level Art, English and Economics at The Ridgeway School 6th Form.

The Mayor of Swindon Maurice Fanning called into the library on 18 September to view a display of art and craft work produced on Swindon Council run playschemes during the summer holidays. He is pictured above with playworker Teresa Quinn

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Pascal Watson, who teaches French to children in small groups in her home and in local primary schools, says "It's so important for children to start learning a language early. They pick up the words, phrases and most important the accent. It gives them confidence and a very good start when they go on to secondary school."

Children attend in small groups in Pascal's home after school during term time and she is presently enrolling new children. In addition to weekly sessions, she occasionally runs a whole day of activity where children rehearse a short play and make a video, all in French. She also teaches GCSE and A' level, and tutors adults on an individual basis. There is no membership fee to join Pascal's childrens classes and the cost of all learning materials are included in the £3 an hour charge. Parents who want their children to have an early start in French can contact Pascal on 870549. Left: Pascal Watson with some of her pupils, rear from left, Tony Wood, Kelly Smith, Sophie Ridge. Front, Benjamin Morris, Ben Williamson, Yasin Watson

The Link Magazine â€˘ October 1997

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It was good to be back in Swindon for the summer recess, away from the fumes of London, writes Julia Drown, MP for Swindon South. Many people think that the summer period, when MPs are not at Westminster, is just a holiday for them. Nothing could be further from the truth for me. With the exception of a family holiday my schedule was just as busy. After Parliament broke up I had meetings with business people about getting the long-term unemployed back into work. I met heateachers and school governors to discuss raising education standards and I held extra advice surgeries. The siting of the hospital has been the big topic of discussion. I have asked the planners to consider more than one site so that Swindon people can be consulted on the best solution for the town. One lighter day was spent supporting local artists who were making a film on the new 101 Labour women MPs. We were at the railway station at 430am - I've never seen it so quiet! I was in India when I heard the tragic news of Princess Diana's death. I met Diana when she opened an old people's home in the village where I was a county councillor. She charmed everyone. Her work on Aids and against landmines deserves to be remembered for generations. On the day of her funeral I was invited to watch the moving service on TV with an Indian family. Diana had also visited India and the family was proud to have been

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Deb's Sunbeds Home Rental Fast tanning canopies - with or without facial boosters â€˘ Doubles also available Free installation and local delivery Tel: Swindon 421665 anytime (Mobile 0378 - 641052) able to show her their fine city. India is a land of great contrasts. It has the most beautiful ancient palaces. Yet outside them you find very poor people who make a living by whatever means possible. The roads offer the chaos of every form of transport imaginable from buses to camels to bicycles to elephants. Yet the railways provide an official national computerised booking system. Now that I am back in England the images I retain of India are fantastic scenery, hospitable people and a great diversity of lifestyles. The pity with such memorable holidays is that they are over all too quickly. Before we know it, we will be back to Westminster. Time for me to go and talk to the Minister about the terrible state of the Child Support Agency. If you want to contact me about any matter, please write to me, Julia Drown MP, 39 Victoria Road, Swindon SN1 3AT or telephone the office on 615444.

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Know your options at big exhibition City and Guilds? BTEC? NVQ? Directions Training? A' levels? GNVQ? RSA? What does it all mean? Are you aware of your options?. The annual Options Education, Training and Employment exhibition at the Oasis Leisure Centre on Wednesday 22 October is the place to find out writes Louise Smith of Lifetime Careers Wiltshire. There willbe over 60 stands with For more information, come representatives from educational along. We look forward to helping institutions, major local employ- you make the right decision. ers, training organisations and Lifetime Careers. 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 can offer further options, such as Modern Apprenticeships and Directions Training Exhibition organiser Angela Williams, programmes. left, with Louise Smith

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The Link Magazine & October 1997

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Nearly a year has passed since 12 year old Ashley Johnson from Toothill was knocked down as he ran across Whitehill Way, towards Shaw Ridge Leisure Park on 28 September. He died at Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital on 4 October. Hopefully a safe crossing point willbe built in the next few months after a long campaign by his mother Diane, right. "It's been a difficult year, as you might expect," said Diane. "To have somebody so loved and full of cheeky enthusiasm for life snatched away so suddenly has been hard. The inner pain does not go away. I wouldn't wish such a tragedy on anyone." Reports in the evening paper After Ashley's death, Diane raised £500 for the John Radcliffe earlier in the year suggested that it hospital with a sponsored trampo- would not be b uilt. line bounce by Ashley's Ridgeway However Keith Ulyatt for SwinSchool friends and a disco. don Council said, "funds havebeen She also started a campaign for a allocated to build the crossing and safe crossing point. Over 6,000 research is currently taking place people signed a petition calling on to make sure that it is constructed Swindon Borough Council to make in the right place Whitehill Way safe for pedestriWork will start as soon as possians. ble"

Nine night festival at Link Centre Members of the Swindon Hindu Samaj will be celebrating the annual Festival of Navratri at the Link Centre from 2 to 10 October. The festival is one of the most popular within the Hindu community and over nine evenings it is a chance to come together to worship and celebrate the Goddess Shakti Devi Dhurga with music, dance and socialising. A chequefor £500 raised through fund raising events by the Hindu Samaj was presented to the PMH Special Baby Care Unit on 16 September. Pictured receiving the donation from Ashok Ladva, president of the Samaj, Sushma Pate! and Prakash Pate!, secretary, are Senior Sister Sheila Hext and staff nurser Claire Elcott

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Share your home this Christmas An international inter-cultural educational organisation is looking for families willing to host students aged between 15 and 18 years in their homes for six weeks from mid-December. This year students from Argentina, Brasil and Malaysia on the AFS Intercultural Education Christmas Programme will arrive to experience living in another culture. They become another member of the family for a short time, attending school, taking part in community activities and joining in with any Christmas celebrations

that are planned. The students have their own spending money and the organisation pays travel expenses. Families are asked to provide a home, food, care and interest in the student and their experiences. No payment is involved. To provide a home for a student, call AFS on 01274 - 560677

Have you seen the writing on the wall?

SwrnDon BOROUGH COUflCIL

Graffiti News

What are your views on graffiti?

Trying to deal with a major problem

Please return this survey which has been compiled with assistance from young people in West Swindon

CLeaning Services Manager Geoff Davies writes:

Do you see graffiti as an opportunity to display art?

I know that Swindon residents are concerned about graffiti, especially where it is sprayed on walls in public places and on private property. We recognise that there are different kinds of graffiti. A number of readers will consider some graffiti as works of public art. However a lot of the spray painted 'tagging' seen on walls and lamp posts is no more than vandalism. Nearly £40,000 a year is spent by the council's Health & Public Protection Department removing graffiti from highway structures and on applying special coatings to subways. Additionally other departments such as housing spend large sums dealing with properties under their control. Our resource are not sufficient to clear all the graffiti, though offensive graffiti is cleaned as a matter of urgency. What the council cannot do is remove the graffiti from your home because of limitation placed on it by legislation. A working group of interested parties such as the Local and British Transport police, the youth service, the play service, community development and local residents has been meeting to discuss the problem. This newsletter is the first practical initiative by the group. It may be useful to give a few hints on the removal of graffiti in case your property is attacked: • It is important to act quickly especially when the surface is brick or porous blocks. Use a paint stripper product and follow the manufacturer's guidance contained on the packaging. It may be wise to buy a small container initially so that you can be sure that the product works before spending greater sums. • Discuss what has occurred with your home insurers, frequently vandalism against your home can be the subject of an insurance claim to enable removal by professionals. • Consider masking vulnerable surfaces from similar attacks by growing dense and/or broadleafed plants against the structure. Quick growing plants such as ivy and contoneaster are ideal.

YES NO

Do you see graffiti as a problem? Would you attend a meeting in order to discuss this issue? Do you see a difference between graffiti art and vandalism? Do you think that the same people do both? Do you like the dull grey walls on the underpasses?

