Issuu

No. 138 • September 1993 • Circulation 11,500

TOOTHILL : CHINESE KITCHEN

Fish & Chips and Chinese Food Takeaway

HOME DELIVERY

oves Pwindon • 5pm - p

west swindon's magazine

(Delivery charge from £1)

Toothill Village Centre

and the swindon wide what's on guide

Premier league calling A young footballer is set to sign for Premier League Everton football club when school starts again in September. Jonathan Haines, fromCastleton Road, Middleleaze, attended trials at Everton duringJuly and August and has been asked to sign associated schoolboy forms once he has permission from his school. The six foot fourteen year old goalkeeper, who attends Wootton Bassett School, was spotted by one time Everton player Tommy Wheeldon from Shaw at the Refuge Assurance Soccer Sixes competition in Swindon a year ago. Tommy, now manager for Refuge Assurance and the club's south westchief scout, followed Jonathan last season and took him up to Merseyside with fifteen other players in July. He was invited back in Everton scout Tommy Wheeldon, August to train with Everton goalleft, with his find Jonathan Haines keeper Neville Southall and played a full game for the club's under 14 with Everton training, playing and developing his abilities which, if team. Everton youth development ofall goes well, will result in a profesficer Ray Hall reckons Jonathan is sional career one day. The club has the 'best goalkeeper in the country given him diet sheet and a fitness for his age.' This assessment could training programme to follow. be recognised on 23 August, after Tommy Wheeldon says there's The Link goes to press, when he has along way to go forJonathan. "He's an England under 15 trial. got a level head and knows he'll Jonathan said his parents were have to keep up his school studies. delighted with his success. But I'm pleased his talent is being "They've backed me all the way recognised." and have taken me everywhere." Refuge sponsors under us team. He will be spending his holidays Page 15.

Ricky remembered Th amesdown Mayor Doreen Dart visited West Swindon on 12 August to dedicate a road in memory of the late councillor Ricky Midwinter who died from cancer in February 1992. At a ribbon cutting ceremony outside Dr Kandy Kandiah's new surgery in Sparcells, she said that Ricky worked hard for his community and it was fitting that he be remembered in a permanent way. Right: Thamesdown Mayor Doreen Dart unveils the new street sign in Sparcells with Mae Midwinter and her children Phillipa and Darren

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The Link Magazine. September 1993

Crystal Maze comes to Greendown A West Swindon youth club created a nightmare during August which

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lots of others enjoyed. The club, which meets on several evenings a week at Greendown School, turned the Len Hobbs Community Suite into a Crystal Maze lookalike environment and challenged other Swindon youth clubs to workout the clues and the physical tasks of getting a team round the course. Called Nightmare on Greendown, the project was a year in the planningand development byyouth club members, with most effort during the last four months. Enthusiastic youngsters made all the props and thought out all the problems to be solved. "It was our

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first big project and it helped us work together as a team," said Scott Walters. Andy Blackford said the project had brought in new members and the club is hoping to take the maze to other youth clubs. Becky Mulgarin said the Nightmare showed young people doing something positive. "You always hear the complaints and criticism, but people ignore the good things. This has been great." Greendown youth worker Richard Williams said the project was a very positive activity and had helped the club come together.

Some of the Nightmare on Greendown team, from front left, Richard Williams, Debbie Spencer, Becky Mulgarin, Andy Blackford, Chris Barber, Robbie Dee, Scott Walters, Craig Brett, Matthew Davies, Clayton Clarke a

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4e1thk M%t Published by West Swindon Publications 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8PQ Tel: (0793) 872282

Editorial: Roger Ogle, Publisher/Editor Advertising Sales: Tel: (0793) 872282 d Apple Macintosh design, layout and lasersettirig Printed by Wiltshire, Bristol Published monthly. Copy date for October edition: 20 September

Call Brian Smith on Swindon 824419 or Roy Wellington on Faringdon (0367) 242080 Ermin Windows, 87a Ermin St., Stratton St. Margaret, Swindon

"The Link was first published in December 1978 exclusively for the West Swindon community. It is completely independent of Link Centre and, in fact, won a competition to name the leisure centre in 1984. "The magazine is entirely self-supporting from advertising."

Contents 4 Toothill 5 Freshbrook & Grange Park 6 Westlea 8 Shaw 9 At Your Library 10 On the road 11-13 Swindon Wide What's On 14 Recreation 15-17 Keep Fit Feature 21 Letters to The Link 23 Local Lives

The October edition will be published on 1 October. The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Copying of advertisements for business use, in dud ing publication is forbidden unless advertisers or publishers have sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

CALL 872282 TO ADVERTISE IN THE LINK - IT'S WHAT PEOPLE READ

The Link Magazine September 1993 3

International evening supports families An evening of multi-ethnic entertainment and delicious food from many different countries in June will sponsor a Christmas party for children suffering from cancer.

THE HOLLIES Bed & Breakfast in the country Evening meal by arrangement Special rates for those visiting relations

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Laurie Austin receives a cheque from members of the International Family Group organisers, from left back row, Ladan Davarpanah, Mary Lou Carroll, Dorothy Clarke, Shida Rahmani. Front, Melba Sheffield, Shahia Davarpanah Over 300 people attended the evening on 26 June at the Link Centre, arranged by the International Family Group, which raised £425 for local children's charity CALM, Cancer and Leukemia Movement. At a presentation on 9 August, Swindon CALM fundraising chairman Laurie Austin expressed appreciation for the donation. "The support of local groups is essential

Take to the Skies

to the continuing work of CALM. I'm glad to have found a sponsor for the Christmas party." He said about 50 children suffering from cancer or leukemia as well as their brothers and sisters will enjoy themselves at the party in the PMH social club. CALM supports families who have a child suffering cancer or leukemia. It assists families financially,provides the parents restroom and childrens play area plus special istequipmentatPMH, and n.ms two convalescent homes and holiday caravans. To find out more, contact Laurie Austin on 534004.

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Celebrating Grans. Grandparents Day on Saturday 25 September will be celebrated in Swindon with a Tea Dance in the Community Suite at the Link Centre, between 2.30pm and 5.30pm. Organised by Age Concern Thamesdown, there will be dancing to records, refreshment and a raffle. 1993 is a year of forging links between generations and Age Concern is hoping to see lots of dancers of all ages present. Tickets cost £1 each from Age Concern at 14 Milton Road, Swindon, or £1.25 on the door.

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Tea and dance served again The Link Centre 45+ Club starts its autumn/winter Sunday tea dances on 12 September in the Link Centre Community Suite, 3.30pm to 6pm. The dances will be held on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Newcomers very welcome. Just turn up and ask for Norman Bowles, social secretary.

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Teenagers featured on HTV Six months work by local teenagers learning street dance and creative graffiti painting was recognised recently when their efforts were featured in the Andy Sheppard Wrap on Monday 23 August The project called 'Stone Youth H' at the Toothill Farm youth centre gives young people the chance to learn hip-hop street dancing, graffiti art and rap. About twenty 14 to 16 year olds have been taking part under the guidance of project workers Banksie, Dale and Gee. Youth workerJo Marchment said that none of the group had done any dance until six months ago. Now they're good enough to take their dance routines round night clubs in

Swindon. She added that about the half the group is female which is encouraging. Street dance is generally dominated by boys and it has taken some time to involve girls. The group is working on a programme which can be taken to other youth clubs and groups around Swindon. "The message is that anybody can dance," said project worker Dale. "Anybody can express themselves this way."

Hip hop street dance TV stars at Toothill Youth Club

Freshbrook Village Centre Tel: 873217

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THE WEEK DAY LUNCH TIME DEAL

Table Top Sale 18 September, 2pm - 4pm Toothill Community Centre Tables £4 Admission 20p Enquiries tel: 614492 or 495644

Toothill Church presents the Thamesdown Ladies Choir in aid of the Church Hall Fund Sunday 2 October, 7.30pm Admission £2 inc. refreshments

Monday to Friday 11.1 5am - 3pm Pukka Pie and Chips Wa1-1-.5S Now £1.40 Jumbo Sausage & Chips WasL-1-33 Now £1.10 Chicken Nuggets & Chips Was-f2-03- Now £1 .80 Plus Tomato Sauce Portion Choose us FIRST for the Best Quality Take Home Food Available

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Tootleabrook WI June Bradley writes

As it rained on the day we had planned our summer outing, plan two came into action. We all assembled at the home of our President and held a party during which we had a darts match. This was not played according to 'Queensbusy' rules, but we all had a hilarious evening. At our July meeting Sarah Finch Crisp gave a fascinating talk with slides on Lydiard House and the St John family. This prompted several

of us to re-visit the house and take more noticeof the manythings we'd missed previously. In August Mrs J Harrison gave a talk with slides on 'Nature Conservation in Wiltshire'. Newcomers are always very welcome to join us. We meet in the CommunityRoominToothillSchool at 730pm on the third Wednesday of each month. If you are interested call June Bradley on 495520

Bank to be replaced A resident of Toothifi's Salzgitter Court elderly person group dwelling has complained that the bottle bank once situated at the Village Centre has disappeared, although it was listed in July's WEST, The Link magazine's guide to WestSwindon. The bottle bank has been missed by elderly people who can't get to

the nearest recycling point at Asda. Vandals set the bottle bank on fire about six months ago and a new one should have been installed by now. Thamasdown Council's Recycling Officer Anne Bilhingham is getting in touch with Freeths, who operate bottle banks, to ask for new containers to be put in place.

FRESHBROOK & GRANGE PARK

Vandalism threatens Village Centre businesses Mindless damage to business premises at Freshbrook Village Centre is threatening their future. Smashed windows and fires during the summer months, along with unruly behaviour and foul language, is turning the Centre into an undesirable place. Dentist Brendan Ball has had paving slabs lobbed through armoured glass windows at his village centre surgery. Since June eight windows have been smashed and a door has been kicked in. "I have had more damage to my premises in eight weeks than I have had in the seventeen years I've been in Swindon, including the eight years I've been in Freshbrook," said Mr Ball. "This summer has been very costly. All the businesses around here are being effected by the vandalism and it must call into question their viability. "It is a great shame that a community that has so much going for it is being damaged by an unruly and undesirable element." Next door, Dr Reddy's surgery was threatened by a fire deliberately started in an extension whilst it was being built. FreshbrookpharmarcistShushma Patel had to wait over a year to get planning permission to put up shutters covering the pharmacy front window after it had been smashed several times. She left its shattered remains in place, held together by tape, for over 12 months. She was given permission to put up a full shutter over her front door but only a grill over the adjacent window, leaving it vulnerable to damage again, even though the takeaway a few yards away round the corner has a full shutter over its frontage. Mrs Patel, who has had to reinforce the pharmacy back door with steel after an attempted break-in, says the cost of repairs could be too much for businesses to bear.

