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www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk 8 JANUARY 2015 ISSUE 25 Your discerning local weekly newspaper
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Suffolk Road
TRAFFIC chaos is set to reign in the town again as Severn Trent Water return for the next six weeks as they begin the next round of repairs. Severn Trent Water’s work to help prevent sewer flooding in Cheltenham started up again this week, as the company continues its £5 million investment in the town. New, larger, sewers are being laid in Suffolk Road, Roman Road, Fawley Drive and Cleeve View Road over the coming months. Paul Dennison from Severn Trent Water, explains: “We’ve come a long way since we started work back in June last year. Since then we’ve laid over a kilometre of new sewer pipes.’’ He went on to comment, “Now we’re moving back onto Suffolk Road and Roman Road, we’re also starting work on Fawley Drive and Cleeve View Road. As many will know, we had to stop our work on Suffolk Road a few months back after the ground just wouldn’t hold the pipes we were putting in.” “We anticipate our work will be completed during February, but
rest assured we’ll be doing all we can to get it done as quickly as possible. We’ll have to close the road between Andover Street and Montpellier Retreat, and we’re sorry for any inconvenience this will cause. We want to assure everyone that all businesses on Suffolk Road are open as usual.” Mr Spicer from RJ Spicer, Jewellers/Goldsmiths on Suffolk Road said, “We all know it’s got to be done. But it’s going to be at least six more weeks of noise and disruption’’. He went on to add: “My business won’t take much of a dent, but we will lose out on passing trade. The worst element is the actual noise all day with vibrations and machinery. We’re in the fine jewellery business and trying to make repairs with the road shaking is really tiresome.” He finally said: “At least we have had good communications from Severn Trent Water over the repairs. They always answer the phone for any queries, so I can’t complain too much.” In addition, the company has completed its work to divert the TURN TO PAGE TWO >
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
Cheltenham WeatherWatch THURSDAY 8th Jan Min 5ºC Max 8ºC FRIDAY 9th Jan Min 11ºC Max 13ºC SATURDAY 10th Jan Min 3ºC Max 12ºC SUNDAY 11th Jan Min 6ºC Max 7ºC MONDAY 12th Jan Min 6ºC Max 10ºC TUESDAY 13th Jan Min 4ºC Max 8ºC WEDNESDAY 14th Jan Min 5ºC Max 8ºC
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A major incident has been declared for Cheltenham General AN NHS spokesman said 30% of people using Cheltenham General’s emergency department had “non-urgent ailments.” People have been asked to consider options other than A&E, such as calling the NHS 111 helpline. It is the second time in a month the NHS Trust has declared this status in order to get extra help. Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said another factor contributing to the current problem was the high number of “elderly patients being admitted, whose needs are often more complex”. The trust’s clinical director, Dr Tom Llewellyn, said the declaration of a major incident meant “stepping up normal management levels” to deal with “an unprecedented demand.” He said the main issues included more patients who were “sicker” and a “cohort of
elderly patients with respiratory disease” which meant they stayed longer and filled beds. “This also means we have to offload some of these patients into community beds and those beds fill up. “And you can see you get a bit of a snowballing effect, whereby eventually you end up with a situation where the emergency department gets very full,” he said. Dr Llewellyn said it was a “challenging” situation and praised hospital staff for “absorbing all this pressure.” He said they would be working with the ambulance service and the community “to create more capacity” and would open up more beds in the hospital “to absorb this bulge of patients.” The declaring of a major incident means extra resources can be brought in such as specialist teams, additional staff, equipment and facilities.
MP gets first-hand experience of A&E crisis CHELTENHAM MP Martin Horwood found himself at the heart of this week’s crisis at Cheltenham General when he had to accompany an elderly relative into Cheltenham A&E at night on Saturday, only to wait more than four hours before she could be seen by a doctor. ‘She’s been referred to A&E three times in recent weeks and it’s been an eye-opening experience. This time we arrived at 10.30pm and she didn’t see a doctor until nearly three o’clock in the morning, only to discover we probably didn’t really need to be there at all. “A&E was full and there were no beds spare on medical wards either. It sounds like the same was true at Gloucestershire Royal.” Dr Helen Miller, Clinical Chair of Gloucestershire’s Clinical Commissioning Group, the GP-led body responsible for the local NHS budget, said: “It is really important to remember that hospital Emergency Departments are designed to treat serious injuries and emergencies.” “My relative probably didn’t need to be admitted,” agrees Martin. “But the CCG shouldn’t imply this is all down to patient choice. She didn’t just fancy a night waiting in A&E. She was referred there by a community-based team after phoning 111. Previously she was sent there after seeing her GP. And this is actually encouraged by Glouces-
tershire Hospitals Trust. Under their ‘Utopia’ system – the name now seems like a bad joke – they admit all unplanned referrals via A&E so of course it gets clogged up.” And he condemned the decision to remove emergency doctors from Cheltenham General at night: “The decision to downgrade Cheltenham A&E at night has made things even worse. With too many people being directed into A&E and Gloucester Royal unable to cope, Cheltenham could have played an important part in resolving this crisis. Instead, because they’ve removed the emergency doctors at night so emergency nursing staff often have to call in favours from the out-of-hours GPs based in the hospital. But they were closed as well this weekend so people ended up waiting for hours on end in A&E while nurses try to find doctors from the medical wards who will see patients in A&E.” And there are plans to remove even these out-of-hours GPs from Cheltenham too which could make matters even worse. Martin commented: “The government needs to look at why so many 111 calls end up in A&E but locally the Trust and the CCG need to look long and hard at the decisions they’ve taken and why Gloucestershire alone has had to declare two of these critical incidents in the space of a few weeks.”