Former Westlea School headteacher Neil Griffiths pictured with vandalism on a classroom last year • Please report any suspicious behaviour to the police and notify them if you experience graffiti being applied to your property. Much work is being done to apprehend offenders and information is vital for the ongoing investigation. Please be assured that Swindon Borough Council recognises graffiti as a quality of life issue and understands the concerns of its residents. We are looking at various options for action. One could be to provide an 'official' space for graffiti to take place, where peer education can take place. On the other hand, should we do nothing and hope the forces of law and order can respond appropriately? We would be grateful for your comments to the survey on the right.

Would you like to see the dull grey wall brightly patterned? Do you think that it would be constructive to offer a specific space for artists to complete their 'pieces'? Do you think that this would stop some of the vandalism? Has any part of your home been damaged by graffiti vandals? If you have any other views on this controversial issue or have an idea on how the problem could be addressed, please write your comments here:

Who else to contact Swindon Borough Council can only clean graffiti off its own property. Call these agencies if it appears elsewhere: British Gas 0117 953 5444 British Telecom 151 Southern Electric 0345 444555 Swindon Cable 615601 Thames Water 0645 200 800

Please drop this survey into a box at: West Swindon Library, Link Centre i or the Haydon Centre, Thames Avenue, or post to: The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ

18 The Link Magazine • October 1997

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Writing for the Press Introductory courses for would-be journalists, called Writing for the Press, are to be held in Swindon starting in October.

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"Editors are always looking for work to media deadlines. good news and feature stories," "The courses are suitable for said tutor Mike Stares, a local free- those considering a future career lance journalist whose courses are in the media, or for people who officially accredited by the Na- would like to write articles, on a tional Council for the Training of freelance basis, about their interJournalists (NCTJ). ests or expertise," said Mike. The programme has a strong "Alternatively, they might conpractical emphasis rather than a sider becoming a correspondent lecture format, and is aimed at for The Link!" building confidence and sharpenA one-day course is to be held ing up writing skills. on 25 October and a six-week Students will learn what makes evening class starts on 29 October, news and how to find it; inter- both held in Old Town. viewing and note-taking; marketFor more details, contact Mike ing and presentation, plus how to on 485461.

A new estate agency has been established to serve the housing market in North West Swindon: Peatmoor, Sparcells, Haydon Wick and Woodhall Park. Peter Hall has established Green Abbey Estates on Thames Avenue after several years with Allen & Harris gaining experience valuing and selling properties across North Swindon. In 1993 he was their top performing negotiator. "We pride ourselves on making buying and selling your home easier for you," said Peter Green Abbey Estates can be contacted on 531734.

Fixed rate mortgage benefits Since the election, interest rates have moved upwards which has affected homeowners who are on a standard variable rate mortgage, writes Mike Rees of West Swindon's longest established mortgage advisors Mansfield Begbie Associates We have been recommending to housebuyers who are due to move to a second/third home or first time buyers to go for a fixed rate loan which guarantees the payment over a set period. The lower the term, the higher the rate but it gives you security in balancing —J your budget. You need to ensure that the loan Even though there is not much to is portable (i.e. that you can take it choose between the top building with you to another property, with- societies and banks I would recoutpenalty), either during the fixed ommend you consult a mortgage rate term or for the period follow- broker who can scout the market ing when you usually have to stay on your behalf to find the deal that on the lender's standard variable suits your financial circumstances. rate for a set number of years. There also seems to be a shortage I have recently moved house and of property available on the maropted for a fixed rate loan at a ket at present which is resulting in certain rate, which is now no longer quicker completions and more available following the recent rate 'asking prices' being accepted. increases, so it therefore makes It also makes sense to try and get sense to opt for a guarantee rather your mortgage arranged in princithan face the risk of changes in ple which can give you a headstart rates, probably upwards, for the over other potential purchasers. next few years. We can organise this for you with However, there are so many dif- a variety of lenders. ferent rates and deals available, For further information and adwho do you approach for advice? vice, please me on 01793 771757. I.-

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The Mayor of Swindon, councillor Maurice Fanning, recently visited the Swindon Disabled Bowling Club to try out a ramp made by trainees at the Hobbs Unit for people with learning difficulties.

Club organiser Phil Rashid said, "the ramp is an excellent resource for the club and also for regular users of the Super Bowl. It will help members develop the coordination skills that able-bodied people take for granted. "Lifting the balls and bowling is

quite difficult if you've had a stroke munity. The Disabled Bowling or you're in a wheelchair. The Club meets at the Swindon Super thrill of hitting the pins and the Bowl on the last Wednesday of the delight on the face of members month from 2pm to 4pm. Newwhen they do is fantastic." comers are always welcome. He said the club gives the chance Transport can be arranged. Call for disabled people to participate Phil Rashid on 872803 for more in every-day activities in the com- information.

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Activities down on the farm October courses and workshops at Lower Shaw Farm on Old Shaw Lane: Weekend 10th 12th Working Party Jobs around the farm. Gardening, wood splitting, poultry keeping. Good company and food Saturday 18th Cycling Together Day out bike riding for anyone who likes pedalling in company Weekend 17th 19th Basket Making Learn to make your own basket and take it home Tuesday 21st Under 5s Autumn Activities, lOam 12.30pm Seasonal crafts for children, parents and carers. Bring a picnic lunch Friday 24th Stencilling Day, lOam 2.30pm -

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Classes to improve your English Swindon College runs two English classes for speakers of other languages at West Swindon Family Centre, 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook. Intermediate English is on Wednesdays, 1230pm to 230pm and Beginners English is on Friday 930am to 1130am. Both classes are free. On Fridays there is a creche but it must be booked in advance. Come along and join in or telephone Russ Hawton on 498308 for more information.

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Classes for parents, grandparents, guardians and regular carers who wish to both improve their own reading and writing and help their child or children are held at: • West Swindon Library, Mondays 930am 1130am • Toothill School, Mondays 1245pm- 245pm • Oliver Tomkins School, Wednesdays 1pm 3pm. These classes are now free. For further information come along or leave a message for Debs Osorio on 498468 -

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

Link helps get archive underway

Get creative

A collection of photographs taken for The Link has been presented to the organisers of the Old Town Festival to help launch an archive collection. Organising committee member Shirley Ludford said she was delighted to receive the pictures and also photographs from 1991 donated by Jeff Denby of Toothill. "More people attended this years festival than ever, helped I have no doubt by the excellent feature in the July Link magazine," said Shirley. "The photographs are very welcome; they make us more aware of preserving images from the past festivals. All we need now is an official archivist to organise them."

The Bradford Players, based at the Old Town Arts Centre, are inviting young people aged 15 to 26 to submit original scripts. Threewill be selected for production next year. The 'From Page to Stage' project is made possible by an Arts 4 Everyone grant. For details, call Matthew Herring on 0976 922878. The Ligden Poetry Society is running a free to enter competition for over 16s until the end of the year. Original work which has not been previously published should be sent, typed, to the society at 34 Lineacre Close, Grange Park.

Swindon Media Arts is now booking for half term halloween A fundraising campaign to set up a animation, special f/x and scary new Sports and Social Club for sound workshops for 8s to 16s. For Dorcan is launched on Saturday 18 details, call 463224 October, 12 noon to 11 pm with a Mammoth Open Day at the Faraday I. Club in Faraday Road. There will be live entertainment and lots of exciting attractions. People across Swindon are invited to attend. For details, call 694779. Volunteers needed to listen to someone with a learning difficulty, to speak up for them and to Junction 16 Theatre Group presents protect their rights. Agatha Christie's A Murder is Training & support given. Announced at Greeridown School, on l8andl9October. Contact Ken Swindon Advocacy Kimber on 882378 for tickets. Movement The group is open to anyone with THE HEALTH HYDRO an interest in theatre regardless of MILTON ROAD • SWINDON experience or ability. Newcomers Telephone 465640 .1 are always made welcome. I.