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Cut 'n Dry hair salon owner Sue Collins says the damage to shop units which front onto the Village Centre car park is much less. "But we do get a lot of noise and abusive language upsetting customers during evening opening hours and the holidays." There are rumours that the car park is used as a trading point for drugs with some people becoming c( 41 uncontrollable and aggressive un- 4J I der the influence. 4 Dillons convenience store assistant manager Neil Hutchinson said Landscape Gardener his staff kept a close eye on who in West Swindon ' buys alcohol. "The evening super20 years experience. visor can spot under under age young people buying intoxicants. Turfing, Paving, We don't accept ID proof if we're Fencing, Pergolas, not satisfied with the age of a customer. But we can't stop people Planting New buying alcohol and passing it onto Gardens, Rockery under age drinkers outside." Mr Ball has written to Swindon Construction, MJ' Simon Coombs, been in touch Crazy Paving etc. with the police many times and has It en sent recommendations for reducing damage by the Crime Prevention Officer. These include higher levels of lighting around shops and in the car park, security cameras and removing seats which allow people to congregate. Local councillor Sue Bates has been pressing for closed circuit TV cameras to be mounted at thecentre. Police hit squads, which tour the town's trouble spots, visited Freshbrook Village Centre on a number of LOCAL .UK • EUROPEAN occasions during late July and AuREMOVALS gust. A numberof arrests have been made and damage has slightly reSTORAGE duced according to Brendan Ball.

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Bingo Every Sunday night. Doors open 7pm Freshbrook Community Centre 20p admission, refreshments For more information, phone 872450

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Saturday 11 September, 2pm Freshbrook Community Centre 20p admission (children free) In aid of GRW Majorettes

Donations welcome - phone

Saturday 2 October, 2pm Freshbrook Community Centre 20p admission (children free) In aid of the Freshbrook Village Group

872450 or 870996

Donations welcome - phone 872450 or 871017

Indoor Boot Markets 9am - 12 noon Every Sunday morning from 10 October Freshbrook Community Centre Pitches £5 each • Phone 871017 or 872450 Refreshments on sale

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WESTLEA

Church welcomes new minister Helen Lawrence reports As reported in last month's Link 'Itwas different! It was marvellous!' people said as we munched our cel- magazine, Peter and Ruth Walker ebratory goodies after licensing have come as Team Vicar and curate Westlea church's first full-time min- to be based in Westlea and Toothifi. For Westlea church, infamous for isters. informality, the solemn anglican ceremony was different! For many of the visitors, being 'at church' in a gaily decorated school hail was decidedly different! But it was great - you should have heard the singing and the laughing and the school bell signalling the beginning of a new ministry and the start of a new phase in Westlea church's history. This was the first of several welcomes as the new ministry team comes together in West Swindon. For the people of the local church there is great excitement at the prospect and a great thankfulness to God for his faithfulness to us.

TIM CROUTER

BRASS INSTRUMENTAL TEACHER AND TUBA SOLOIST

Play for better schooling Children at Westlea School will be returning to school in September with a major piece of outdoor play equipment awaiting them. Unveiled on the last day of the summer term, a large off-ground structure which will stretch the imagination and provide stimulation at play time. Designed by Matthew Hawkins ofThamesdown Council's Community Forest team, the structure was built by volunteer parents, staff and members of Westlea After School Club on several working weekends

during May and June. Headteacher Neil Griffiths said the school wanted to extend the range of play facilities on the site. It also had to be environmentally acceptable. The wooden structure can be used in different ways by children and is also accessible to those in wheelchairs. Mr Griffiths paid particular tribute to local builderWaily Casey and his son Richard for their efforts and thanked BT, Jewsons builders merchants and Chelmix Concrete for their valuable donations.

Below: Matthew Hawkins from the Community Forest team about to cut the tape to open the new play facility with, amongst a crowd of children,Martin Britchford from BT, left, and Terry Carter of the Westlea After School Club

Telephone: (0793) 692740

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Year of success for local music school Paul and Frances Issitt of the Westlea Music School are pleased to announce the following Associated Board Examination results for the past year December 1992 Delia Aspell, Flute Grade 5, Pass. Clare Austin, Clarinet Grade 2, Merit. Helen Cooper, Clarinet Grade 3, Merit. Helen Davies, Flute Grade 1, Merit. Anneke Day, Flute Grade 1, Pass. Jenny Hambling, Clarinet Grade 4, Pass. Victoria Jones, Piano Grade2, Pass. Krishan Kandiah, Piano Grade 4, Pass. Claire Miles, Clarinet Grade 3, Merit. Sarah Minett, Piano Grade 2, Pass. Georgina Peters, Flute Grade 4, Pass. Kate Slawinski, Clarinet Grade 2, Merit. Fiona Thompson, Flute Grade 5 Merit. Wing Sum To, Piano Grade 1, Distinction. March 1993 Katherine Barber, Flute Grade 2, Pass. Martin Bird, Clarinet Grade 3, Distinction. Claire Buckingham, Flute Grade 3, Pass. Loiiisp Cronkrite, Theory Grade 3, Pass. Katherine Davies, Clarinet Grade I, Pass. Christina Edwards, Theory Grade 3, Pass. Sarah Hall, Clarinet Grade 7, Pass. Charlotte Jubb, Flute Grade 1,Merit. Rhianne Kandiah, Flute Grade 2, Pass. Georgina Purdue, Flute Grade 5, Pass. Matthew Roberts, Clarinet Grade 1, Pass. Joanna Shirley, Clarinet Grade 4, Merit. Kim Shuttleworth, Clarinet Grade 1, Distinction. Karen Trevascus, Theory Grade 3, Pass. Rachel Wood, Theory Grade 5, Pass. Catherine Wright, Flute Gradel, Pass. July 1993 Delia Aspell, Theory Grade 5, Pass. Shelley Bird, Flute Grade 2, Pass. Anneke Day, Flute Grade 2, Pass. Helen Davies, Flute Grade 2, Pass. Christina Edwards, Clarinet Grade 5, Merit. Katherine Hudson, Clarinet Grade 3, Pass. Claire Jeans, Piano Grade 4, Pass. Rhianne Kandiah, Piano Grade 2, Pass. Timothy Martin, Clarinet Grade 1, Merit. Helen Memweather, Clarinet Grade 2, Pass. Zuleika Mullins, Flute Grade 5, Pass. Gavin Pickett, Clarinet Grade 1, Pass. Caroline Pike, Clarinet Grade 3, Pass. Niyaz Rhamani, Piano Grade 3, Pass. Kate Slawinska, Clarinet Grade 3, Merit. Lorraine Sanchez, Piano Grade 3, Pass. Wing Sum To, Piano Grade 3, Distinction. Lorna Templemann, Clarinet Grade 2, Pass. Anne Woodward, Clarinet Grade 1, Merit. Rachel Wood, Flute Grade 5, Distinction. Rachel Wells, Piano Grade 2, Pass. Frances Weeks, Clarinet Grade I, Merit. 2 candidates were unsuccessful. The Westlea Music School can be contacted on 873577.

SHAW

SHAW Saturday 4 September Shaw Village Centre Opened by Queen Vrntoria at 2pm Childrens Rides1 Childrens Victonan Fancy Dress Tug o War, Pony & Carriage Rides, Ma)orettes, Community group stalls Car Boot Sale, Rdrehxrients Organised by Shaw. Residents Assoesation Childxerts Yctoriau Fenoy Dress & Car ot

yforms 0011 88619&

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///,\\\k BOUNCY CASTLES

Shaw WI Kay Twyman reports

Mr Taylor from the Trading Standards Office, gave us a very interesting talk on consumer protection at our July meeting. We discovered facts and figures, we took a test and amazed Mr Taylor with our knowledge! We're all going round the shops checking on 'use by' dates. We'll have a cake stall at the Shaw Fun Day on 4 September, please come and say hello! Our cakes will be worth buying too. Our next meeting is on 20 September, 7.30pm at the Sunshine Room, Westlea School. We shall be hearing Rosemary Jamieson talkand demonstrate on crafts ofmanykinds. She is excellent, please come along

and enjoy the evening with us. For further information, please call Kay Twyman on 871614.

Young players wanted Shaw football club for under lOs and under 11 s is looking for players to train and play in the Mid-Wilts Minors and Youth League for the coming season. Training takes place at Lydiard Millicent on Wednesday between 6pm and 7.30pm. Youngsters from all over West Swindon can play for the team and should contact Steve Gunn on 874621.

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PAZENTS ' Would you like a portrait of your children hand-painted onto silk? It could be a surprise present or something special for you to cherish.