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Last month, the medical director of NHS England, Sir Bruce Keogh, said the “system is creaking” as winter takes hold. In order to help, the government has increased its winter resilience funding for the NHS to £700m - 75% more than last year. ‘Major incident’ definition “Any occurrence that presents serious threat to the health of the community, disruption to the service or causes (or is likely to cause) such numbers or types of casualties as to require special arrangements to be implemented by hospitals, ambulance trusts or other acute or community provider organisations.”
More disruptions for Suffolk Road CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
existing water pipes in Roman Road and it’ll now start laying new, larger sewer pipes to help prevent flooding in the area. “We’ve also started work on Cleeve View Road, again the sewers there are too small to cope when we have heavy rain so we need to put larger pipes in. This does mean we’ll have to close Thames Road, Whaddon Road, and Severn Road, at the junction with Whaddon Road.” Severn Trent Water has also started work on the allotments off Blacksmith’s Lane in Prestbury, as part of the work in Fawley Drive to prevent flooding. This will be followed by work in Studland Drive, South View Way and Fawley Drive. Paul adds: “Again, we’re sorry for any inconvenience all of the work may cause, but we hope that people in Cheltenham can see the real benefits it will bring. We’ll be helping to prevent sewer flooding from affecting homes across the town.” NMC Nomenca will be carrying out the work on behalf of Severn Trent Water. Find out more at www.northmid.co.uk/cheltenham. For help with water or sewerage services, customers can call Severn Trent 24 hours a day on 0800 783 4444.
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8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Pothole chaos set to continue THE extent of the problem caused by the poor state of Britain's roads has been revealed in a new study which shows Gloucestershire County Council face some of the biggest backlogs of repairs. A Government announcement that local councils in England are to get a near-£6 billion fund to fight potholes over the next six years is not enough to tackle the problem, ministers have been warned. Unions representing taxi drivers and council workers said the country has a “shocking” record of investment in the roads, while the AA said the poor state of roads is the main concern for motorists. A succession of severe winters and the devastating floods earlier this year have left councils playing catch-up with road maintenance. The FOI information showed the biggest backlog of repairs in the West were in Gloucestershire (£86 million), and Swindon (£40 million). Many councils said they did not have a backlog, while some said repairs were “historic” or described the cost as bringing their road network to a defect-free standard. RAC chief engineer David Bizley said funding for potholes was welcome but there were doubts whether this was “new money”. He also said, “We also question whether this really goes far enough. Recent estimates by the Asphalt Industry Alliance suggest a one-off investment of £12 billion is needed in England
to deal with the backlog in road maintenance, the majority of which is associated with those roads for which local authorities are responsible.” Brian Strutton, national officer of the GMB union, said: “The announced money is less than half the official estimate of the investment needed to cover the backlog of road
repairs, so the public should ask why the Government is not doing more. In any event, not all councils will benefit from this announcement. The promise of future money may or may not materialise under the next government. Meanwhile, existing potholes will crack up when this winter bites, leaving roads in an unfit and dangerous state.”
Balaclava burglary in Shurdington POLICE are appealing for information following a burglary in Cheltenham on Monday 5th January 2015. At around 8pm four males wearing balaclavas forced their way into a flat in Harrison Road, Shurdington. The 48-year-old householder attempted to prevent their entry but was overcome. He was punched in the face and threatened with a large knife. He was also hit on the back of his head and sustained injuries to his wrist. The four men made a brief search of the premises and picked up the householder's mobile phone taking cash tucked inside the case. The man pleaded for the return of his phone saying he had family photos on it. The men vacated the property and left the phone in the stairwell. Police would like to hear from anyone with further information or who heard or saw anything in the area on Monday evening. Please call 101 quoting Incident No 417 of 5th January 2015.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
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Four women on police bail and one male under arrest in connection with stabbing near Brunswick Street FOLLOWING a stabbing incident that took place in the vicinity of Brunswick Street, St Pauls, Cheltenham, at about 3.15am on Thurs 01 January, four women are now on police bail until 7 April on suspicion of causing GBH. A 24-year-old male from Cheltenham was also arrested on Monday of this week on suspicion of causing GBH in connection with the same incident and remains in custody.
A male victim, aged 34, sustained a number of stab wounds and continues to receive treatment in Gloucestershire Royal Hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. Police are still appealing for anyone who believes they have information relating to this incident to call on 101 quoting Incident 175 of 01 January 2015 or crime number 0256/15.