Getting social in Dorcan

Old Town Festival committee members Ted and Shirley Ludford holding the archive photos

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30 September to Sunday19 October Photographic exhibition The World Vision by lain Massie. Arts Centre Wednesday 1 October Music The Cheap Seats, Great Britains best new country band. Wyvern, 8pm. £8.50 Thursday 2 October Comedy The Buck and Bunnies Roadshow, starring Graham Buck. Wyvern, 730pm. £9.50 Thursday 2 October to Saturday 4 October Drama Old Town Theatre Company presents Elizabeth by Dario Fo. A radical re-interpretation of the reign of Queen Elizabeth I set in 1601. Arts Centre, 730pm. £4 Friday 3 October Salsa disco Crossways Suite Moonrakers, 830pm to lam. £4.95, from Swindon Information Centre Saturday 4 October Workshop Stencilling. Lydiard House, 1030am - 1230pm. £2.50. Book on 770401 Music The Morriston R.F.0 Mate Voice Choir. Wyvern, 730pm. £7 Sunday 5 October Music Evening of Historic Big Band Jazz, with support of the Musicians Union. Arts Centre, 730pm. £5 Music Voulez-Vous, the ultimate ABBA experience. Wyvern, 8pm. £9.50 Monday 6 October Music Music Club presents Terry Busby Trio. Arts Centre, 7.45pm Music Richie Kavanagh. Wyvern, 730pm. £10 Salsa lessons Every Monday, beginners & improvers, Crossways Suite Moon-rakers, 7.45pm. £3.50. Details from Ritmo Latino on 814354 Tuesday 7 October Music Think Floyd - the definitive Pink Floyd experience. Wyvern, 8pm. £8.50 Wednesday 8 October Dance The Random Dance Company present The Millennarium. Wyvern, 8pm. £9 Salsa lessons Every Wednesday, beginners & improvers, Fusion, Old Town, 7.45pm. £3.50. Details from Ritmo Latino on 814354 Thursday 9 October Music Brothers In Arms perform the best loved songs of Dire Straits. Wyvern, 8pm. £9 Music A concert by Kentwood Choir in aid of Thamesdown Osteoporosis Group. St Marks Church, Church Place, Swindon, 730pm. £3, details from Brenda Hobbs on 770445 Thursdays 9, 16, 23 October, 6, 13 20 November Art course Life Drawing - six self supervised sessions. Bring a drawing board and materials. Some easels provided. Booking is for 6 sessions in advance. Arts Centre, 7pm - 9pm £18.00 (E15 GCH)

Friday 10 October Music Alan Price and The Electric Blues Company. Arts Centre, 730pm. £12.50. Theatre Supper after show, £3 if paid for in advance Comedy Donna McPhail. Wyvern, 8pm. £10 Saturday 11 October Workshop Designer Metals Day Design a one off piece of jewellery with jewellery maker, Can! Behr. Arts Centre,lOam - 4pm. £25 Comedy Richard Morton (right) plus Dave Thompson. Not suitable for children. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.50 Sunday 12 October Music Des O'Connor. Wyvern, 730pm. £12.50 Music The Swindon Recital Series - Bethan Dudley and Paul Turner. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7. For tickets and Swindon Recital Series brochure, contact Dawn Ball: 644051. Advance tickets not available at Arts Centre Monday 13 October Music Dr Hook featuring Ray Sawyer. Wyvern, 730pm. £13 Tuesday 14 October Drama The Lady of the House of Love. A chilling love story of vampiric passion. The production fuses text with startling imagery to create macabre, dramatic theatre. Post-show discussion with the cast. Arts Centre, 730pm. £6.50 Music Steeleye Span, with special guests Rock Salt & Nails. Wyvern, 8pm. £12 Wednesday 15 October Entertainer Julian Clary performing in aid of the NSPCC Swindon Centre. Wyvern, 8pm. £13.50 Literature The Arts Centre in association with the Swindon Festival Of Literature and Swindon Storytellers presents Storytelling Extravaganza with Jan Blake and Tuup. Arts Centre, 730pm. £5.00 Thursday 16 October Drama William Tell. The hilarious story of how Rossini finally manages to create his greatest work is unfurled in true Natural Theatre Co style. Dancing cuckoo clocks, whistling cheeses, crossbows, catchy melodies, free apples for a fortunate few. Arts Centre, 730pm. £8.50 Music Max Boyce with special guests. Wyvern, 730pm. £10 Friday 17 October Talk & Music All You Ever Wanted To Know About Opera by Peter Knapp. Wyvern, 730pm. £10 Music Stockton's Wing, the band that has consistently pushed back the boundaries of Irish traditional music. Arts Centre, 8pm. 29

October overview Saturday 18 October Workshop Wire Sculpture. Swindon Museum & Art Gallery, 1030am -12.3Opm. £2. Book on 466556 Workshop Learn the basics of taking photographs and how to develop and print them. Suit 11 - 15 year olds. Link Centre, 1 Oam - 4pm £16 Music The Magic Flute presented by Travelling Opera. Wyvern, 730pm. £15, £12.50 Music 'Music for Voices' by the Oriel Singers. St Mary's Church, Purton, 730pm. £5, family ticket £15, Music Great Composers, Great Songs & Jazz sung by Salena Jones. Arts Centre, 8pm. £8.50 Sunday 19 October Music An Evening With Gilbert & Sullivan. Wyvern, 730pm. £8 Monday 20 October Music The Music Club presents Pau lArmstrong (Pianist). Arts Centre. 7.45pm Tuesday 21 October to 9 November Exhibition Textures of Landscape by Janet Bernasconi -paintings on textured papers evoking landscape and tree forms. Arts Centre Wednesday 22 October to Saturday 1 Nov, (except 26 Oct) Music Swindon Amateur Light Opera Society presents Me And My Girl. Wyvern, 730pm, matinees 25 Oct & 1 Nov, 230pm. From £6.50 Saturday 25 October Workshop A Hat for all Seasons. Stitch silks, velvets or tweeds into hats with fashion designer Carole Ingram. For beginners and experienced. Arts Centre,lOam - 4pm. £17 Workshop Decorative Flowerpots. Lydiard House, 1030am. £2.50, flower pot supplied. Book on 770401 Comedy New Entries. 2 new plays from Bradford Players Theatre. Check press for details. Arts Centre, 7.30pm. £4.00 Monday 27 October Music nsfolknight '97 -An Evening with Vikki Clayton and Friends. An awareness-raising event as part of the National Schizophrenia Fellowship 25th Anniversary celebrations. Arts Centre, 8pm. £7.00

William Tell or humble Bramley saved the world. The Arts Centre, 16 October

25 Tuesday 28 October Workshop Scary Cards. Lydiard House, 1030am - 12 noon. £2. Book on 770401 Thursday 30 October Children Mr Men & the Magic Toyshop. Wyvern, 11am & 2pm. £6.50 Workshop Halloween Party Prep - make frightening table decorations and party hats. GWR Museum. £2

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Film at the Arts Centre Wednesday 8 October 7.45pm Ridicule (15), France 1996 Court intrigue and corrution court of Louis XVI. Presented by Swindon Film Society (SFS) Thursday 9 October 7.45pm Basquiat (15) Exploration of the life of unknown 19 year old graffiti artist Jean-Michel Basquiatthis £3.50 Wednesday 22 October, 7.45pm Kolya (12), Czech Republic 1996 Academy Award Winner for Best Foreign Film. SFS presentation Thursday 23 October & Friday 24 October, 7.45pm She's The One (15) This film explores the complicated love lives of a pair of Irish-American brothers in New York. £3.50 Tuesday 28 October, 7.45pm Intimate Relations (15) A dark but comic film based on truelife events in a respectable northern town in 1954. Starring Rupert Graves and Julie Walters. £3.50 Wednesday 29 October, 7.45pm The Day the Sun Turned Cold, (12) China 1994 A finely observed film, based on a true story about a young man who forces the police to investigate his suspicions that ten years previously his mother murdered his father...