Helping families through difficult times Do you like children, enjoy meeting people and have two or three hours a week to spare? If you say yes, read on says Jan Aylward

Home-Start Thamesdown is looking for more volunteers to join its team. It's a voluntary home-visiting scheme, offering friendship and support to families with at least one child under five years old. Home-Start volunteers are ordinary people from all kinds of backgrounds, but they are very special. They understand the day to day pressures of family life and can use their experience and knowledge to help support others with young children. They are prepared for visiting by completing a short course which is interesting, good fun and develops awareness and understanding. After the course volunteers are introduced to a family whom they visit weekly for two or three hours, to help and support in whichever

way is applicable to that family. Volunteers gain enormous satisfaction from helping others and they also learn and develop themselves as individuals. There is on-going training, support meetings and social gatherings. The Home-Start organisers also meet with volunteers individually to provide support and back-up. A large numberof families asking forhelp are from WestSwindonand Home-Start really needs new volunteers to work in the area. Why not join our next preparation course which will be held on Wednesday mornings between 29 September and 17 November. For more information, call Lynda, Jan, Avril or Penny on 613886, Monday to Friday between 930am and 330pm.

ptember, 730pm ne Room, Westlea School dmssin 75p {tnttlde$ ta ad ofte) Raffle proceeds to Guide l)ogs for the Blind op'ie aloii 96d by Shaw WI

Farlurther

atloi, please call Kay Twyman on 71

All you need to do is supply me with a photograph of your children and I will hand paint it onto silk in full portrait size. None of your time is wasted and it's all at a very down to earth price. I also undertake portraits of families, loved-ones and pets. For further information or to arrange an appointment, please contact me, Ranjit Matharu on Swindon (0793) 876178 or mobile (0850) 513248 5 Angus Close, Shaw, West Swindon

Stop out for charity on the liationwido Stop Reebok Day Sunday 26th September 2.30 - 3.30pm & 3.30 - 4.30pm • Link Centre In aid of Breakthrough Breast Cancer • £2.50 per hour session All levels welcome Try Step Reebok - the dynamic exercise program that shapes, tightens and defines muscles, and also bums the maximum amount of fat Also, the Kids Fitness Workout

1.30-2.15pm 50p Sponsorship forms and for further information, call Bernadette on(0865)326641

The Link Magazine • September 1993

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Twins get together A group for families with twins or multiple births holds its first meeting next month and is hoping for a good response. Twins is the idea of Linda Jacobs and Jackie Bannon from Grange Park, both mothers of twins, who see the group as giving the special kind of support parents of multiple births require. "Having more than one child puts different demands on parents," said Jackie. "A group of us have been meeting in houses but it's been getting crowded with so many children. We'd like to share ideas on caring for more than one child born at the same time and we can give each other support. Parents with older twins can also pass on useful information to those who have just had them. It can be a bit of a shock coping with more than one." Twins willmeet at the WestSwindon Health Centre on Monday 6 September, from lOam to 12.30pm.

Twins lineup with mums and dads,front from left, Helen Snook withJenniferand Amy, 7i', Lewis, Mark and Lema Tolman. Rear, Dennis with Gemma, Shona and Linda Bird, Emiline and Alexander with mum Zabrina Cole, Luke and Scott Jacobs with Linda and Gary Jacobs The group would also like mums For more information, call Linda expecting more than one baby to Jacobs on 876272 or Jackie Bannon on 871620. come along,

Townswomen's Guild

Correction

The West Swindon Townswomen's Guild met socially for a garden party and buffet lunch during August. Both event were a great success and money was raised for the Prospect's Hospice Funds and club funds. Mrs Joan Jef fries will be the speaker at the next meeting on 9 September on the subject 'I-launtings'. New members are always welcome. Please ring Stevie on 873567 or Doreen on 693707 to find out more.

Members of St Mary's Church in Lydiard Park raised nearly £2,000 at their annual flower festival and fete in early July. However we reported it was a contribution to the £15,000 needed for structural repairs on the chair. It should have read the church.

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Postcode

AT YOUR LIBRARY

It's all change at your library. You read in the June edition of The Link that a new team of staff had arrived. Well, it's starting to make its mark So, what's happened so far? Librarian Joyce Kirk-Brown tells you. I Story Time. Starting on Wed- unreserved books will be found zines, Games Master-style competinesday 8 September, 11am - here together with a mixture of tions, borrow computer books etc. 11.30am, there will be a storytime. older books. Always worth a look It would probably be 3-4 hours on a I hope that most if not all of you morningduring the school holidays. All are welcome and it's free. If anyone is interested in such a will find these changes are for the 2. Careers Section. Now in place: books /leaflets /information on better. Whateveryourreaction,your club please putyourname, address, jobs, interview skills, CV writing, comments on these or other library telephone number, computer type and any comments down on paper redundancy, university choices, matters are always welcome. And finally, we are thinking of and hand in to David Reed at the post graduate courses, returners to work, grants, college course etc. setting up a computer club. This library. Also included are the weekly would involve volunteers bringing September Exhibitions Wiltshire County Council vacancies their own equipment to the library 1 September -14 September Photography - Mr B Walker and Education Bulletin. Do ask for and being prepared to allow others to use it. There would be the chance 15 September -13 October help if needed. Poppydown Quilters to swap software, tips and maga3. 'Blockbusters' has been replaced by'FamilySagas' -historical, romantic and contemporary novels about families. 4. 'Book News' is the content of the noticeboard alongside 'Family Sagas' providing lists of bestsellers in all categories, their availability, plus previews and details of forthcoming titles. 5. 'Popular Choice' is the heading of the new shelf bay immediately opposite the 'IN' counter. New

- - -i.DENISE' DRAPES Professionally made FESTOON & AUSTRIAN BLINDS

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THINKING OF BUYING A CONSERVATORY OR WINDOWS?

Church ready for further 700 years

12 MONTHS INTEREST FREE BANK LOAN FOR SEPTEMBER ONLY NO DEPOSIT NECESSARY

VISIT THE NEW SOLO QUALITY SHOW SITE AT -j Rev John Flory, glad to leave All Saints in fine repair

The AllSaints Lydiard Milhicent congregation returned to their church on 22 August after a thirteen month absence for major repairs. £250,000 has been spent on stabilising and restoring the south-aisle roof, installing new electricity and other much needed improvements. The costs were met by a £180,000 grant from English Heritage which required a high quality restoration in keeping with the 14th Century building. £70,000 was raised by the All Saints congregation. John Flory will be delighted to see West Swindon people at his final services on Sunday 5 September. 10.30am at All Saints and 7.30pm at Shaw Church.

GARDEN CENTRE, LYDIARD MILLICENT PHONE US NOW ON

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IMPORT Where can you get a FAIR M.o.T.? At Nostalgia, a new concept in M.o.T.'s totally unbiased and independent. No repairs carried out. All re-tests free with no time limit. Classic and Modified cars our speciality. Please ring or call in

NOSTALGIA Dellers Garages, Ripley Road, Old Town, Swindon. Tel: (0793) 522801

Need a car? Afraid of being ripped off by shady dealers or sold a 'pup' by a private seller? We offer: i

home visits to discuss what car will best suit YOU

Secondhand Cars What makes a good buy? If you couldn't go for an 'L, Peter Swinyard of Hollyard Motors suggests some used models and offers some rules when buying

Small Cars Despite the Fiesta'senduringpopularity, I don't rate older ones as demand keeps prices too high. Metros older than a D will have rust somewhere. Go for a Polo or Uno, fun to drive until it crumbles into rust. Lower Medium The Golf is king. Not the insurancemaimed GTi, but the sensible 1600 and 1800 hatches. Go for a service history and a careful private owner. Parts not cheap but seldom needed. Escorts and Astras are poorer value, Maestros have to be VERY cheap to be considered -the trade hates them. Upper Medium Here, the Sierra rules. Simple mechanically, fairly pleasant to drive and roomy. Spares everywhere. cheap to run and insure. Executive If your annual mileage is modest, a used Senator,Rover 800 orGranada makes a lot of sense. Ferocious depredation in the first 3 years makes them affordable. The Senator wins for bulletproof quality and cheap runningcosts -a good CD13.0 comes between E2000 and £8000. Specialist Here are the BMW's etc. The oldshape 5-series is looking seriously dated now, but there is a steady demand for 518's and 520's. The 520i is the one to go for, with a supersmooth 6-cylinder engine and reasonable economy. Go to a good, small garage such as Bells in Wanborough for competent and affordable services. The 3-series lasts for ever, seemingly, but there are a lot of cars with dodgy histories around. Buy with great care. Mercedes-Benz 190's are just starting to lose value with the new Cclass coming this autumn, but a Dor E platerlooks likea good buy -check your children fit in the back first! Summertime is over Convertible prices soften drastically in mid-winter. The Escorts and

Astras are pleasant enough but the Peugeot 205 is the pickof the cheaper ragtops with a good hood and practical interior. 4 wheel drives THE Image machines of the mid90's. But beware the value bubble will burst in about 3 years when over-supply meets changing fashion and they will be about as saleable as a furry-dice encrusted Fiesta RS Turbo is now. Whatever you choose, however much money you have to spend, remember the golden ground rules.

1. Never spend more than you can afford - and check insurance costs before you buy. 2. Honest people sell honest cars. If you don't like the vendor, you're probably being sold a dog. 3. There is always another car. Walk away if the deal seems fishy. 4. If buying privately or from a small trader, go to their house. Never, ever, buy in a car park etc. 5. Unless you know what you're doing, buy from a dealer. It may be a little more expensive but you have more come-back if there are problems. If you buy privately, check with 1-IPI - a £15 service which checks outstanding credit, write-offs and stolen cars. 6. If you are still worried, get an engineers report from the AA/RAC etc. £100-200 buys a lot of reassurance. For cheaper cars, get a new MOT as a condition of sale. Go to a reliable garage like Titcombe's in Westmead. There are still some dodgy MOT's around in this area, but I won't say where. 7. Don't get carried away. And never, ever, pay the asking price. The trader may think you're a very nice person, but every dealer builds in some margin for negotiation. Just ask nicely.

cars bought to order - you name the car, we find it r your car taken in part exchange

your new car will have a full year's MOT (if over 3 years old) parts/labour warranty up to 24 months available r competitive prices

* quick, personal and expert service

Whether It's a boat, caravan or trailer BRITANNIA TOWING CENTRE Unit 16, Station Industrial Estate, Swindon CAN HELP! * Towbars for Cars, Vans & Light Vehicles * Seat Belts (Kangol & Britax Approved) * Child Safety Seats

Tel: (0793) 613147 or 488622 For further information, contact: Peter Swinyard on 870060 Chris Holden on 790578

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DUNCAN SELF DRIVE HIRE Vehicles for Hire at Competitive Rates Vans• Lutons• Estates Cars Mini Bus 272 Ermin Street Stratton St. Margaret

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

Swindon

Tel: 822193

Grown up films return to MGM

Open Daily 9am - 6 pm Sundays 9am - lOam

Lisa Clark checks out some films worth their full admission price With the summer holidays over, Hollywood is packing up its children's movies and is rediscovering grown-ups. September at MGM brings new adult films, from the fast-moving suspense drama 'The Firm' (opens 10 September) to the hopelessly romantic 'Sleepless in Seattle' (from 24 September). Clint Eastwood makes a comeback, and Harrison Ford does a big screen re-make of the TV series 'The Fugitive' (opens 24 September). 'The Firm' matches big gun Tom Cruise with Hollywood veteran Gene Hackman, and this is the first time Cruise gets top billing over a senior co-star. Cruise plays Mitch McDeere, a wide-eyed just out of college graduate who forgoes offers with top big city law firms to accept a position with a small but wealthy partnership in Memphis, Tennessee.