CHALKTALK
One in nine people fear missing rent or mortgage payments THOUSANDS of rent or mortgage payers across the county might be facing a not-sohappy new year, as new research reveals one in nine are worried they will be unable to make payments this January. Research from Shelter and YouGov paints a bleak picture for many this winter, with 65% of rent or mortgage payers in the South West revealing they are already struggling to keep up with their housing costs. Shelter is warning that ignoring money worries rather than seeking advice could lead to people’s homes being put at risk. Worryingly, over a quarter (27%) of people in the region said they would feel too ashamed to ask for help if struggling with housing payments. The charity has seen a surge in the number of people visiting its website for advice on rent and mortgage arrears, and is urging anyone having difficulty meeting their housing costs to get help as early as possible. Mother-of-two Katharine works unpredictable shifts and lives in constant fear she
won’t be able to meet her rent payments each month. Katharine said: “I work every hour I can to support my family but each month I wonder if I’m going to able to make my rent, and I’m expecting things to be especially bad at Christmas, even though we cut back on spending as much as we could.’’ “I’ve borrowed money from family and even had to stop paying bills to keep the roof over my children’s heads. It’s horrible to start another year not knowing if I can afford to keep my home.” Shelter’s helpline adviser Nadeem Khan said: “Every day at Shelter we hear from people who are feeling overwhelmed by mounting rent or mortgage bills, as the increasing pressure of sky high housing costs continues to take its toll. “Many have spent a long time thinking they have nowhere to turn and are often close to breaking point by the time they come to us. If you’re in this situation, it’s so important to remember you’re not alone and that help is available. For free and independent advice from Shelter visit shelter.org.uk or call the helpline on 0808 800 4444
Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Cheltenham gets vocal...
The Lib Dems have failed Cheltenham General Hospital LIBERAL Democrat MPs have now represented Cheltenham for 23 years. In that time, despite unprecedented public money being poured into the NHS, the reality is that Cheltenham General Hospital has got worse, not better. Just a quick re-cap: in 2005, in-patient services at Battledown Children’s Ward were lost to Gloucester. Doctor-led maternity services soon followed. Paediatrics have now gone. And then, to top it all off A&E was downgraded. The bottom line is that for too long the Lib Dems have failed to ensure that Cheltenham General gets its fair share. The effect of that latest blow is now plain for all to see. It’s no coincidence, you may think that it was the Gloucestershire hospitals that were the first to declare a major incident in the A&E departments this week. I speak to medics regularly and they tell me that the Trust’s decision to downgrade Cheltenham’s A&E has put increased pressure on Cheltenham General. It creates a backlog at Gloucester at night, which staff over here then battle to unwind during the day.
The Liberal Democrats did precious little to stop this happening. All we saw was a pointless petition after the decision had been made. And that’s the stark reality: the Lib Dems are good at photo opportunities, but not at getting results. In the last eight years, the principal parliamentary achievement of the current Lib Dem MP, Martin Horwood, has been to set up the All Party Parliamentary Group on Tribal Peoples. That’s fine, and I’m sure we all wish tribal peoples well. But it’s surprising that our MP should be focusing on that when there are bigger problems closer to home. The coming year is going to be crucial for our hospital. As I have warned repeatedly, I think it likely that after the General Election the Trust will seek to remove emergency general surgery from Cheltenham altogether. That will effectively mean the end of Cheltenham as an acute hospital. Despite these warnings, the Lib Dems have done the square root of nothing to raise this as an issue. If they get back in, expect another pointless petition and another photo opp. Cheltenham deserves better.
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8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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By TODD HASLEWOOD THIS town has always had its fair share of problems with potholes. However, the Suffolk Parade has played home to a four foot sink hole, which has been unresolved by the authorities since October. The sink hole is an obvious safety hazard for the general public, with the only thing stopping people falling into it thus far has been a set of small barriers. The sink hole sits a matter of metres away from businesses such as The Retreat and Vallenders Hair Salon, and for them it has been a huge ordeal too. Jerome Herve, manager of Vallenders said: “It causes chaos at peak times. It affects the flow of traffic, the ability to take in deliveries and is a major hazard for cyclists as that is the main route from Bath Road to the Town Centre.” Local resident Clive Burling also voiced his concerns over the Council’s lack of involvement. “I’m totally amazed at the lack of attention given to this problem by the Highways Agency, everybody seems to be passing the buck. It shouldn’t take the press and all of these PHOTO: CLIVE BURLING
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Sink Hole Shame
AgonyAunt Kimberley Wall I WAS terribly impressed with one of the presents my partner got me for Christmas this year because I had dropped a couple of hints but had absolutely no idea that he had picked up on it. I really wanted Oprah Winfrey’s new book ‘What I Know for Sure’ but it was a luxury I couldn’t afford to buy myself, so as you can imagine I was thrilled to be gifted with it on Christmas Day; and it is everything I hoped it would be. It can only be described as a mixture of thoughts and insights that Oprah has collected along her life journey which she demonstrates with examples of her own personal challenges but does so without any sign of preaching. I particularly liked the metaphor Oprah used when exploring the issue of Resilience in which she states that; “No matter what challenge you may be facing, you must remember that while the canvas of your life is painted with daily experiences, behaviours, reactions and emotions, you’re the one controlling the brush… we are the artists of our own lives.” (p41) Sometimes it is easier to blame external issues or people for our state of mind than own our own feelings which is fundamental if we want to make a change. Understandably, there are situations in which we do not have complete control of the events surrounding us including the way others decide to treat us or struggling with the memories of a difficult childhood, but at the very least we can recognise that we can control our reactions to it as adults otherwise we actually become even more powerless. This was particularly illustrated in Viktor E. Frankl’s memoir ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ which is based on his experiences of surviving a Nazi concentration camp but Oprah’s words reminds us that his teachings are also relevant to all of us in everyday life.