Envoy the £1 O Sunday lunch menu Feast upon the 8 dishes set before you. (6 for children) Treat your family to lunch this Sunday at The Chinese Experience Sunday Lunch Spring Rolls Capital Spare Ribs Spicy Chicken Beef in Black Bean Sauce Chicken with Bamboo Shoots & Mushrooms Egg Fried Rice Singapore Rice Noodles Toffee Banana •tO% service charge applicable

Booking Recommended

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Volunteers needed to support victims Being the victim of a crime can be a traumatising experience. Worries and concerns do not always manifest themselves immediately. Stress can be caused later when trying to find out information about how the police case is proceeding or how to obtain compensation or when returning home alone to a house which had been broken into. Victim Support Wiltshire currently receives information about a thousand crimes a month either from the police or by self referrals from individual victims. We are now looking for new volunteers in the Swindon area to provide victims and their families with appropriate information and support to help them deal with the crime they have experienced. All we need is a little of your spare time, training is provided and expenses are reimbursed. For further information please call Dave or Pat on 01380 729476.

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Swindon (01793)525433 tant. However, working together with other people in your local community can also do a great deal to reduce the chances of theft. Neighbourhood Watch Schemes are effective in helping to reduce crime and the fear of crime. But it does mean that neighbours have to talk to each other and agree to keep a look out for one another. NHW gives advice, free literature, free UV pens and postcoding facilities for bicycles and lawnmowers. We update scheme members on crime patterns and what to be looking out for. From the evidence, crime is lower in areas which are covered by schemes. In my role as Neighbourhood Watch liaison officer, scheme members tell me they feel much safer because they have taken measures to improve the security of their homes and they are aware that others around them are just as concerned about how disruptive crime is. In Wiltshire we have a low crime rate. This is a result of good policing and effective use of resources. To ensure this is ongoing, we must not be complacent and part of our daily routine should be to beat the burglar or car thief by safe guarding our property. If you are not already a member of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, I would welcome the opportunity to send you details of how to join our team - the team that wins. Telephone me on 891389.

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The Link Magazine 9 October 1997

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Win a compost making kit Swindon Council is trying to reach the government target of 25% of household waste being recycled by the year 2000. Householders can help by compost maker and a compost composting kitchen vegetable aerator. scraps and garden clippings and 1. How much household and garden waste could be corncuttings which can be reused to posted? improve garden soil. About 30% of all household waste is made up 2. Which of the following should of this organic material and does not be composted - grass cuttings, plastic bottles, banana not have to go into the dustbin and skins, tin cans, egg shells. end up in landfill sites. Here's a chance to win a home 3. What is the Government target for recycling household composting kit worth over £20 to waste by year 2000? help turn kitchen and garden waste Send your entries to The Link into great compost, thanks to Blackwall Ltd. Answer the follow- (Compost Comp.), 13 Castle Dore, ing questions and you could win a Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ by kitchen green bin for scraps, liquid 10 November

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The competiton, sponsored by and displayed on Swindon buses Burmah Castrol, is open to young during December. The bird box/ entrants in three categories: under table design will also be produced. The closing date for entries is 31 8, 8 to 11, 12 to 16, with prizes October. For more details, contact worth over £100 in each. The top prize is £50 and the over- Sarah Baird at the Great Western all winning poster will be printed Community Forest on 466315.

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Jenny Poole, Scrapstore development worker takes delivery of card offcuts from John Muskett, right, of book binders Beale & Partners of Cheney Manor, watched by Swindon Council recycling officer Sean Spencer-Wart

A Swindon recycling project wants residents and business to hand over waste materials so that community groups can put it to good use. Swindon Community Scrapstore collects a huge range of offcuts and material that would normally go to the dump. Twentyeight per cent of all waste in Wiltshire comes from commercial and industrial sources. What is waste to some can easily be used by preschool groups, after school and holiday clubs, and playschemes for creative work. Residents can also save up and contribute plastic containers, pots and foil to be reused. For more information about the Scrapstore, call 513982.

Help for butterflies John Ball from Grange Park, who has appeared many times in The Link to publicise his projects to create butterfly friendly environments, is appealing for more people to work with him to establish a Swindon FAB (Flowers & Butterfly) support group. He has thousands of wild flower seedlings to give away to establish butterfly friendly patches around the town. To find out more, give John a call on 877261.

SwinDon

BOROUGH COUflC1L

le44 Hg4k, Swindon Borough Council would like to invite you to take part in our recycling initiative aimed at reducing the 64,000 tonnes of domestic waste created within the Borough last year and disposed of through landfill. Up to 30% of this household and garden waste is organic and can be recycled to produce a nutritious compost for your garden. In an effort to reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfill, we have made home composting bins available to residents, to encourage you to recycle much of this waste by composting. To get you started we have purchased a quantity of Blackwall CompostAbins and are offering them to you at £16, a saving of £13.95 on the usual price! This scheme was first launched in May and over 3,500 residents have already taken up the offer, so do yourself and the environment a favour and get composting!

Lester Lewis Chief Health and Public Protection Officer Swindon Borough Council

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The Link Magazine • October 1997

tudents to give PudSey a marketing makeover for Children in -ed

ROTTEN WOOD? PEELING PAINT DRIPPING GUTTERS?

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Pudsey takes centre stage with Swindon BT community relations manager David Latham and Greendown students, from left, Gemma Adams, Peter Davis, Tracy Luckett, Leanne West, Lee Edmonds, Lorna Thompson

For a free quote

Tel: 827494 anytime

Year 11 Business Studies students at Greendown School are helping Pudsey Bear promote the BBC Children in Need campaign in November. This year, CiN in the town will space station could also be the main The students were approached by Swindon BT community rela- be even bigger than ever before TV studio for the south-west retions manager David Latham to said David Latham. "Last year we gional output. We'll be installing take up the project and they are turned BT's headquarters at North several hundred donation pledge developing lots of ideas to get Star into Space Station Pudsey for lines and are planning for several Swindon people backing the char- the day. The BBC were so im- thousand visitors. It's going to be pressed that they asked us if the really exciting." ity.

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The Link Magazine • October 1997 31

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

Ocailkz Sftee44e €/e * Bone Meal 3kg Rec. price 519 Our price £3.49 * Murphy 80 litre compost Only £3.99

In 1990 Jayne Seaton from Braydonstoke vowed she would get married in Hawaii after a visit to the islands. And so it came to pass when she met Jimmy Dickinson from Toothill. Accompanied by fifteen friends and relations, and joined by two American friends, they flew out to tie the knot and exchange lei garlands in traditional Hawaiin style on 23 August. The wedding ceremony took place in a luxurious hotel, surrounded by tropical gardens with the rolling Pacific ocean in the distance. Jayne, who works in the marketing department at Halcrow Engineering, and Jimmy, an electrician with a Swindon firm, returned to live in Sparcells after a honeymoon in paradise on a neighbouring island.

* Bulldog lawn rake Only £7.99 See our winter flowering hanging baskets plus planted up terra cota 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

Better health prospects Patients at Toothill's Phoenix surgery are getting better health care, thanks to their own efforts. During the first half of the year raffles, auctions and coffee morning organised by the Friends of the Phoenix surgery raised over £1,000 to buy a portable, battery operated EGG heart monitor. Phoenix GP Dr Peter Swinyard said the efforts made by the friends had been tremendous. "The portable EGG machine allows me to investigate heart problem more easily. Pa-

tients will no longer have to travel to the hospital for tests." The Friends' next fund raising project to buy the surgery an adjustable couch for minor operations is well underway. Keen cyclist patient Les Marshallsay helped get the collection on the road on 23 August by cycling 90 miles from Swindon to Swanage.