An ageing Clint Eastwood looking for a bullet aimed at the President It doesn't take long for Mitch to realise the firm's generous perks come with a price .. maybe even Mitch's life. This was the film that toppled

Jurassic Park from the charts in America. Will it do the same here? 'Sleepless in Seattle' stars Tom Hanks, a widower and father whose reluctant appearance' on a radio phone-in captivates Meg Ryan, who 5,000 miles away, just happens to be punching the buttons on her car radio. This sappy, syrupy, three-hankie movie was directed by Nora Ephron. She was the brains behind the marvel louslyfunny'When Harry Met Sally', which also starred Meg Ryan. 'In the Line of Fire' (from 27 September) Clint Eastwood plays a secret service agent who, 30 years after hefailedto stop the bulletmeant for John Kennedy makes a retirement comeback to outwit an assassin set on killing the President. Another movie featuring one of the world's most powerful men is 'Dave.' The trailers with Kevin Kline as a Presidential lookalike are hilarious. (Opens 24 September).

IjOldWyfl

CINEMAS

SATURDAY MORNING MOVIES FOR KIDS

11 September Star Wars

Film competitions get big support We were so overwhelmed with entries to the Bambi competition last month that the MGM have added three pairs of tickets as extra prizes. The Bambi Fun Pack goes to Wendy Hawkins of Shelf inch, Toothill and the tickets go to Felicity Orr, Featherwood, Westlea, Shiv Kumar, Warbeck Gate, Grange Park, and Christopher Yeow, Alpine Close, Shaw.

18 September Honey I Blew Up the Kids

As you're in the competition mood, try the 'Champions' competition below. We have two sets of 'Champions' T-shirts and shorts and three pairs of tickets to give away. In 'Champions' Gordon Bombay (Emilio Estevez) is a hotshot lawyer who lives life to the full. Fast cars, fast women and fast times come to an end one n.ght, when he is arrested for drunk driving and is ordered to do community service. His assignment is to coach ice hockey to a team of no hopers called District 5, an incompetent bunch of teenage misfits who can't skate, can't play and have never won a game.

25 September Star Trek

Simply answer the questions listed below and enter the answers in the grid to reveal the hidden word.

P1. Frozen water

Your name:

—1

2. Sport on ice skates 3. A group of players 4. 'Champions' star

Address: Estevez L.

Hey Kids! Look out for Aladdin and The Flint stones

5. To take part in game 6. Children and young goats 7. To place ball in back of net 8. Opposite of lose 9. A bunch of quacks

III

Send your entries to: The Link (Champs) 13 Castle Dore Freshbrook Swindon SN5 8P0 Dc —j

Saturdays lOam Tickets 21.70 MGM Shaw Ridge West Swindon

The Swindon Wide

CDondays Cash Ir Christmds Try our 30 day special Demonstrating the Latest Tupperware Items

£100

Free Tupperware in Demonstration Kit

Phone Sonia Himple, your Local Tupperware Manager for further details (0793) 871127

WEAN 'N WEAR * House and garden property maintenance * Cleaning property for new tenants/owners and before you move out * Spring cleaning for busy working people * Fridges, freezers and cookers a speciality * House sitting for holidays, deliveries, gas/electric * Fully insured with references

Call Janet on 875171

starts again on 6 September Link Centre 1 p - 230pm All women invited to come along. Free child care. Sessions over the next few weeks will include • Dealing with children's difficult behaviour • Learn how to massage • Raising self-esteem and confidence For more information, call Miriam Minty on 871212

Thursday 2 September Talk & Walk Wildlife and People - an interesting and amusing talk by the Lydiard Park Rangers. Lydiard Country Park, 8pm 10pm. £1, Juniors 50p

Thurs 9 Sept Talk Meditation techniques and related topics, designed to give greater understanding of yourself. Organised by The Gnostic Movement. Link Centre, 7.30pm. Free

Friday 3 September Wednesday 8 September Musical Patsy - The Patsy Cline Story. A new musical with all her orlginal hits starring George Hamilton IV and Sandy Kelly, plus full supporting company. Wyvern, Friday 8pm, Saturday Wednesday 7.30pm, Saturday matinee. 1!7.50412.50 Sandy Kelly as Patsy Cline

Friday 10 September Comedy The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) presented by The Reduced Shakespeare Co. Wyvern, 7.30pm. £7.50-9.50. Conc £1.50 off

Lister Beauty by 9oanne

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SUGARING PRACTITIONER AROMATHERAPIST BEAUTY THERAPIST Phone (0793) 613484 (24 hr answerphone)

NEW WORLD Double Glazed UPVC Windows Sample prices (include fitting and VAT): Front/Back Door (Safety Glass) 2.1 mx.9m Bedroom Window 1.2m x .9m W.C. Frosted Glass Window .6mx.9m Locking Handles Included • 10 year guarantee

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Kitchens Prices for units shown below (include VAT) Solid Oak Trimmed Door Cabinets Solid Pine Door Cabinets Oak door Cabinets

£425

£783 £5 I 9

Door Only Service Available Also

Saturday 4 September Gardening Pot Pourri Workshop. Community Gardening Centre, Moredon, 2pm. Tel: 523294 to book a place. £5 Fayre organised by Thamesdown Tenants Federation - Majorettes, fun fair, pony rides, craft stalls, karate display etc. Faring don Road Park, 11am 5pm. For more information contact 512445 Sunday 5 September Music The Swindon Big Band presented by the Swindon Jazz Society. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 730pm. £3, concessions £2.50 Mountain Bike Races See page 15 Conservation Caring for a Woodland Area A chance to get involved and try your hand at a variety of skills, call 771419 for more information. Peatmoor Copse, W. Swindon. Free

Saturday 11 September Wine Making Workshop Wine from the garden and hedgerows. Community Gardening Centre, Moredon, 2pm. Tel: 523294 to book aplace. £3 Children's Event The Magic Of Lydiard. Use your imagination and explore the magic and mythical creatures of Lydiard - a discovery event for 8-12 year olds. Lydiard Country Park, 1 0.3Oam - 4pm. £1.50 Music The Dynamic Gospel Singers from London. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7pm. £4 Sunday 12 September Entertainment The Other Side of Hair presented by five local hairdressers in aid of two AIDS charities - SPACE & HairCare. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7.30pm. £10 minimum donation, tel 538296 after 8pm to book Monday 13 September Exhibition Photographs from the GWR Museum Collection. Until early 1994. GWR Museum, Faringdon Road, 1 Oam - 5pm. Normal admission prices Tuesday 14 September Saturday 18 September Drama Dreams of Anne Frank by Bernard Kops, presented by Whirligig Theatre Company. Wyvern, Tuesday 1 .3Opm, Wednesday & Thursday lOam & 1 .3Opm, Friday lOam & 7pm, Saturday 230pm & 7pm. Adults £6.50, Children £4.50. Party rates available Wednesday 15 September Film Orlando (PG) presented by Swindon Film Society. A romp through English history portraying women's struggle against class and sexual oppression in a funny and richly textured spectacle. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7.45pm.

New World, Purton Road, Hook, Wootton Bassett RING WITH YOUR WINDOW/KITCHEN SIZES AND WE WILL QUOTE YOU OVER THE PHONE

SWINDON 849949 Showroom open: Mon - Fri 9am - 8pm • Sat/Sun I Oam

September overview Sunday 19 - Saturday 25 September (excl. Thursday) Community Play In a Wiltshire Village based on the works & collected folk songs of Alfred Williams. Roves Farm, Sevenhampton. Admission by programme only, contact Derek Shaw on 692716 for more information. £4, Concessions £3 Monday 20 September Saturday 25 September Drama Who Killed 'Agatha' Christie? by Tudor Gates, starring Lewis Collins, pictured below, and Patrick Mower. Wyvern. £6£10.50, Concessions available.

Monday 27 September Music A Recital by the winners of the Swindon Festival presented by The Music Club. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7.45pm Wednesday 29 September Guided tour A rare opportunity to visit the remains of the GWR works before complete redevelopment. Tours also on Sat 2 and Sun 3 Oct. and Wed 6 Oct. 2pm 4pm. £3.50 in advance from GWR Museum, Faringdon Road Wednesday 29 September & Thursday 30 September Opera Carmen presented by Travelling Opera. Wyvern, 730pm. £12.50, £10.50, Concessions £2 off Thursday 30 September Drama The Caretaker by Harold Pinter presented by The Theatre In The Downs. A funny and emotionally moving play. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 1 .3Opm, £2.50 & 7.30pm, £5, Students, Children £2.50.

Wednesday 22 September Drawing Workshop Sketching Skills Outdoor Workshop run by local artist John Soar. Lydiard Country Park, tel: 871212 to book a place. £5 Wednesday 22 September Saturday 25 September Drama Nude with Violin by Noel Coward presented by The Phoenix Players. Arts Centre, Devizes Road, 7.30pm. £3, concessions £2.50. Advance booking by telephone only on 813030 from 1/9/93 Thursday 23 September Music Cajun Music - The Flatville Aces. Link Centre, 8pm £5, £4.50 Saturday 25 September Gardening Bulbs Workshop Naturalising, bedding or forcing for Christmas. Take a pot home to grow and brighten up the winter. Community Gardening Centre, Moredon. Tel: 523294 to book a place. £5

Diabetes Open Evening Thursday 2 September, Drop in between 7pm & 8.30pm West Swindon Health Centre An opportunity for those with diabetes, their friends and family to ask questions, look at the displays, pick up some literature and find out about the latest research, technology and what is available to help enjoy the best possible health.