While these words are wise, I do recognise that we are not always in the best place to absorb their meaning, especially if we are feeling low at this time of year. And if anyone feels significantly depressed I would always advise they talk to their doctor about it, Oprah also reacquaints us with the notion of gratitude which helped me a few years back when I felt low and found it hard to focus on anything other than a particularly difficult situation I had found myself in. It was introduced to me originally by Rhonda Byrne in her book ‘The Magic’ and Oprah reiterates one of Rhonda’s advised exercises which is to write a list of things you are thankful for everyday (because even in the hardest of times there will still be things we can be grateful for from the air we breathe, the gift of our eye-sight/hearing/ability to walk and/or even the possibilities or hope in the future). Doing this task enables our brain to switch focus onto the positives that also reside in our lives at times when we can feel overwhelmed with negativities or bad luck. Oprah summaries by saying that “sometimes we get so focused on the difficulty of our climb that we lose sight of being grateful for simply having a mountain to climb.” (p76) Please let me know of any advice that has inspired you in the past which you would be happy for me to share in future columns (my email address is relateglosservices@hotmail.co.uk) or if you would prefer to talk more about an issue with a Relate counsellor then please call the Gloucestershire and Swindon office on 01242 523215 to book an appointment (charges apply).
complaints to change something as dangerous and obvious as this.” After increased pressure from the locals and also the Cheltenham Standard, Gloucestershire County Council have finally agreed to fix the sink hole after three months of persuasion. Local Highways Manager Chris Riley said: “We have been out to investigate the sink hole on Suffolk Parade and we will have it fixed by the end of this week.”
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
Ex-racecourse boss awarded OBE in New Year’s Honours THE former director of Cheltenham Racecourse has been appointed OBE in the New Year's Honours list. Edward Gillespie spent 32 years steering the world-famous horse racing venue and was credited with developing the National Hunt Festival into one of Britain's greatest sporting occasions. He was given the honour for his services to horse racing in the town. Mr Gillespie said he was “surprised, honoured, privileged” and hoped it reflected the “friendliness, warmth and uniqueness” of Cheltenham. He started in the role in 1980, at the age of 27, and announced he was stepping down as managing director shortly after the 2012 Festival which attracted almost a quarter of a million spectators over the four days. “The place has grown and yet its essence and its DNA has remained the same. The Festival particularly has got longer, larger, deeper, wider and is more accessible to all sorts of different people,” he said. “I don't know a sporting event quite like it. I'm thrilled to have been a part of that and to help get it to where it is today.” A total of 13 people in Gloucestershire have been recognised in the New Year's Honours list, including Sarah Staniforth, from Cheltenham, who becomes a CBE for her services to national heritage.
Edward Gillespie OBE
Stolen trident tracked down “PLEASE can you return this to Cheltenham Borough Council, or the police. We were drunk and there was no harm meant. We’re sincerely sorry.’’ Neptune’s trident has finally been found and returned to the borough council, along with an apologetic note and a costly repair bill. Stroud police contacted the council on Monday 5th January to say the trident had been recovered from a garden in Painswick and was safe with them. An officer from the council collected it from the police and it is being stored in the Municipal Offices until it can be repaired and put back where it belongs, on the fountain. The trident, which Neptune holds in his hand atop the famous fountain in the Promenade, was first noticed missing on the morning of 21st December 2014 and after being returned to the fountain by a member of the public, was taken again sometime during the same weekend. The council issued a press release asking the public to help in finding the missing trident. Garrie Dowling, senior property surveyor, said: “The fountain is one of Cheltenham’s most
iconic landmarks so we are delighted the trident has been found safe. We’d like to thank everyone for their help in assisting with its safe return. “Although the perpetrators have apologised in their note, unfortunately they do not seem to realise the considerable repair costs of around £5k. The top fork section of the trident has come away from the staff and also Neptune will need a new arm as it was badly damaged during the removal. A stonemason will then need to put it all back together again. “We are hopeful of a repair being completed before the fountain switch-on in the spring. We will look into how we fix the trident back to negate any future attempt to remove it unlawfully.”