Dr Peter Swin yard gives Les Marshalisay a check-up before his ride with help from FOPS committee member Freda Troughton holding the ECG machine

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The Link Magazine October 1997

TRUSTMOVE REMOVALS & STORAGE Containerised Storage Single items • Piano specialists For a free quotation, call Swindon: 430501/728807

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The National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham will become a giant indoor theme park at half-term, 24 - 27 October. I I There will be massive attractions, lots of well known ' stars and loads of surprises. To win a family pass, send The Link your name and address by 16 September. If you don't win, tickets can be booked on 0121 767 4477.

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The Great Western Family Carriage, a dedicated train carriage for parents and children will be running during half term and Christmas school holidays. Great Western are offering Link readers the chance to take a trip anywhere on their network for free. To make a trip even more exciting, youngsters on the Family Carriage receive an entertaining activity pack including colouring pencils, a magazine, a model train and postcard. There's also special children's sandwiches and cookies available for young travellers. To win a family ticket for two adults and three children, tell us the name of the furthest South West station on the Great Western route by 10 November.

Alan Trask of Ultra Clean

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The Link Magazine . October 1997

School Town tie-up

On the move

Ridgeway School has done a deal with Swindon Town FC to reward hard work and commitment by students. Players and officials will be visiting the school once a term to make presentations to students who have been identified as making significant progress as a result of steady and determined efforts. Nominated students will receive prizes donated by the club such as match tickets, signed footballs and sports gear. There will be specially commissioned certificates for the runners up.

Abbey Meads church, Christ the Servant, celebrates its first birthday with a special service and a move to Abbey Meads community centre in Elstree Way on Sunday 5 October, 1030am. The congregation will process from Church House, 1 Hayward Close to the community centre at lOam. All residents are welcome to attend. Refreshments will be served after the service.

Hard of Hearing? The Swindon Hard of Hearing club meets on the first Friday of the month, 2pm, in the Community Suite at the Link Centre. For more information, call 445534.

THE REGISTER The following pre-schools have places available: Woodlands Kindergarten in Roughmoor is a small, friendly group offering stimulating indoor and outdoor activities within national curriculum requirements. Contact Cheryl Brown on 875674 for information. Busy Fingers is a structured mother and toddler group that meets in the Haydon Centre. To register your name on the waiting list, call Sam on 705812. Abbey Meads Church is starting a group for parents and under 3s on Friday mornings at lOam at 1 Hayward Close, Abbey Meads. For more information, call Deaconess Maureen Spinks, tel. 706558. Jellytots Playgroup in Shaw Village Community Hut in Ramleaze Drive is an established local playgroup. It is open Monday to Friday with children attending half day sessions. For further information contact Tracy on 876397.

New for years 6 to 8 A new kind of youth club is launched at Shaw's Holy Trinity Church on 26 September. Rock Solid is aimed at children in years 6,7 and 8 to give them the chance to keep up friendships when they move from primary school to secondary school. "It will be fast, dynamic and fun," says organiser Audrey Hutchinson. "But most important, it will also give young people the chance to talk about what concerns them in a friendly setting. "There are still places for to be taken up; bring a friend." The first meeting will feature a food extravaganza and lots of record breaking attempts. Rock Solid will meet every Friday during term between 7pm and 830pm.

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on 01793 882277 Your home is at risk if you do not keep up repayments on a mortgage or other loans secured on it

Cobra in town Popular Gladiator Cobra will be in Swindon on 9 October to help an anti-drugs campaign. Cobra will be conducting martial arts sessions for 5 to 12 year olds at the Leigh Childs Academy in Old Town. Leigh has been active in fighting drugs and hopes the visit by the hunky Gladiator will raise awareness of drug abuse and introduce children and parents to the benefits of disciplined sport. All proceeds from the sessions will be donated to the Kick Out Drugs Campaign. Spaces are limited, so book early on 07000216101.

IS YOUR CHILDAGEI) BETWEE1N 5 -12? Then bring them along to train with Mike Willson a.k.a. COBRA from the Gladiators

Cost £9.99 Includes: • First class with Mike Willson • 2 weeks martial arts session • Personal photo session • Certificate of participation

BRADON FOREST SCHOOL The Peak, Purton, Swindon

Thursday 9 October 4pm, 5pm and 6pm Places are limited, so please book promptly

Tel: 01793 770570 Fax 01793 771063

OPEN EVENINGS We extend a warm welcome to Year 6 pupils and their parents to attend our Open Evenings (for September 1998 entry), on Wednesday 8 October & Thursday 9 October, 7pm in the School Hall

be given the opportunity to talk to staff and students, see the facilities we offer and hear about our exciting plans for the future.

You will

Allproceed5 will be donated to the Kick Drugs Out Campaign Leigh Childs Black-Belt Academy 17 - 21 High Street, Old Town, Swindon

Tel: 07000 216101

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The Link Magazine • October 1997

Savings club, fundraising and volunteers needed A Christmas Savings Club is running at the West Swindon Family & Community Project. It costs £1 to join and withdrawals can be made from the first week of December. Money can be deposited daily at 15 Gainsborough Way, Freshbrook, lOam to 11am. Phone 871301 for more details. Table top sale Toothill Community Centre Saturday 18 October. To book a table at £3.50, call 614492 weeday mornings Refreshments available.

Nearly New Sale National Childbirth Trust (Swindon Branch) Haydon Centre, Haydon Wick Saturday 11 October, 11am - 1230pm. Admission 50p For details on how to sell phone Ann Lewis on 814049 Jumble Sale Saturday 4 October, 10am The Haydon Centre Jumble, cake stall, bric-a-brac,etc In aid of Haydon Wick Bowling Club

Bring & buy/coffee morning in aid of The Research Trust for Metabolic Diseases in Children 17 October, 10am - 3pm 19 Bishopdale Close, Nine Elms. Tel: 876332 for more details

History info, wanted Rompers Toddler Group at Link Centre celebrates its tenth year in 1998, but the organisers want to know the exact month. If you attended the group in 1988, please contact Angie Evans on 870669.

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

PARTS REMOVED BY OUR OWN PERSONNEL

TEL: 01793 - 820000 UNIT S9 THORNHILL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE SOUTH MARSTON, SWINDON

3-C 3-C MOBILE MECHANIC WE COME TO YOU • Non-Starts • Servicing • Tuning • M.O.T Work • Breakdowns • Electrical Faults • Clutches Fittted • Welding

MOBILE WELDING

BEATEN ON PRICE WE WON'T BE! TRY US, YOU WILL GET THE BEST DEAL IN TOWN On lyres, our price includes valve, balance & VAT

a VEHICLE SERVICING

• Mobile Welding

. Vehicle servicing

. General repairs

• M.o.T. failures

• Competitive rates

073 L1 11

Tel: (0 1793) 530941 • Mobile: 0467 234

M Ll Motor Repairs & Servicing

PRE-M.O.T. For PETROL & DIESEL VEHICLES

No garage prices or waiting

HOME & WORK COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE

Please telephone 876211 ANYTIME

01 793 520016 Mobile: 0973 182267

DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS FOR ALL YOUR MOTORING NEEDS Brake pads & shoes from £6.95 Brake discs & drums from £8.29 Wheel cylinders from £6.49 Clutch kits from £20.95 Alternators/starters from £15.95 Batteries from £23.95 Oil (per gallon) from £2.99 Suspension & ignition parts, filters & plugs, spray paints/primers/tillers Number plates £5.95 Brake pipes made to pattern All prices md VAT

PDSA volunteers needed A new group has been set up in Swindon to support the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals. One of the main activities this year will be a five mile walk in Swindon on Sunday 5 October to support the PDSA's national walkathon. To find out more, call Alison on 870608

a IT'S AS SIMPLE AS YOUR ONE STOP 01 . B1" 1* RES GUIDE TO MOTOR Cannon's Yard, Station Road, Wootton Bassett (Next to St lvel) SERVICING TYRE, EXHAUST & REPAIRS & MOT CENTRE