IF SO, THIS COULD BE YOUR WAY OUT TO A NEW HOME Mansfield Begbie Associates are pleased to offer Link magazine readers the benefits of an Equity Replacement Scheme, a special mortgage for property owners who have mortgages which are the same or more than the value of their present property We can offer 100% (maximum 'Loan to Value') fixed rate mortgages which includes the difference between your present property value and your present mortgage. Take your debt with you at a very advantageous fixed rate of 5.99% until April 1995. For example, £50,000 at 5.99% costs £212.14 per month (interest only, net of MIRAS). If you are in or near to the mortgage trap, we could help you move. Call Mike Rees on

Swindon 873369 (2 lines) M

/ - AIOciate

Mansfield Begbie Associates

MORTGAGE & INSURANCE SERVICES "Mansfield Begbie Associates represents only Cornhill Insurance PLC for life assurance and pension business. Cornhill PLC is a Member of Lautro." 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 September 1993

CAROLINE MOBILE HAIRDRESSER Top quality products used Competitive rates Excellent service For further details

Tel: 723081

Holiday play

Autumn already?

WASPS playschemes provided dozens of children with exciting things to do over the summer holidays. The play scheme team toured West Swindon, settling on different primary schools forfive weeks, each of which had a theme such as puzzles and games, crafts and sports. With financial support from Thamesdown Council, WASPS is in its ninth year as a voluntary organisation providing holiday play activities for 5 to 14 year olds.

Feeling blue through lack of summer sunshine? Don't worry, Link Centre's new activities and special offers will soon put you back in the pink again. Alison Bruce tells you how

Puppet making and face painting at Oliver Tomkins School, rear left, Nicholas Saunders and Gary Hobbs. Front,from left, Alice Rumsey, Hannah Soutar, Emma Skefflngton

The Cambridge Diet - the nutritious way to lose weight Great news! Four new flavours for you to enjoy - Butterscotch, Chocolate Mint, Asparagus and Chicken and Mushroom - plus we've improved on all the old favourites. Contact your Counsellor to try them today Telephone Rebecca Clifforde (Westlea) on 873201 Hedith PLinj

TERRACOTTA PLANT POTS HANDMADE

FROSTPROOF

Our new Autumn Activities brochure is now available with all the very latest pay-as-you-play activities, whilst details on Community Suite and Link Arts events will give you some exciting dates for your diaries from September through to the New Year. Septemberis also abumpermonth for the introduction of some money saving offers and special events. So come on over to Link Centre, you're sure to find something to enjoy. Burmah Castrol British Primary and Novice Ice Skating Championships Sunday 5 September and Monday 6 September Link Centre is proud to present this prestigious event for the 3rd year running-this time with the addition of the Primary Championships too! With the continued support of Burmah Castrol, it will be a special event for all the family to come and watch. Spectators will be welcome anytime between 9am - 9pm. Cost: adults E2,juniors £1 or mini group £6. For further details, please contact Alan Seabrook, Ice Development Manager, tel: 871212. Ice Hockey and Skate Come to any of ourSatunlayevening Wildcats Ice Hockey matches and you'll gain discounted entry to the excitingSaturday Disco Skating session, 8.30pm - 10.30pm. All you have to do is retain your Ice Hockey ticket and show it to the Receptionist after the match. Cost: adults £1.60, juniors £1.20 plus 65p skate hire.

West Swindon

n d I

End of Season Sale

(until end of September)

All pots reduced Some Half Price Courtyard Pottery Groundwell Fajiji, Cricklade Road Swindon

Tel: 727466 Mon - Sat 9.00am - 5.30pm Sunday 1 p - 500pm

Drive Share Going to work in an empty car? Places to offer? Call Stephanie Ahmed West Swindon Drive Share coordinator, on 881413.

To advertise In: un elephone :0793) 872282

Domebuster and Skate Dare to ride the giant waterslides at the Oasis - including the notorious Black Hole and in return we'll give you a half price skate session at the Link Centre. This offer is valid throughoutSeptember only, but the half price skate need not be redeemed until the end of October 1993. Use your half price skate ticket on our Tuesday Family and Friends session oron ourJunior Disco session, both at 5pm- 6.30pm. We dam you to try it! Circuits to Success From the beginning of September we will be introducing Women's and Men's Circuits to the Health Suite on a Monday evening. This will replace the normal Silver and Gold programmes but will give you the opportunity to build stamina and strength in the gym with professional instruction. Suitable for beginners. Women's Circuits 6.30pm - 7.20pm Men's Circuit's 7.40pm - 8.30pm Cost: £1.90 per session Bronze programmes will continue as normal on Monday evenings. Simply Physical Our regular keep fit enthusiasts will be aware that Simply Physical on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, has now changed to a slightly earlier time of 7pm - 8pm. Beginners will now have the chance to come to theclass at 645pm to introduce themselves and discuss any concerns they may have. Between 8pm and 8.15pm there will also be an opportunity to talk to the instructoraboutyour fitness requirements. Come along to this popular aerobic class at the new time and feel the difference Christmas ice pantomime I realise thatChristmas is a longway off in most people's minds at the moment, but at the Link Centre, plans are well under way for our annual Christmas Ice Pantomime. This year we will be presenting Cinderella, a much loved and wellknown story, from Saturday 18 December - Tuesday 21 December, inclusive. There will be both matinee and evening performances and details will be available shortly via posters and flyers, tickets will be on sale from the beginning of October. For further information on any of our activities please contact Main Reception. Tel: 871212. We look forward to seeing you.

RECREATION

Moves Fitness

..:CIRCUIT ThANING Refuge puts shirts on local team Local under 11s football team AFC Greendown has been sponsored by the Swindon office of Refuge Assurance. The youngsters will be wearing their new green and black strip in the Mid-Wilts League from September. Pictured with team manager Gary Williams, centre, and Refige Assurance manager Tommy Wlweldon, from rear left, Alexander Ogle, Jock Hanky, Lee Jefferies, Richard Dodd, Michael Lees, Dave O'Sullivan. Front,from left, Martin Small, Rob Bartlett, Alex Bridges, Paul Gonzalez

.átFreshbrook .1 CoIn mum,ty!:Centre Thursdays 6pm - 7pm £2 Call Tony Wright on 496029 for more :.... ii1form.tion

Aerobic Dance with a Difference - the class that will make you feel good in more ways than one Oliver Tomkins School, Toothill Monday 7.30pm - 8.30pm Croft Sports Centre, Marlborough Lane, Old Town Tuesday 8pm - 9pm For more information telephone Jenny: 725980

STEP REEBOK Freshbrook Community Centre Monday

7pm - 8pm and 8pm - 9pm All Levels

Freshbrook School, Willows Hall Starting Tuesday 7th September 7.30pm - 830pm Absolute Beginners Wednesday 7pm - Bpmand 8pm - 9pm All Levels Thursday

7.30pm - 830pm

All Levels

Beginners Welcome at 'All Levels' Classes

£2.50 per session (11 sessions £25) Instructor: Bernadette Cowap (YMCA, RSA, Shape & Reebok Step Trained) Cost:

Work-out for Breakthrough Will the earth move for you on 26 September? Join 25,000 Step Reebokers working out for Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research? Local Step instructor Bernadette Cowap is holding a Step event at the Link Centre on 26 September with hourly sessions at 2.30pm and 330pm. There's a kids keep fit workout at 130pm to 2.15pm. Whether Step is new to you, or you're experienced at it, get your sponsor forms together and raise some cash for a good cause. Call Bernadette for a form and to book a step. Tel. 0865 - 326641.

Getting weight under control The Swindon Diet Centre at 3 Cricklade Court, Old Town, Swindon has become very popular with those wishing to sheds the pounds and then learn how to maintain their correct weight. This ranges from people weighing 9 stone through to others at 25 stone, and includes a number of sportsmen and women. At the Clinic you will be seen weekly by the same doctor who may prescribe medication to control your appetite together with a high pro-

tein low fat diet. You are encouraged to eat regular meals with meat, fish, poultry plus vegetables. There are separate diets for vegetarians. The average weight loss is 5 to 7 pounds in the first week and then 14 pounds each month. When the target weight has been reached patients are seen periodically to ensine weight maintenance. Forfurtherinformation orto make an appointment, 'phone 614636.

Mountain bikers race for Prospect North Wilts Rotary Club holds a series of mountain bike races at the Foxhill Moto Cross Park, Wanborough on Sunday September starting at lOam. Races forunder 14s boys and girls right through to over 45s Masters take place at the international motocross circuit which will be amended to suit pedal power. Details and entry forms are available at the Link Centre or from Blackfords Landscape Services,

Green Hill, between Hook and Purton. Cost of entry ranges from £5 for juniors to £10 for experts. Entries on the day will be accepted but will be subject to a late fee of £2. The proceeds of the event will go to the Prospect Hospice Appeal and other local charities. For visitors who want to watch the racing, the circuit will be signposted from Junction 15 and there will be good car parking, toilets and refreshments.

Tel: (0865) 326641 If You Wish to Reserve a Step

................................. S S S S S S S

. .

The Greendown DAYTIME

WORK-OUT

S S

Aerobics with Weight Training

Aerobics to warm up and cool down with the main part of the session geared to individual needs using the well equipped Health Suite.

S S S S S S

Sessions will aim to develop your fitness levels at your own pace using the Running, Step and Rowing Machines

Introductory offer: First course only £15 forlO weeks or weekly £1 .50

S S S

Starts Wednesday 7 September 1 lam - 12 noon, Greendown School

Contact: Laura Smith on 874224 for further details or to book a place (max 15 spaces)

: Creche facilities may be available. Please enquire. ••S•S••SSSS••SS••••SSU•SS•••S•SS•

The Link Magazine

LINK

CENTRE

TI you're not exercising, do it now!

Introducing 'Circuits' to the Link Centre Health Suite

Did you lookat your body over the summer holidays and think that you must do something about it?