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Liquidation Closing Down Sale 80% Off All Remaining Stock
THE SIMMONDS FILE Christina Simmonds – Ukip Cheltenham Parliamentary candidate for 2015
Happy New Year to you all! THERE will be many in Cheltenham who will now be wondering how to cope with the bills following the Christmas celebrations. For the average person this is always a difficult time but sadly our government seems to take perverse delight in making it even more challenging; making bills bigger by the burdens placed on businesses, which inevitably pass the costs on to the consumer. Business rates, 1,139 new business regulations and directives since October 2013, new EU allergy rules impacting all restaurants cafes etc. all add up. In Cheltenham we rely heavily on leisure, tourism and small businesses. Many of our traders will be suffering negative effects which will be felt by the rest of us in higher prices, reduced employment opportunities and lower pay rises. And whilst we may choose to eat out or buy consumer goods, no such choice exists over fuel bills which are inflated by extra costs imposed by Government on energy supply companies. The coalition keeps telling us they have it sorted, both Conservative and Liberal Democrat leaders rushing
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to tell us we need more of the same. Tell that to the people I saw begging in the Promenade in freezing weather; tell that to someone who needs to use food banks to feed themselves or their family; tell that to the person at the end of their tether trying to work out how to pay their winter fuel bills. Just a tiny proportion of the “lost” billions paid for EU membership and overseas aid could transform the lives of many of our local people. The current system is not fair, it’s not right and it’s not common sense. Christina Simmonds www.ukipcheltenham.org.uk chairman@ukipcheltenham.org.uk
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Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg launches country-wide search for mental health heroes THE Deputy Prime Minister is calling on people to nominate unsung mental health heroes in their local area as part of his campaign to raise awareness of mental health problems. One in four people will experience a mental health problem this year but for many the stigma and discrimination that surrounds mental health will make it harder for them to speak out and seek the support they need. That’s why the Deputy Prime Minister is calling for nominations for local Mental
Festive fun at Sainsbury’s OUR friends at two local Sainsbury’s stores ran a competition just prior to Christmas for local children to design their own Christmas tree baubles. This festive fun was a huge success and a number of local children designed some stunning decorations. Sainsbury’s generously donated some great prizes for the young designers enabling a host of them to not go away empty handed. Our first prize winner is young Megan. Well done her!
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MP Nick Clegg
Health Heroes to celebrate those from every region - from healthcare professionals to next door neighbours - who have gone above and beyond to help, support or inspire people with mental health conditions. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “It could be the woman sitting next to you on the bus, the dad picking his child up at the school gates or a colleague from work - everyone knows someone living with a mental health problem. “I want to celebrate those who have gone that extra mile, whose passion and commitment have helped someone get through their darkest days and helped challenge the taboo around mental health which has existed for far too long. “It is my ambition to bring mental health out of the shadows and create a fairer society where people can speak up about how they feel and get the support and treatment they need to live the life that they choose.” The winning nominees will be invited to a ceremony in London on Thursday 5th February, which will mark Time to Change’s ‘Time to Talk Day’ to encourage people to speak out about mental health and spread the message that mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. If you would like to nominate someone for the Deputy Prime Minister’s Local Mental Health Hero Award, here's how you can do it: Go to gov.uk/DPM and complete the nomination form online. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 27 January 2015.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
BUSINESS Editor’sDESK
W
E’VE had a lot in the news this week about major incidents in our local hospitals. There is no doubt that our treasured NHS is under severe strain and looks like splitting apart at the seams unless we do something about it. The political remedy for this falls squarely at the inept feet of ALL our politicians. It’s very easy for the opposition to attack the present government for not doing enough, but I’ll bet you a plaster to a walking stick that any new government will not make a jot of a difference. It’s all bluster. And its dangerous behaviour as it’s not a political football. Or it shouldn’t be. It’s not about scoring points, it’s about fixing the very basic services we need in this country. The NHS is at the very forefront of society and its problems. The job they do is without doubt incredible. And we will all need their services at some point in our lives. Surely the myopic politicians and Trusts can see that if we don’t actually do something to fix the malaise then we will have no NHS and the basic right to receive medical treatment will go out the window. That’s not what this country fought for in the post WW2 years. Some of my colleagues have already highlighted the senseless drain on the system by bringing ‘wee Jonny’ into Emergency Departments with nothing more than a cold. It’s got to stop. They can’t cope with having to deal with this rubbish anymore. Also just over the Christmas and New Year just about every ED was inundated with drunks. I’ve also been informed by a credible source that young women have been admitted with cut feet as they can’t be bothered to walk in their ‘skyscraper’ high heeled shoes. That’s got to stop too. If you’re stupid enough to walk about in bare feet then you need to suffer the consequences. I would also say they if you are blind drunk, fall over and subsequently damage yourself, then if admitted to ED you should be made to pay. How dare they go out to get drunk and then expect the taxpayer and the NHS to pick up the bill? It’s all about trying to discourage these idiots from draining away the very lifeblood of this most venerable institution, just because they are unthinking and thick. It’s tantamount to selfharming and if they take that route then we should give them a whopping great invoice for the trouble. This source also tells me that every Christmas a plethora of elderly are dumped on ED’s as the families ‘can’t cope’. Hmm, so it’s just at Christmas and New Year that they can’t cope is it? Or is it they just want to go partying’ and can’t be bothered to look after their elderly? Shame on them. We need to keep the NHS and our local hospital here in Cheltenham for sick people or patients in real need. Not the drunks and scroungers. Let’s start charging them and then we’ll see the admittance rate drop. I.e. stop going to hospital for stupid or selfinflicted reasons. And if you do, bring your wallet.