WE HAVE IT ALL

MOT FAILURES & ACCIDENT DAMAGED CARS & COMMERCIALS BOUGHT FOR CASH

Market in the Mall Link Centre Saturday 4 October, 10am - 12

T/A The Silencer Centre Ltd. Gorse KM, Swindon Open 7 days a week (Sunday lOam - 1230pm)

Open 6 days a week. Free parking PHONE FREE 0500 789078

•I

NOSTALGIA DELLERS GARAGE RIPLEY ROAD, OLD TOWN, SWINDON

We don't LOOK for reasons to fail an MoT * We don't LOOK for repairs or Non-M0T faults * If your vehicle has been kept up to required standards and it's an M0T you want, then an M0T you'll get * We are ONLY M0T Specialists. If work is required, we give you the choice - NOT THE BILL for unexpected extras

MoTs only £20 with this advert

Call (01793) 522801 to book your appointment

MmOmTo Cars, Motorcycles, Class 7 ET 01793 428430 M More than just your local bus company Thamesdown

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Corporation Street, Swindon SN1 1 DS

Ce,e'_)ra- ;#n,g25 years wit! .1 e Swindon Society

SR7 .Antiques

'History starts yesterday...' is the motto of The Swindon Society. And in a Dealers in antiques. memorabilia & town like Swindon which has experienced such rapid change over the last collectables 160 years, history is made quickly. The physical features have been shaped and altered as it has grown in all directions and the population has boomed. Open 7 days per week

Bruce was a famous Swindon dog, who along with his owner Mr Beal, collected for charities in the early part of the century. A coin into the box strapped to his back guaranteed a bark. He raised over £500 during his life, a lot in those days, including money for Swindon's Victoria Hos pital and the Titanic disaster appeal.

The Swindon Society was formed in September 1972, following a series of Workers Educational Association lectures by the late Eric Arman. Over the last 25 years members of the Society have dedicated themselves to researching the town's social history and preserving images drawn from family albums, local collections and professional photographers. The volunteers are concerned that Swindon's history is not overwhelmed by rapid change and the rush towards the next millenium. As a magazine with a focus on the newer parts of the town, The

Victoria Centre, 138- 139 Victoria Rd, Old Town, Swindon Tel: 01793 536668

Link welcomes the opportunity to show off just a few of the Society's photographs over these three pages, and to congratulate its members for their effort during the last quarter of a century.

Party Box . The One Stop4 J,IJ

HOUSE CLEARANCE OR SINGLE ITEMS PURCHASED

Talbot g ho tograph y

Party Shop • Novelties & Gifts . Fancy Dress Accessories . Balloons & Balloon decoration service • • Helium gas kits A wide range for Weddings, Birthdays. Christenings and Parties 13 Apsley House Arcade High Street, Wootton Bassett Tel/fax: 01793 853976 Mobile: 0378 954903

Wedding Photography designed exclusively for you A professional, friendly and personal service Choice of wedding collections Telephone Tod Clark Cirencester

01285 - 860667

A perfect Christmas Gift

GILBIRTS

Swindon Album in Old Photographs

S WIN DON

by the Swindon Society

Established 1866 In 1904 Drove Road was a country lane through tree lined fields yet to be developed. A far cry from the busy route it is now.

Win a copy of Swindon Album in Old Photographs

This new collection which contains 450 photographs, with captions and anecdotes, shows Swindon as it used to be, together with its people at work and at play.

Evocative images to bring back memories to old Swindonians and to stimulate interest for newcomers to learn more about the town.

Published by Sutton Publishing Ltd. In main bookshops from 25 September at £12.99

131 years of quality, service and choice

Sutton Publishing have made 6 copies at £12.99 each available to Link readers. All you have to do is answer the question: what company occupies the old Swindon electrical works? Send your replies to The Link Magazine (SS Competition) 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ by 10 October

Free estimating, measuring and fitting service available

1 Newport, Old Town, Swindon Telephone (01793) 431992

The Swindon Society:

B k1VOIR P R(I) P E RT Y

MANAGEMENT

DO YOU WANT TO LET YOUR HOUSE? Free impartial advice on all aspects of residential letting.

Management of all repairs and maintenance to owners instructions.

Full specialised buildings, contents, rent and legal protection insurance services. A 'Buy to Let' Mortgage scheme.

Pictured right is the Gold Lion Bridge c.1908, before it was demolished ten years later. A sculpture of a watchful lion now marks the spot on Canal Walk, opposite BHS. The bridge was built in 1877 to replace a wooden swing bridge over the North Wilts Section of the Wilts and Berks Canal which ran through the town. The Great Western Railway Company bought the canal in the 1870s to put it out of business. By the beginning of the century the derelict waterway had deteriorated through lack of use and had became an eyesore. Several plans were put forward for Over the last few years, volunthe canal including a proposal in the stand. Due to the cost, this idea was early 1900s to create a water feature soon forgotten. Eventually the canal teers belonging to the Wilts and Berks Canal Amenity Group have been repromenade, complete with band- was filled in during the 1920s. storing the canal and have dreams of Rgnt Str,ct Cil nd 1'ro,'urr,,dc, Swn. eventually reconnecting large secA, k tions. What a different place Swindon would be if the waterway still existed. Another feature lost to the town is the tram system that connected the town centre with Old Town, Rodhourne and Gorse Hill. The picture below was taken on the opening day of the tram system, 22 September 1904, at the junction of Bridge Street and Fleet Street. Like canals, there are suggestions that another old form of transport reappears in Swindon with the building of a modern tram system.

Belvoir is an approved agency for HM Forces relocation and specilises with the needs of service personnel. With offices across the UK.

Phone or Fax: 01249 760670 E-mail bpmwilts@aol.com http://www.belvoirgroup.com

WE'RE BIGGER THAN YOU THINK Home Co-ordinates

Bedroom Showroom

COULD YOU DE A SOCIAL HISTORIAN?

nathan LA-Z-BOY YOUR OLD SUITE & BED DISPOSED OF

Parker Knoll

SIbefIafld

Wdh,,,

STRONG BOW

OCCASIONAL FURNITURE FIRESIDE CHAIRS

Spillers Furnishings & Bed Centre ESTABLISHED 1843

â€˘ SERVING SWINDON FOR OVER 150 YEARS

132 Victoria Road, Old Town, Swindon Tel: (01793) 522329/541146 The family business that really cares

The members of The Swindon Society are all volunteers - ordinary men and women who have shown an interest in the town. Bearing in mind their motto: 'History starts yesterday,' it is happening all the time and much is being lost. The Link has long been concerned that West Swindon's history has not been systematically recorded since the first people moved in 21 years ago. Likewise the Northern Expansion is shooting up and there is historical information which should be recorded as the development takes place. It's only in the future that people will look back. All it takes is a few people to commit themselves to investigating and setting up a recording system. For example, The Link has several thousand photographs we would love to put into somebody's caring hands to archive and display from time to time. The Swindon Society meets for discussions, presentations and slide shows on the second Wednesday of the month - September to June at the Broad Green Centre, Swindon. To find out more, contact Jean Allen, secretary, on 528418. Our thanks to David Bedford and Sheila Povey for access to their photographic collections.

25 years yo, ing

BLAYLOCKS SWINDON'S FAMILY SHOE SHOP Est. 1920 STOCKIST OF ALL LEADING BRANDS

Congratulations to the Swindon Society on their 25th Anniversary Before the railway came, Swindon was a rural market town on top of the hill surrounded by fields and quiet farms. One was Lower Eastcott Farm built in the 16th Century. It was demolished to make way for an electricity generating station which opened in 1903. The chimney and tank have disappeared but the building can still he seen on the corner of Manchester Road and Corporation Street, now the administration offices for Thamesdown Transport.

This tram, heavily decorated for the Victoria Hospital Carnival Week was pictured in 1922. For aweek, passengers donated their fares to the hospital collection. Below: American soldiers march through Old Town in 1944.