Mondays: 630pm - 7.20pm women only 740pm - 8.30pm men only Cost: £1.90 per session - fully supervised and suitable for all abilities

Don't forget, we also offer: • Full Health Suite Facilities

• Lifestyle Classes

• Aerobic Classes - lunchtimes & evenings

• Aquarobics

• Step Step Step

• Mixed Circuit Training

Classes for All abilities, to suit Your lifestyle Link Centre, Whitehill Way Westlea, Swindon, Wilts Tel: (0793) 871212

Recreabon Ser,,ces BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN N

401ERNEIGHF? MEDICALLY SUPERVISED WEIGHT LOSS THE QUICK WAY TO SLIM +

Private weekly consultation with a qualified doctor

Individual diet and medication

•

Highly successful method of slimming - proven over the past 15 years

•

Comprehensive maintenance programme once target weight is reached Telephone Swindon 0793 614636 for an appointment or further information

Swindon Diet Centre 3 Cricklade Court, Cricklade Street, Old Town, Swindon

OK, you're back at work, the kids low fat cheese. See the Healthy Eatare in school or playgroup. Memo- ing article opposite. ries of the beach and the tan are But as fat is nothing less than unfading. Maybe you ate a bit too used stored energy, you need to much, perhaps knocked back a few burn it up. Exercise, if you're not used to it, too many Sangrias. For many, childhood memories can be a bit uncomfortable at first. of returning to school makes Sep- But the stiffness wears off aftera day tember the real start of a new year. or two. Finding the resolve and the There's nearly four months be- discipline to fit regular exercise into fore the booze and burst Christmas your week is usually more difficult. holiday season, so now's a good It's easier not to move from the TV, time to take stock of your physical or to find something else to do isn't well-being and take a long term ap- it? proach to getting fit. But consider the long term benWhatever your age, burning en- efits. Regular exercise reduces the ergy through exercise is good for risk of heart disease, your lung and you. Severalreasons. Ifyouwantto heart efficiency improves, so does lose weight, exercise is an essential your general strength and stamina. ingredient. Crash diets won't do the What's more, the sense of well being job. The shock causes your body to and achievement goes a long way to think it's in starvation mode and improving your self esteern you put on even more weight when There are lots of ways of getting fit. Just look at the advertisements you come off the diet. You already know you have to on these two pages and on page 15. cut down on cakes, sweets, fried There are lots of classes aimed at food, cream and pies which are full different levels, at various times of saturated fat. If you're serious which will suit your lifestyle. about losing weight, you need to eat So, are there any excuses for not fish, lean meat, poultry, fresh fruit taking part? and vegetables, skimmed milk and P.S. This applies to men and women

TIME TO GET BACK INTO SHAPE, rn

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS Wednesdays 8.00pm-9.00pm NOW IN THE GREENDOWN SPORTS HALL Designed for those people who have not exercised for some time and need a gentle re-introduction. Suitable for men and women of all ages and abilities.

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THE BODIES BY DESIGN CLUB Do you need to get f It? Do you need to lose weight? Do you know that diet and exercise should go together

So don't just sit there! Join us for: THE TOTAL BODY WORKOUT Total Body Conditioning: Warm Up Aerobics, Stretch, Floorwork, Cool Down. Tuesdays 730pm - 8.30pm NOW IN THE GREENDOWN SPORTS HALL LOTS MORE SPACE - BRING YOUR FRIENDS Fridays 6.30pm-7.30pm

Greendown Gym

BY DESIGN LTD

Light exercise & up to date dietary advice Bring the children and we'll look after them What's your excuse? Friday 10.30am - 11.30am Freshbrook Community Centre Only £3.50 per session

Sundays 7.30pm-8.30pm Greendown Gym

TOO BUSY TO GET FIT?

ALL CLASSES STILL ONLY £2.50

Ever considered your own Personal Trainer? Lee Hogan, with 14 years experience in fitness, will work with you on a one to one basis to help you achieve fitness or weight loss goals. Lee, who works with a number of local people, will be happy to discuss your

NO MEMBERSHIP, JUST PA VON THE DAY FREE RAFFLE AT THE END OF EACH MONTH Sundays 11 am EXERCISE TO MUSIC AT THE DEVERE HOTEL, SHAW RIDGE Take a weekend break with some light exercise and a good stretch. Limited spaces. £3 per class. Use of pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room for £2.50.

requirements. You don't have to be rich to give him a call.

TEL: 14:8-684928 or 0831 -098273 FOR DETAILS

Keep Fit Feature

The right diet puts you on the right route to good health

HEALTH HYDRO

Linda Baxter from the Swindon Health Promotion Unit suggests what you can do for yourself Enjoying a high fibre, low fat eating regime can protect against the development of heart disease and can contribute to reducing stress. A high fat diet is one of the major risk factors in the development of coronary heart disease which accounts for nearly 500 deaths in the Swindon area each year. Your healthy eating plan should be based on wholemeal bread, rice, pasta and potatoes with fresh fruit and fresh vegetables. Add to this

small portions of meat, fish, cheese, poultry etc and make limited use of fats and oils. Each day adults should try to eat: • llb of fruit and/or vegetables and at least 6 helpings from the following list of starchy foods: • I slice wholemeal bread • 4oz boiled potatoes • 2oz boiled rice/pasta • 1/2oz breakfast cereal • 2 wholemeal crackers/crispbreads Note: each item listed is one helping

Here are some easy to make daily changes that will help reduce the fat content of your diet • Use lean meat with all visible fat removed • Remove chicken and turkey skin • Swap a spoonful of a meat/ chicken dish for an extra helping of potato, rice or pasta • Try to cut down onfat- use low fat alternatives • Bewa re of ca kes, pastries, biscuits, sweets and chocolates - they contain a lot of sugar and fat • Try some vegetable soups with wholemealbread/rolls instead of a pudding • Use the same amount of half-fat cheese in cooking or half the quan tity of mature cheddar

F I T N E S S esuø

• Add beans or pulses (ie lentils, split peas) to casseroles so less meat is required • Put the frying pan away for good - try grilling, steaming, microwaving or dry frying • Do not add fat unless absolutely necessary and use polyunsatu rated fats and oils when required • Drain off any fat from foods before serving • Do not toss vegetables or potatoes in fat • Use semi-skimmed or skimmed milk for sauces, custards etc • Try reducing sugar by a third - it will not affect the result

RN1H Morning Fitness Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 - 11am Steps Sundy 10-11cm Steps Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Friday Mixed Circuit Training Wednesday, Friday

12.15- 1 p 1 - 1.45pm 12.15- 1 p

EVENi Steps Monday to Wednesday Thursday Friday Turns & Burns Thursday Absolute Beginners Thursday Tone Up & Swim Monday, Wednesday North Star Avenue Swindon Tel: (0793) 533404

6 - 7pm 5.45 - 6.45pm 6 - 7pm 6.45 - 7.30pm 7.30 - 8.1 5pm 7.15- 8.15pm

Recreation Services

BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN

Iff

"Fitness and Fun for Everyone" Steps

Aquarobics

Aerobics

Early Morning Swim + Lane Swimming Cardio Vascular Exercise Studio STEP CLASSES Tuesday 7.30pm - 8.30pm Wednesday 7.45am - 8.30am* 7.30pm - 8.30pm Friday 10.30am- II.3Oam Sunday *Gold I AS, Card £ I Cost £3.35, Junior £ AEROBICS Tuesday Thursday

12.30pm- I.lSpm 12.30pm- l.lSpm

Turns and Bums Thursday

5.30pm - 6.1 5pm

Cost £2.30, Junior £1.15, Gold Card £ I CV STUDIO (Early Morning) Monday, Tuesday, Friday 7.30arn - 9.30am Cost Half hour £1.05, I hour £2.10, Gold Card SOp Mens ladies and mixed sessions programmed throughout the week - telephone for details. AQUAROBICS Thursday lI.ISpm - 12.ISpm Friday 12.1 5pm - I. I 5pm (term time) Cost £2.30, Junior £1.15, Gold card, £ I EARLY MORNING SWIM 7.30am - 8.30am Thursday Cost £1.50, junior 75p, Gold Card SOp ADULT SWIM CLINIC Sunday 8.30am - I I.30am Cost £1.80 LANE SWIMMING Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 noon - I.ISpm Cost £1.50, Junior ?'Sp, Gold Card SOp

COMMIT TO GET FIT For further details contact Reception, tel: (0793) 693787 HEALTH HYDRO MILTON ROAD SWINDON

Recreation Services BOROUGH OF THAMESDOWN AV•

Clubs and groups meeting at Greendown Community School, Grange Park Greendown is a community school. All facilities including Gym, Sports Hall, Classrooms, Grass and All Weather Pitches are available for hire at modest rates. Contact the Community Booking Clerk on 874224. The many Adult Education classes at Greendown are not listed. For course details, contact the organiser on 871413. To find out more about one of the groups listed below, contact the person given, or make a visit when the group meets. Monday Greendown Playgroup. 9.15am - 12noon; 12pm - 245pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Visitors: 10am - 11 .3Opm.

Thursday Greendown Playgroup. 9.15am - 12noon. Visitors: lOam - 11.30pm.

West Side United FC Under 14s training. 5.30pm. Contact Mike Spotswood, 871507

Arabic & Holy Quran studies for Muslim children run by Jamia Mohammadia. 5.30pm - 7pm. Dining Room. Run by Mr S. Khan.

Concorde Girls Gym Club. 6.30pm - 8.30pm. Sports Hall. Contact Tracy Viveash, 881791.

GWR Majorettes. 6pm - 7.30pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Contact Cohn Parfett, 870996.

Ju-Jitsu. Juniors: 630pm - 8pm; Seniors: 8pm - 10pm. Gym. Contact Steve Cole, 872445.

Ju-Jitsu. Juniors: 6.30pm - 8pm; Seniors: 8pm - 10pm. Gym Contact Steve Cole, 872445.

Greendown Youth Club. 730pm - 10pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Contact Richard Williams, 874224.

Greendown Youth Club. 7.30pm - 10pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Contact Richard Williams, 874224.

Wootton Bassett Ladies Netball Club. 8.30pm - 10pm. Sports Hall. Contact Helen Cooper, 854757.

Concorde Badminton Club. 7pm - 10pm. Sports Hall. Contact John Hare, 874008.

Tuesday Greendown Playgroup. 9.15am - 12noon. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Visitors: 10am - 11 .3Opm.

Springs 'n Things Childrens Trampoline Club. 6pm - 8.30pm. Sports Hall. Contact Mrs Walker, 876333.