Got a comment? Please contact us at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk Cheltenham Standard is published weekly by Cheltenham Standard Ltd is registered at Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Montpellier Drive, Cheltenham, GL50 1TA. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, heltenham Standard Ltd will not accept liability for loss or damage. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor publisher accepts responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. All rights reserved. ISSN no. 2055-2092. Terms and conditions at www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk
Brewin Dolphin reflect on some surprises from 2014 GUY Foster, Group Head of Research at Brewin Dolphin said: “2014 has been a year of change and the sheer fall of oil and iron ore prices, the collapse in Russia’s fortunes and Tesco’s accounting irregularities have surprised us all.” Gilts Few anticipated that there would continue to be so many buyers of bonds Guy Foster
relative to other asset classes. Investors seem unperturbed and unconstrained by the poor returns on offer, with historically low yields and still falling. Russia Russia’s status collapsed as it went from host of the Winter Olympics, which celebrates international sportsmanship, to global pariah. Russia’s fall from grace has undone a decade of economic reform and returned her long suffering people to face their seemingly terminal fate of high inflation and low growth.
Local Tory urges local businesses to bid for rate relief Tory Parliamentary Candidate for Cheltenham Alex Chalk is calling on local businesses to bid for unclaimed business rate relief. Prospective Conservative MP Alex Chalk is reminding Cheltenham's small businesses that they may be entitled for a discount on their business rates. Recent data released by Cheltenham Borough Council under a Freedom of Information request showed that over 500 local businesses who are not currently receiving a discount on their business rates may be eligible for small business rate relief. Companies can apply for Small Business Rate Relief if their property's rateable value is less than £12,000 and they only use one property. Alex Chalk said: “This recent data shows that over 500 premises in Cheltenham have a rateable value of less than £12,000, but are not currently claiming a discount on their business rates. I hope this news will encourage traders who think they might fall into this category to get in touch with the Council and check if they're eligible. In some cases the rates discount may even be able to be back-dated. Business rates make up a significant chunk of businesses operating costs, so any potential discount could make a big difference.”
Tesco Whilst a decline in sales performance by the major supermarkets was expected in the wake of rapid gains by Aldi and Lidl, the magnitude of the decline and the significant impact on profitability of Tesco in particular took the market by surprise. The discovery of accounting irregularities shocked everyone and compounded the issue.
Standard Chartered An organisation that was once a beacon of probity has truly stalled beset by three profit warnings, growth challenges and credit woes. The Budget George Osborne’s surprise Spring Budget announcement certainly caught the life insurers on the back foot. Many are attempting to adjust their business models in time for April next year when the main changes take place. Retirees will be able to draw as much of their pension as they wish at their marginal rate of tax after taking their 25% tax-free lump sum. We continue to like those companies which were well placed going into the reforms and those which have the versatility to weather the changes. And finally… iron ore We were not surprised by the direction; however the sheer magnitude of the falls in iron ore prices were rather astonishing. Supply growth was better than expected while demand growth was lacking, resulting in a larger surplus than we and the market were forecasting for 2014.
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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BUSINESS Winston’s Wish SWITCH programme strengthened WINSTON’S Wish, the leading childhood bereavement charity in the UK, is delighted to strengthen its SWITCH programme with the recruitment of Family Services Lead, Sheila Elliott. Funded by the Big Lottery Fund, SWITCH is a targeted bereavement support service for children aged 8 to 14 who are bereaved of a parent/carer, grandparent or sibling and who are experiencing difficulties at school, with relationships; or with managing their
behaviour. Sheila joins the Winston’s Wish team as Family Services Lead for SWITCH, bringing a wealth of experience in child care to the organisation. Originally from Gloucestershire, Sheila now lives in East Sussex and is based in the Winston’s Wish Horsham office, in West Sussex. Sheila is keen to get started in her new role at Winston’s Wish, commenting:
New trainees and paralegals as Knights continues to grow NATIONAL professional services firm Knights, which has an office in Cheltenham, continues to grow with the promotion of seven paralegals to trainee solicitor status, taking the firm’s trainee intake up to 15. The 15, who have been recruited within the last 18 months from the firm’s talented paralegal ranks, are based across the firm’s offices in Cheltenham, Chester and Newcastle under Lyme. The latest seven trainees will begin their 18-month training contract in March 2015. Mark Whitehouse, employment partner at Knights, said: “This is all part of our continued commitment to nurturing hard work and talent. It is our responsibility to provide an environment and culture where all of our team can thrive, excel and fulfil their legal careers, irrespective of level.” Knights has in addition recruited 13 new paralegals across all offices further underlining the firm’s commitment to growing and developing the next generation of the firm’s
lawyers. “By working hard and demonstrating their commitment and team ethic, paralegals at Knights know there is the opportunity to earn a training contract with the firm,” he added. David Beech CEO of Knights said: “Our paralegals and junior lawyers not only represent the future of both our firm and the legal profession but also play a vital role in how we offer clients the best solution to their legal needs. They are a vital component to our business.” Knights, which has doubled turnover over the last two years, has an ambitious expansion strategy, and has hired an average of just over one professional a week over the past 12 months. “The firm has grown fee income from its top five clients by 41% through more collective working practices aided by our open plan office layout which allows individuals to work together seamlessly,” added David.