Bath Road Corner Old Town Tel: 534271

HYSLOP & LEIGHTON OPTICIANS EST. 1906

Comprehensive quality eyecare Eye examination

Time slips away amongst the 1000s of books on our shelves An old fashioned bookshop for customers who like things the way they used to be with a standard of service for today Victoria Bookshop, 30 Wood Street, Old Town, Swindon

Tel: (01793) 527364

Spectacle dispensing Contact lenses

33 Wood Street, Swindon Tel: (01793) 522586 (01793) 522936 Fax: (01793) 421699

-")TAXI L H U I H

T0 UP 4 PPITITI 4 IiF' WIT TAI WNTLI

TIMI I H T.1.1 .1J1 Of MOON Make tracks to the Locomotion, a Victorian Tea Room with traditional service and the ambience of yesteryear. Located within the Milton Road Health Hydro it is easily accessed from the town centre

Open all day from 6th October 1997

SwrnDOn

BOROUGH COUflCU.

Snack on our 'Waiting Room Fillers'

or go full steam ahead on 'The City Line'

dishes range from homemade pate with toast or crusty bread to corn.ted breast of chicken stuffed with Asparagus and herbed soft cheese wrapped in bacon. 'Make The Connection'

with afternoon tea or quench your thirst with our range of bottled beer. Luncheon & Tea Rooms Health Hydro Milton Road, Town Centre Swindon SN1 5JA Telephone: (01793) 465648

There is something for everyone, all passengers welcome!

10% discount Customer Loyalty Cardr Avczilable from 1.10.97

The Link Magazine • October 1997 Vacancies for Sessional Play Workers at Westlea After School Club

Primary, Secondary & Adult TUITION

Hours by arrangement. Applicants should have experience of working with children aged 5 - 12 years in a play or sports capacity. For details call Cherry Hobbs on 872380 or 0468 162167 between 3pm & 6pm weekdays. Closing date 15 October

ALL SUBJECTS ALL AGES PREMIER TUTORS 01793-814354 Best Value - Best Results

ELECTRICIMI PLUMBER Established 1982

From a small fuse to a complete house rewire

Established Window Cleaner 4.

From a dripping tap to full bathroom installation Fully insured • Institute of Plumbing registered • JIB. Electrical

SHOWER SPECIALISTS

A & M SERVICES

Tel: 8262627.

Tel: Swindon 874240 • 24 hour answering 11 Chevalier close, Middleleaze, Swindon

For Sale Girls Raleigh Pretty Extreme suit 5-9 yrs, 5 gears, exc cond, £50. Tel: 723742 (Hayden Wick) BMX SM racing bike suit 8-10 yr old, good cond, £20. Girls racing cycle, 20" frame, vgc, £35. Ladies racing cycle 22" frame, vgc, £50. Weider exercise bench with 50kg barbell/dumbell set, vgc, £35. Tel: 873366 Chicco pram/pushchair, green, vgc, with raincover & tray, £75. Beechwood hifi cabinet as new £20. Chicco rocker seat, £10. Tel: 726975 after 6pm. Single mattress, multi colours, exc condition £15. Pushchair come pram, face anyway, hood, swivel wheels, clean, £40. Tel: 875665 Chicco double, 5 position buggy & raincover, £80. 3-in-1 highchair, £15. Cot £5. Bouncy chair £5. Mothercare bucket car seat, £5. Tel: 875739 1993 Mothercare overlander pram/ pushchair, md cosytoes, rainguard & sun canopy, £120 ono. Britax Rock-aBye 0-9 months, car seat with head hugger, as new, £20. Avent microwave sterilizer boxed as new, £10. Tel: 724148 Cot, drop side, £30. Car seat, £25. Silver Cross pushchair, cosytoes, £60. Tel: 875665 (Middleleaze) Baby boys outfits, 0-6 months. Mothercare ABC rocker-chair, £25. Bathstand £5. Sesame Street baby gym, £5. Avent bottle warmer, £10. All exc cond. Tel: 874167 (Westlea) Cot, white drop side with mattress, £45. Mamas & Papas pushchair, £48. Car seat £25, large box girls clothes, 6 yrs, £15. Tel: 875665 Boots jungle gym in carrycase, vgc, £15. Baby walker, £20. Hardly used V-Tech walker, vgc, £20. Baby bath, £4. Car seat, £10. Tel: 874316 Childs keyboard, £5. Child's typewriter, £5. Care Bears bean bag, £3. Child's cycle helmet, £4. Tel: 771900 Karate suit, size 180, almost new, £15. Tel: 873131 Umbro boys football boots, size 61 vgc, £5. Black wellies, size 5, vgc, £2. Mr Frosty crushed ice and lolly maker, £5. Tel: 771892 Football boots, sizes, 6, 7, 8, 9, £5 a pair. Tel: 487755 (Freshbrook)

For Sale Techno snooker cue, almost new, in hard case, £27. Tel: 695040 Ladies (semi-dry) wet suit & body jacket, max thickness 14mm, suitable for cold water /deep dives, vgc, £100. Tel: 872531 (Grange Park) Exercise bike with speedometer, distance meter and timer, good cond, £15. Rowing machine, hydrolic roller, padded seat & footplates, £15. Tel: 876056 Roller balls, youth size 5/6 original price, £65 will sell for £30, hardly worn, in good cond. Tel: 887394 Riding boots, black size 4.5, £15. Tel: 873685 Wedding dress, white satin & pearls, long tapered sleeves & train, worth viewing, to fit lady 5'2" tall, size 10/12, £140. Tel: 872531 Fishtail design wedding dress, white, size 10/12, £50 ono. Moses basket £5. Bebe Comfort denim pram with carrycot & bedding £30. Tel: 870851 Ladies black cropped jacket, (River Island) size 12/14 excellent condition, £10. Tel: 882644 (Shaw) Remington steam heated roller set, good cond, £18. Clairol foot spa, £18. Cane swivel chair with floral print cushion, £25 ono. Tel: 874764 Adjustable slide projector stand, £10 ono. Tel: 536869 (Haydon Wick) Black ash desk, 4'x2', £20. Trombone, £120. Weider weight bench, £40. Tel: 876124 (Shaw) Teak table 60"x33" when open, closed 33"x13", £25 ono. Pine wood table, 42"x 26.5", £20 ono. Tel: 524194 Beko fridge with freezer compartment, £85 ono. Large terracotta 3 seater loose cover sofa, scotchguarded, as new, £550 ono. Tel: 0370 928908 Green patio table in good cond, 4'x3'. Tel: 882072 (Freshbrook) Leaf green velvet dralon lined curtains, 72"x54" (58" drop), & 2 pairs of 92"x54" (62" drop) vgc 2 yrs old, cost £420 new, offers. Tel: 771892 Good quality gold/gree/black/oatmeal patterned carpet with underlay, 1 2'xl 1' approx, £15 ono. Tel: 771892 Fire surround in quality teak veneer with 2 leaded light display units and 2 drawers 4'6" I & 2'6" h, new cond, bargain at £100. Tel: 613000

For Sale 3 piece suite recently cleaned, pale green, comfortable, 3 seater settee, 2 armchairs & footstool, exc cond, £350 ono. Tel: 877717 (Peatmoor) 6 piece bedroom suite, white wood: double twin wardrobe, 2 bedside cabinets, 6 drawer chest, 4 drawer chest, triple dressing table mirror, 6 ft bed with twin mattresses & slats, £200, buyer collects. Tel: 873602 Elite WC, light blue cistern, £5. Grandmother 8 day clock, E95. GEC 2O"colour TV, £30. Hedge cutter, £25. Blow lamp, £2. Scythe, £5. Tel: 872861 Cooker Halogen, 7 yrs old, exc cond, £130 ono. Dishwasher Ariston, 2 yrs old, exc cond, £150. Tel: 882521, after 6pm Carpet to fit hall, stairs, landing & small room, vgc, £40, exc quality. Tel: 876252 (Shaw Ridge) Amstrad PC1640 computer with Panasonic KXP 1082 dot matrix printer, old but good cond, £75. Two bedside tables with lights, modern design, £25 the pair. Tel: 877917 Saga Mega Drive II, with 2 joy sticks, md five games, boxed, in exc cond. £75 ovno. Tel: 873602 Wrought iron small garden gate, £20 ono. Steel fire hood for open chimney, offers. Tel: 771892 Pair of black wrought iron gates, 5'x3', exc cond, £45 ono. 100 roof tiles, £20 ono. Tel: 616705