Greendown Playmates Toddler Group. 145pm - 345pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. West Side United FC training. Contact Under 11 s Roy Allen, 875463; Under 12s David Cosgrove, 870715; Under 13s Ron Sproule, 875463 Springs 'n Things Childrens Trampoline Club. 6pm - 8.30pm. Gym. Contact Mrs Walker, 876333. Greendown Youth Club. 7.30pm - 10pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Contact Richard Williams, 874224. Wootton Bassett Ladies Hockey Club. 7.30pm - 9pm. All Weather Pitch. Contact Rosemary Fuller, 852121 (days). Bodies by Design. Total body conditioning to music. 7.30pm - 830pm. Sports Hall. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928. Concorde Badminton Club. 7pm - 10pm. Sports Hall. Contact John Hare, 874008. Wednesday Greendown Playmates Toddler Group. 930am - 11 .3Oam. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Arabic & Holy Quran studies for Muslim children run by Jamia Mohammadia. 1 2.3Opm - 230pm. Dining Room. Run by Mr Khan. West Swindon F.C. Under 13s & Under 15s. 530pm - 6.30pm. Gym/Sports Hall. Contact Frank Bridges, 873298. Community Drama Club. 6pm - 10pm. Drama Studio. Contact Jools Dowling, 874224. Swindon Hockey Club. Ladies: 6.30pm - 8pm; Men: 7.30pm - 9pm. Sports Hall /All Weather Pitch. Contact Chris Kershaw, 545245 (days). Woodcraft Folk Youth Group. 6.30pm - 8pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite/Dining Hall. Contact Phillip Lewis, 457706. Bodies by Design - Fitness class for beginners. 8pm ppm. Sports Hall. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928. Greendown Youth Club. 730pm - 10pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. Contact Richard Williams, 874224. West Swindon F.C. (Wilts. Division) 7pm. Contact Gary Regan, 537459.

Friday Greendown Playgroup. 915am - 12noon. Visitors: lOam - 11.30pm. Arabic & Holy Quran studies for Muslim children run by Jamia Mohammadia. 1 230pm - 230pm. Len Hobbs Community Suite. AFC Greendown. Football for under 1 O 4.15pm - 5.20pm; under us 5.20pm - 6.30pm. Sports Hall. Contact Gary Williams, 873664. Concorde Girls Gym Club. 6pm - 10pm. Sports Hall. Contact Tracy Viveash, 881791. Bodies by Design. Total body conditioning to music. 6.30pm - 7.30pm. Gym. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928. Air Training Corps. 7pm - 930pm. Dining Hall Saturday Concorde Girls Gym Club. 9am - 1pm. Sports Hall. Contact Tracy Viveash, 881791. The Kids Language Company. French, German and Spanish for under us. Contact Eileen Mochan 874717. Swindon Hockey Club. Juniors: lOam - 12noon; Seniors: 12 noon - 6pm. Contact Chris Kershaw, 545245. Concorde Badminton Club. Juniors: 7pm - 11pm. Sports Hall. Contact John Hare, 874008. Sunday Indoor Bowls. 9.30am - 530pm. Sports Hall. Contact Jill Budden, 490724. Bodies by Design - Total body conditioning to music. 730pm - 8.30pm. Gym. Contact Lee Hogan 0488 - 684928.

Duke of Edinburgh Scheme Young people aged 14 to 25 can work towards Bronze, Silve. and Gold awards through a combination of: • Community Service, i.e. learn about the police or fir service, first aid, child care. etc. • Expeditions of 2 to 4 days in challenging surroundings • Skill Development .arts and crafts, computing, music. etc. • Physical activity - swimming, dance, athletics, team games, etc. Contact Bob Linnegar on 874224 for more information.

The Greendown Cardio Vascular Fitness Room Twelve fitness stations to improve muscle tone and all round fitness. £75 membership paid annually, quarterly or £6.50 a month. Contact Steve O'Sullivan on 874224

The Link Magazine • September 1993 19

What do you think of West Swindon?

CARTER, READ & DOVE SOLICITORS

What do you like? What do you moan about? Mark Thomas, the new project workerattheWestSwindonFamlly and Community Project, is starting a Community Voice group and he wants to know what you think. Now's your chance to express your views about the area and the problems that affect you. This is also a chance to talk about the issues with other people living in the community. Mark says that as a newcomer to West Swindon, he wants to find out about the area from a cross section of people in the area. "I've already picked up a lot of concern such as speeding cars, vandalism, local parks unfit to play in and so on. There are obviously problems to be discussed and complaints to be directed at the organisations responsible. I see the Community Voice group as a way of talking about local issues that concern local people."

Contact us for all your legal needs including house sale & purchases, family matters, personal injury claims and employment law Commerce House, 34/35 Commercial Road, Swindon Tel: (0793) 617617

Mark Thomas Community Voice will have its first meeting on Tuesday 21 September from 1pm to 3pm. Mark would also like to hear from people interested in an evening discussion group. Call him on 871303.

THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOUSE? Don't pay over the odds when paying off your mortgage! Ask for our free information sheet

Cleaning service supports the householder Do you need yourhouse looked after whilst you're on holiday? Or does it need cleaning for new tenants, or before you move out. Janet Organ from Grange Park runs Klean 'n Klear to provide a whole range of back up services to home owners. She'll give your house a complete spring clean including removing Winning numbers items to the dump, or she'll take on from Domino's the particular jobs you don't fancy, like cleaning the 'fridge, freezer or Domino's Pizza at West Swindon cooker. Centre hold a monthly customer Taking a day off work to await a prize draw and the results are pubdelivery or for the plumber to come lished every month exclusively in around can be expensive and incon- The Link. venient. Janet will happily house sit to open the door and explain what The prizes are: has to be done. She also takes on 1st £50 Marks & Spencer voucher light maintenance to keep the gar- 2nd £30 cash 3rd E20 video vouchers den under control. Many people let their property £5 Domino's vouchers for 7 others. privately and Janet provides a local Every time you buy a pizza, your property agency service. She'll pre- order number goes into the draw. pare the house for letting, carry out an inventory and will keep an eye This month's winners: 1st Miss Page, Chandos Close, on the property during the let. She already works for several Grange Park (Order No. 2072) property agencies and carries full 2nd Mrs Durham, Mulcaster Avenue, Grange Park (2168) insurance for her service. References are available from previous 3rd Mr Hodmen, Applewood customers which support the qualCourt, Westlea (2327) Runners up: ity of her work. If you're looking for somebody to Mrs Matthews (2318), Mr Glasscock take on some of the inconvenient (1915), Mr Wagner (2074), Mr jobs in maintaining your property, Clements (2069), Mr Michaelis call Janet Organ of Klean 'n Klear on (2066), Mr Jones (1956), Mr Downes 875171. (2223)

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The Link Magazine September 1993

TUTOR wrrH TwENTY YEAR'S EXPERIENCE offers Maths, English and Science in your home at Junior, GCSE and A Level. Age range: 6 to 50 Boost your confidence now Tel: 870257 and 823159

Lab studies for young scientists West Swindon primary school children will soon be carrying out experiments in a real science laboratory. FromSeptember, teachertime and ited the scope of work that could be the progress of learning between a laboratory at Greendown School done. Using secondary school fa- schools is more closely integrated. Greendown primary school liaihave been set aside to allow chil- cilities will improve the range of dren from primary schools to pur- investigation work primary school son teacherTim Noble said a number of local primary schools had booked sue projects in a real scientific set- children can undertake, she said. "We will be working with pri- time at the Greendown lab to study ting. The idea came about after primary school teachers and building the property of light, the environmary school headteachers expressed on work already developed. The ment, space projects and how to use concern about the problems of car- children will carry out their initial microscopes. He added that school minibuses rying out science experiments re- research at their school. Then they'll quired by the national curriculum. come into the Greendown lab to do will provide free transport to bring Greendown science teacher Sue their experiments which they will children to Greendown. He hoped Burn has already been working in write up back in their classroom." to see similar joint iniLatives in other some primary schools but the reShe said the long term aim is to subjects to smooth the transition strictions of moving equipment Em- bring together the primary and sec- between primary and secondary ondary school curriculum so that schools.

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E Hodge Carpenter & Joiner New doors supplied and fitted. Kitchens, wardrobes, replacement windows. Repair work. Free estimates. No VAT. 30 years in trade. Tel: (0793) 641057

YOUR LOCAL GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST

Guidance Vouchers can help you wise up on careers Professional careers, education and training advice for people living in Wiltshire is now available eitherfree or at a reduced rate. A new voucher scheme 'Gateways Plus', is being funded by Wiltshire TEC to help employed and unemployed people. Vouchers worth ÂŁ65 are available free to people who a re unemployed, those working for under 16 hours per week, and for women consideringreturningto work, studyor training. Vouchers are also available for employed people who make a contribution of ÂŁ37.50. One of the first organisations chosen to pilot and participate in Gateway Plus, was Career Guide, based in the town centre. Careers advisor Adele Merrison said, "People are able to talk through their ideas at length with a professionally qualified adviser, and take away a personal development plan and other information from our extensive information centre. "Psychometric testing (assessments of ability, aptitude or career interests) is also available for people uncertain about what they want to do, or unable to decide between a number of options. Career Guide's

county-wide services are used by people planning their career or a career change, job seekers, women returners and people made redundant. I feel Gateway Plus is particularly valuable, now that free adult careers guidance is no longer available in Wiltshire." For details of the voucher scheme and to make an appointment, contact Career Guide on 420265

Train to avoid violence A new self defence course called 'It's My Life' foryoung women aged 14 to 18 years is being planned for the autumn following the success of a first course atToothill Farm Youth Club. The course concentrates on street awareness, how toavoid troubleand basic self defence techniques. Young women who would like to find out what is involved should drop in at Toothill Farm, Bodiam Drive, Toothill from 7.30pm on Wednesday evenings until 15September, or leave a message for Jo Marchment on 871212.

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Letters to The Link

Letters should be sent by 16th of the month to the address on page 2.

4th July problems

Thanks for condolences

From Sheila Mitchell, Moresby Cl., Westlea Thelndependence Day celebrations held at Pinkerton's American Bar and Grill on 4 July (August Link) may well have raised funds forcharity and been enjoyed by those that attended. But to some of the residents who live in houses close to the Shaw Ridge Leisure Park the noise and disruption caused by the event was too much to bear- especially the fireworks in the evening. Before the opening of the Shaw Ridge complex, residents expressed theirconcerns about various aspects including noise levels, security etc. They were assured that they would be unaffected by it but in reality most of their fears have been confirmed. There has been an increase in petty crime and minor disturbances. Cars, including taxis parkin Carronbridge Road, at the back of houses in Goldsbomugh Close and many of these residents feel intimidated by the noisy revellers late at night. They no longer feel secure in their own homes. Those residents hoping to sell their houses in these already difficult, recessive times find that prospective buyers seem genuinely put off by the leisure complex being so close to the houses.