“I’m really looking forward to supporting the successful running of the SWITCH programme and taking it forward using my previous knowledge and experience. It’s really important for Winston’s Wish to expand its successful SWITCH strategy so we can continue to support as many bereaved children as possible. “SWITCH makes a real difference in how these young people manage bereavement, and consequently how they cope with other contributing emotional factors and problems.” SWITCH supports children, helping them to build a more positive future and to avoid pathways into offending. The SWITCH model sits beneath the umbrella of the Winston’s Wish core intervention programme and philosophy, supporting children and young people within the context of the family, through a group process. Sheila has spent 26 years in a local authority role as a social worker, supporting children with physical and learning difficulties. Most recently, Sheila held the position of Practice Manager; Children Leaving Care (care-leavers between 16 and 20years-old).
Sheila Elliott
Che ltenham Sp a Skip Hire
Knights CEO David Beech
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
HEALTH&LIFESTYLE THIS week Gloucestershire hospitals has made national news by declaring a ‘Major Incident’ due to the high demands made within their Emergency Departments (ED). By declaring a Major Incident Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Trust can be given extra resources such as staff, equipment, and even specialist teams to help alleviate the pressure. I’ve worked as a nurse in ED and have witnessed first-hand the number of people who opt to come to the ED, when a trip to the GP or a call to the ‘Out of Hours’ would have sufficed. In my experience, weekends predominantly consisted of members of the public who had caused themselves injury during some sports activity (by day) or whilst under the influence, or due to an altercation with another whilst under the influence (by night). What a tragic waste of time for nursing staff who could be on hand for that cardiac arrest, road traffic accident or being brought in by ambulance. Then there’s the seriously unwell patient coming in to ED presenting with breathing problems, chest pain, a bleed or maybe a fracture of some kind. I’ve also witnessed over-anxious parents bringing their ill child through the doors of ED because of a fever and lack of appetite. I am a parent, and if I were in any doubt about my children’s health out of hours I would visit ED myself, but not before contacting the NHS Helpline by telephoning 111. However, I would hope that common sense would prevail and I would realise the difference between a life threatening condition (I would be calling 999) and a bug which can be managed (even if not pleasantly) until the next day when I can contact my GP. I would also hope that if a
HealthMatters Your essential guide to staying healthy and enjoying the best life has to offer By NATALIE NEALE
INCIDENTALLY MAJOR condition was worsening throughout the day that I would contact my GP before considering the Emergency Department or leaving it to the point where out of hours ED was my only option. There’s an assumption that a minority of the general public exercise some common sense before entering ED, so that the numbers of attendances for nonemergency ailments are significantly reduced – will that help with the current lack of beds available at Cheltenham General and Gloucester Royal hospitals? Here is how it works. Once a patient is admitted into ED, they’re on a ‘4 hour rule’. This target was set by the Department of Health meaning that 95% of patients attending ED need to be admitted, treated or discharged within 4 hours of admission before the Trust incurs a fine. If the patient is admitted, a bed has to be found and even when a hospital is full to capacity. By declaring a ‘Major Incident’, where able, patients that no longer require acute medical treatment or management can be moved to appropriate care in the
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community thus freeing up beds for acutely unwell patients coming through ED. It’s so disappointing to see BBC and ITV news vans parked outside the hospital just to focus on negatives of Gloucestershire NHS Hospitals. Where were they when I went back to the wards to help with IV’s at 4am having only got home at 2am? Or recognising other colleagues that have gone that extra mile to provide outstanding patient care? Please think before going to ED. This time of year is recognised as being one of the busiest for any hospital so consider help from the following number: NHS Helpline (previously NHS Direct) 111 or Gloucestershire out of hours dentistry 0845 422 0505.
Complimentary 1:1 Appointments with Mr Warr Saturday 24th January from 10am (at the hospital) Mr. Warr MBBS, MD, FRCS (Plast) is consultant plastic surgeon working at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital. Having trained in Paris and London his particular cosmetic interests lie in nose reshaping, breast surgery and body contouring. An expert in tailoring treatments to the needs of his patients, he is renowned for his attention to detail. If you are thinking of having cosmetic surgery then why not get complimentary expert advice from Mr Rob Warr. He can talk to you about a range of cosmetic procedures including; breast enlargement; breast reduction; breast uplift; tummy tuck; facelift; eye lid reshaping; nose reshaping and liposuction.