"Sprechen Sie Deutsch? The Swindon Anglo- German Society meets on the first Friday of the month at 730pm at the White Hart Pub, in Stratton. If you have a knowledge of German, as mother tongue or foreign language, please come along Phone 524726 for details

eAOI"W F

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Play the Piano e a r n to Sing

Phone Swindon 695235 for further information

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For Sale Two copper pipe springs, £2. GEC colour TV, £25. Tel: 872861 30 paving slabs, heavy duty, grey, approx 2.5'x2', 2" thick, £1 each. Double bed & pine back, £25. Tel: 877515 Secondary glazing & double glazed windows, variety of size, being replaced end of Oct, offers. Tel: 872282 Car stereo radio cassette player, Sharp, with 4" 2 way Pioneer speakers, as new, £25 (will split) Tel: 870851 Tyre & wheel, Ford Sierra, new, never used, Pirelli P4 165x13, £35. Tyre & wheel, Ford Sierra 185x65, Firestone, used. Tel: 726782 Roof rack to fit Mazda 323F or similar sporty car, lockable, exc cond, £50. Calor gas fire with container, £20. Pram £70 ono. Tel: 01249 891270 Free baby stick insects, ideal pets for home or school, little maintenance & no cost to keep, md container and instructions. Tel: 771892

Wanted Guineapig run & house, good condition . Tel: 882409 after 6pm Ski equipment: Salopettes, medium adult size for 15 yr old boy, 5' 9" tall, also ski jacket, meium ladies size for 16 yr old girl. Tel: 872282 (Freshbrook) LINEAGE: 50p per word. Use form below. Cheques to West Swindon Publications

Free Private For Sale & Wanted ads. Return this form to The Link, 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon by 14th 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) Tick if you do not want your ad to appear on the swindonlink internet web site

The Link Magazine • October 1997 39

Careforce worker joins All Saints

Ebby holding two week old Eleanor Grace Jones at the weekly Wednesday pram service at All Saints Church in mid-September

The congregation at All Saints Church, Lydiard Millicent extended a warm welcome to Ebby Aluhoyio from Kenya in September. A recent graduate from Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Ebby will be helping to develop youth and children's work in the village and also visiting the other four churches in the West Swindon Ecumenical Project. "1 was told in June that I would come to Swindon where the people are very friendly," said Ebby.

"Everybody is very welcoming." She eventually hopes to work as a missionary outside Kenya, so her 12 month experience in Britain will help her grapple with many crosscultural issues. Ebby's placement has been arranged by Careforce which organises mission placements for 18 to 26 year olds.

Vicar crosses town to new challenge West Swindon's longest serving full-time minister, Revd Rob Buries was given a warm send-off over a weekend of parties and services. Rob has been called to become the team rector in the Parks and Walcot area of Swindon after six years as vicar of St Mary's in Lydiard Park. Over 100 members of Toothill, Westlea, All Saints and St Mary's churches attended a party for Rob and Tina Burles and their children Lydia and Nathan on 12 Septem ber. He conducted his last service on Sunday 13 September. "I have found my time in West Swindon very enjoyable. It's been fulfilling to be part of a growing church and to help so many people turn to God," said Rob. "Parks and Walcot is a very different area; I am sure God has exciting plans for me and the church there in the future." The Bishop of Bristol, the Rt Revd Barry Rogerson conducted Rob's inauguration service on 23 September attended by members from Rob's new parish and St Mary's. Revd. Rob Buries

year Help the Aged promotes a special day when people nationwide give thanks to God for the important role older people play in society. Toothill Church is holding a special service at 10.45am on Sunday 19 October to celebrate older people and all readers are welcome to attend. If you need a lift, call the Parish Office on 874221 between lOam and 12 noon on Monday, Wednesday or Thursday.

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road

.i -

-rs

Will give YOU a warm welcome Sunday lOam Family Praise with children's Covenanter Movement & creche 6.30pm Evening Worship and Communion For details of mid-week meetings, house groups and other activities, telephone the Church Office, Tel: 873050

SWINDON FAMILY CHURCH Live with integrity Love wholeheartedly Trust God in all things SUNDAYS AT THE LINK CENTRE (Community Suite)

IO.3Oam All ages of children & teens cared for Information: Call Brian at the Church Office: 849731

in association with NEW FRONTIERS INTERNATIONAL

Thanks for older people: Each

Help and encouragement: Being a parent is never easy, but Freshbrook Church will be helping you get a clearer idea of what is involved with a showing of The Sixty Minute Parent. Based on a best-selling book by lawyer and teacher Rob Parsons, the film covers building strong relationship, giving love without strings, setting boundaries and learning to let go. All are welcome to attend on Wednesday 22 October, 730pm to 9.45pm. Tickets £3.50 on the door. For those who have died: St Mary's, Lydiard Tregoze, in Lydiard Park is holding a Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance for those who have died on Sunday 26 October at 6.30pm. Families who have suffered a bereavement are invited to come and remember and give thanks for those they have lost.

OCAL CHURCHES All Saints' Lydiard Millicent - 10:30am Revd Peter Knight 772417 (for the Village and Roughmoor) Holy Trinity Shaw -1 0:30am RevdAndrew Hetherington 770568 (the Church is at Shaw Village Centre) St Mary's Lydiard Tregoze - 9:00am, 10:30am Until Ann McKenzie arrives, please contact Andrew Hethrington

"Make mention of Me on My earth, that in My heaven I may remember thee" The Baha'i faith is the second most widespread religion in the world and is working towards universal peace and harmony For more information, contact the Swindon Baha'is Community on 01793 421615 or 01793 872853

PARTS>K MART Spare parts for all home appliances by Mail Order

Toothill Church - 10:45am Revd Jan Partridge 534992 (also Free Church minister for the parish)

Why pay more when you can fit it yourself?

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

Telephone: (0 1793) 537800

The Parish of West Swindon and the I..ydiards

Spare parts for all popular makes

Ba' tist • Church of En land • Methodist 9 United Reformed Church

Unit 8, Pembroke Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon

Westburp If you're looking for a brand new 2, 3, ,4 or 5 bedroom home, pop into one of the four Westbury developments in the

wo derfusurroundings of Wiltshire. With prices ranging from £56,995 up to £185,000 you're assured of Westbury quality and value every time. Don't forget to ask about our special incentive packages too, such as help for first time buyers, or full value part exchange or our market leading 5 year fixed rate mortgage*! Call in to our sales centres which are open daily 11am to 6pm - and experience Westbury style today.

WESTBURY AT ABBEYMEADS, SWINDON 1 j) 2, 3 AND 4 BEDROOM HOMES FROM £56,995 TO £130,000 TEL (0 1793) 700788 ,.

LINDEN PARK, COMMON PLATT, NR SWINDON 4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM £107,950 TEL (01793) 882748

' ST. MICHAELS COURT, LYNEHAM 3 BEDROOM HOMES FROM £73,500 TO £1 10,000 TEL (01249) 890324

THE BEECHES, CEPEN PARK CHIPPENHAM 4 AND 5 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES FROM 2115,500 TEL (01249) 446158

*Only 1 incentive per sale on selected plots, subject to status, terms and conditions. A typical Westbury street scene, photograph not necessaarily representative of exterior designs available.

CHIPPEN HAM