From Morag and Shona Redpath, Clarke Drive, Shaw Morag and Shona Redpath would Scotland (CHAS), chosen because like to thankfriends and neighbours of the work I (Morag) have done for their kindness and support fol- with children in Scotland and Englowing the sudden death of Peter, land. Only recently have we been loving husband and father. aware that there is no hospice for Donations which have been re- children in Scotland. The closest is ceived with thanks have gone to the in Yorkshire, many miles from the Children's Hospice Association children's homes.

K GI

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Middleleaze Play Area

From Coun. Mike Rutland, councillor for Toothill & Shaw With reference to the two letters in which is furthest away from houses. the August Link magazine which 4. The maze will remain in its were forand against the Middleleaze present position. play area, I think that it shows the There seems still to be some conproblems that local councillors have fusion regarding finance forthe play in pleasing everybody over a par- area. It is NOT being paid for by the ticular issue. Borough Council. The developers Both myself and Coun. Linda of the houses in the area have proGreen worked with theLeisureServ- vided the funds which cannot be ices Officers to have the play area used for any other purpose. Theothermaincauseof complaint redesigned. The alterations are: 1. The aerial runway has been re- is the idea that when houses were moved and replaced by a group purchased, property searches swing at the base of the bowl. showed the land to be open space. 2. The main play area has been Under the Thamesdown definition, moved significantly away from the this can means that play area can be stream edge and will be fenced and built upon it. planted. I hope that the above will clear up 3. The toddlers play area has been anyquestions,butifanybodywishes increased in size, utilising more of to speak to me, please ring me on the land adjacent toSaltway School, 724927.

Tel: (0793) 870790 for a professional service

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22 The Link Magazine September 1993

FOR SAFETY'S SAKE Have your Central Heating Boiler serviced every year Full service on domestic gas fired boilers • £25 inc. VAT

Tel: 522201 PG Hennion & Co. Ltc, Whitehead St. Swindon

CORGI Registered

NEW

New arrivals to West Swindon, and long term residents who want to find out what's going on in the area, are invited attend a weeklycoffee morning run by Thamesdown Council's community development worker Pam Pixton. It takes place on Tuesday fromi Oam until 12 noon in the Community Suite at the Link Centre and is a chance to meet other newcomers and talk to Pam about local facilities.

Bishop Edgington PROPERTY MANAGERS EST. 1882, (opposite Swindon Town Hall). Tel: 536552

THE VALET SERVICE FOR YOUR HOME

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THE WEST?

The office in the Community Suite also have copies of WEST, The Link magazine's guide to West Swindon. WEST lists local councillors, health facilities, schools and other useful information, as well as businesses providing services to residents. A map of the area is also available. The Community Suite has information on the 150 crmmunity groups in the area and can put you in touch with voluntary organisation across the town. The office opening hours are 930am - 1230pm and 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Tel: 871212 ext 234.

We are pleased to announce that this is our 111th year. We now have some spare capacity to give full attention to your letting business. Call Mrs Cindy Hammond at:

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Repairs to most makes of Washing Machines, Dryers, Dishwashers, Microwaves and Vacuum Cleaners

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The Link Classifieds Boxes cost £13 (3cm deep) or £6.50 (1.5cm deep). Lineage costs 20p per word, includes VAT. Cash with advert to 13 Castle Dore, Freshbrook, Swindon SN5 8PQ Italian Lessons Spoken and Written Ring Sandra on 871963 (eves) Clothing Alterations & Repairs Tel: 872096 Mrs White, Freshbrook

S.C'S BOOK-KEEPING SERVICE Small Business Book-keeping, Wages, VAT. & Final Accounts

Tel: (0793) 873483

French, German, Italian, Spanish tuition Small daytime classes or one to one. Tuition and translation in other languages. Full details from Lightning Language Services. Tel: 814354 Washing Machine Repairs • Same Day Service Guaranteed Repairs For a friendly, kill helpful service, call J. Martin Tel: 694930 1 Alnwick, Toothill

IRE! CLASSIFIEDS Two blue bedside lamps with blue shades, £10 for pair. Pifco facial sauna, £8. Tel: 871493 Oume and Brother daisywheel printer with handbook and extras. All offers considered. Tel: 874767 Dimplex electric two bar wall fire in ex condition, £8.50. Assortment of Catherine Cookson books in clean condition from 60p each. Tel: 887651 (Sparcells) Cooker: Dual fuel, gas hob, electric oven/grill. Exc. cond. Glass lid. Dark brown. £130. Tel: 771104 Wedding Dress. Ivory, size 10. Beaded bodice with rosebud detail to sleeve and waist. Three foot train with detail. £400 ono (900 new). Tel: 873681 (Sparcells) 12" disco records and 45's. Over 1500. Ideal for DJ or collector. £250 ono. Tel: 491712 (Toothill) Qualcast electric lawnmower, £25. Goblin upright cleaner £25. Old encyclopedia set, £25. Iron bath, £10. Psionorganiser40. Tel: 850455

Foldaway double bed as new, £75. Tel: 872926 (Westlea) Folding lady's bike, 3 gear, £35 ono. Silver Cross pushchair with raincover, £40. Car seat, birth to 4yrs, £20. Double pushchair, £30. Tel: 875665 (Shaw) Commodore64computer, diskdrive 2 tape decks, 2 joysticks, games on both tape and disk, mouse, manuals, software, blank disks, tapes, vgc, £130ono. Tel: 615843 Navy Silver Cross pram with shopping tray, sun canopy etc, £60. Baby changing table/bath, £30. 2 youth beds & safety mattresses from America, as new, £100 pair or £60 each, ideal for 2-6yrs. Baby relax anyway pushchair with shopping tray & raincover, £25. Various items of boys clothes, baby-3yrs, individually priced. Tel: 874717 Ivory wedding dress, size 10, beaded bodice with rosebud detail to sleeves and waist, three foottrain with detail, £400 ono (900 new). Tel: 873681 (Sparcells)

Bedhead fits 3ft single bed, beige draylon cover, buttoned, Normans, vcg, £10, no offers please. Tel: 876583 (Shaw)

WANTED Will the lady who bought the wooden templates from me at Texas Car Boot sale on 20 June please contact me for the missing no. 7. Tel: 876067

Airmiles wanted for local person, any quantity purchased for cash. Tel: 813594 (Toothill) FOUND Kitten in Lydiard Park On Saturday 14 August two boys found a young kitten (approximately 3 months old) wandering in Lydiard Park. The kitten is tabby with streaks of ginger. Contact Sheila Mitchell on 873062 for more information

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

Tel: Name & Address (not for publication)

Local Lives Transport and road problems Karen Pender from Westlea is concerned with transport matters and is part owner of a 5637 steam engine being slowly restored outside Swindon I moved to Westlea in 1981 and was one of the first residents to live in my road. Looking around now, I believe that I am one of the few remaining original residents - most of the houses in ourroad have changed hands many times since then. West Swindon was much smaller then - it has grown enormously since we first moved here.

way interest - becoming a member of the 5637 Steam Locomotive Group. Jam interested in restoring old steam locomotives and would rather see them running,and giving people pleasure than rusting away. The other reason I became involved with the 56 was that my husband became one of the part-owners of this particular locomotive - so I

5631 STEAM LOCOMOTIVE SATES

Freshbrook Evangelical Church Worsley Road Will give YOU a warm welcome

Anglican, Methodist, U.R.C., Baptist. Toothill Church

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Rev. Rob Buries 870244 Westlea Church Rev Peter & Ruth Walker 872932 All Saints, L. Millicent Rev. John Flory 770217 There are vacancies for Ministers at Shaw Churches. Contact the church office 874221 for assistance

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For a FREE quote Both my work and my interests are closely connected with transport matters. First of all, I am currently in the process of having a book published about the design of a particular motor car, and will shortly be commencing my next work on another car model. As well as this, I am also researching the history of transport for a higher research degree. My interests include belonging to various groups and societies concerned with restoring formermeans of transport. I belong to number of classic car clubs and spend a great deal of time during the summer months going to various car rallies throughout the country. I am a member of the Tramway Museum Society atCrich in Derbyshire, which restores old tramcars, thus enabling the public to ride on them. I am also concerned with current road safety and transport matters. I am an advocate of the new light rapid transit systems which are opening in a number of British cities. As a cyclist and pedestrian,I am deeply concerned about some of the dangerous roads in West Swindon. One road in particular, Corton Crescent (where the Asda petrol station and goods loading bay is situated) is very difficult for pedestrians to cross at either end of the road because of blind bends. Finally, I am a member of the Swindon and Cricklade Railway at Blunsden. This led to another rail-

thought, if you can't beat them, join them! The 56 Class GWR locomotives were built in the 1920s at Swindon works, and were 0-6-2 type tank engines. They were used in South Wales mainly to haul heavy coal wagons. Itis hoped that5637, which is being restored at Blunsden, will be steaming again next year. In order to carry out the necessary work, however, around ,50O needs to be raised to pay for the new boiler tubes, and around £5,000 is the total estimated cost for the complete restoration of the locomotive. If anyone is interested either in joining the group by becoming a shareholder, or in giving any donations, please contact: Paul Thicke, 46 The Wilows,Highworth,SwindonSN67PH

Tel: 827494 anytime IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII

THE ODD JOB MAN Small building work, carpentry, joinery, painting & decorating, fitted wardrobes and kitchens, plugs and washers fitted "No job too small"

Very reasonable prices Free estimates Call Tony, the Odd Job Man on 0793 - 886022

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HILLIER FUNERAL SERVICE LTD. 170 Victoria Road Swindon Tel: 522797

Rev George Gibson 692620

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

The Fitting Crew Karen on the footplate of the still to be assembled steam engine

Ecumenical Parish of West Swindon & The Lydiards

252 Whitworth Road Swindon Tel: 522145

PRIVATE CHAPELS OF REST 24 hour personal service throughout the year A FAMILY BUSINESS OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE WHEN MOST NEEDED

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