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8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
PLANS FOR 2015 THE New Year is off to a busy start with a number of important events and consultations taking place, some of which will help shape the future of our town. On Thursday January 15th 2015 Gloucestershire County Council’s Traffic Regulation Committee will be meeting at Cheltenham Town Hall (10am start) to discuss the ‘Cheltenham Transport Plan’. The Plan proposes changes at Boots Corner, which will see private vehicles banned but taxis and buses allowed through, along with a number of other significant changes to the road network in the town. The final decision doesn’t rest with this committee, I am told this lies with the cabinet of the County Council. Before the final decision is made by the County cabinet, the Borough Council, who have been the driving force behind the proposals, will be holding an extraordinary meeting on Monday 26th January at 6pm to discuss the outcome of the meeting of the Traffic Regulation Order Committee. The Borough
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Soapbox By COUNCILLOR KLARA SUDBURY Council need to give a view as to whether or not they want the County Council to proceed with The Plan in light of the large number of objections received during the Traffic Regulation Order consultation. Cheltenham Borough Council is currently consulting on its budget for 2015-16 and I would particularly encourage you to take a look and get involved this year. As well as the consultation on the revenue budget, the council also wants to hear your views on how it should spend the substantial capital reserve it has built up since the sale of the North Place and Portland Street sites. The sale of these two key town centre sites represent a once in a lifetime opportunity to change Cheltenham for the better. Suggestions for what this money could be spent on have come from councillors, council officers and the Cheltenham Trust and the council is now asking residents to give their top three preferences. One of the options is the public realm improvements at Boots Corner which the Borough Council has linked with the aforementioned Cheltenham Transport Plan. In my opinion the whole of the High Street could do with some TLC not just Boots Corner, it is all starting to look pretty tired.
Improving our High Street must be a priority but not one that is dependent on whether the plans to change our road network including Boots Corner go ahead. The responsibility for the maintenance of the road surface and paving along the High Street rests with the County Council and it is grating that they have allowed it to fall into such an unloved state. However, the Borough is able to contribute money to get a higher spec finish as they have already done with the recent Promenade repaving and with not quite such great results outside M&S. Other choices include improving the play area in Pittville Park, investment in the Town Hall, improvements to car parking and signage, investment in renewable energy and relocating the council from the Municipal offices to somewhere else. The consultation continues until Monday 26 January 2015. If you want to read more about the budget and have your say please have a look on the Borough Councils’ website at http://www.cheltenham.gov.uk/budget.
On a final note, before Christmas the lap dancing club on Bath Road applied to renew is license. The Borough Council recently amended its’ relevant ‘Sexual Entertainment Venue’ licensing policy, and this club is now in an area of the town where a limit has been set on the number of such premises and that limit is zero. However, there are other considerations that licensing committee will possibly need to bear in mind so it is not certain that the application will be rejected.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 DECEMBER 2015
CULTURE BOUNCERS
John Godber’s smash hit comedy returns to The Everyman
Four girls out to have fun, four boys out to pull girls, four men who have seen it all before! Bouncers is classic comedy, guaranteed to chase away those January blues!... Lucky Eric, Judd, Les and Ralph are the original men in black as they tell the tale of one night in a Yorkshire disco in the 80s in this outrageous parody of Saturday Night Fever! All the
gang are out on the town, the boys, the girls, the cheesy DJ, the late night kebab man and the taxi home, all under the watchful eyes of the Bouncers. Bouncers has been performed all over the world and is a multi awardwinning play written and directed by John Godber and featuring a frightening array of Northern talent. John Godber is one of the UK’s most performed contemporary playwrights and his other hits include April in Paris; Teechers; Screaming Blue Murder; Up ‘N Under; Perfect Pitch and most recently Crown Prince. He has written extensively for television and film and was for many years Artistic Director of the acclaimed Hull Truck Theatre Company. BOUNCERS Wednesday 21st – Saturday 24th January 2015 Eves: Wed – Fri 7.45pm, Sat 8pm Mats: Thu 2pm & Fri 5pm Tickets: £13 – £28 available from the Box Office on 01242 572573 or online at www.everymantheatre.org.uk
Wednesday 14th January Bayshill Pub Big Acoustic Night A monthly acoustic night hosted by The Drawing of the Three. This will be a special evening with Stressechoes playing and releasing hard copies of their new CD, ‘Distractions’ Music starts at 8pm, it’s FREE ENTRY and food is served in a chilled out and friendly atmosphere. Support comes in the form of Dan Vickers, Damon Thomas and hosts The Drawing of the Three.
9:30pm – Stressechoes The main event – local favourites Stressechoes have a new CD ‘Distractions’ and will be performing songs from it, along with exceptional stories and awkward banter!
The Drawing of the Three
8pm – Dan Vickers Dan spent the last two years travelling the world, writing and playing in many countries. Very relaxed, soothing and percussion style guitar, with a haunting voice and deep lyrics. Influences are Ben Howard, Benjamin Francis Leftwhich and Son House.
10:15pm – The Drawing of the Three Hosts The Drawing of the Three will close the night with acoustic versions of tracks from their album Broken Walls, with a cover or two thrown in! Melodic indie acousticness.
8:45pm – Damon T Damon is well known on the local scene, and always goes down a storm. Think deep down dirty acoustic blues, lots of slide and a voice to match. Not to be missed!
The Bayshill Pub Cheltenham. Time: 8pm. FREE ENTRY Facebook: www.facebook.com/ events/1496732863940290 www.drawingofthethree.co.uk/gigs
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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CULTURE
THE LIVE LINE UPS DO YOU have a New Year's resolution? Maybe it's to eat more healthily and join a gym? Or perhaps quit your job and go backpacking around the world? Or, if you're an aspiring bedroom musician, it might be to perform your songs in front of an audience for the very first time. If it's the last one then getting out there and performing in front of people can be a daunting task. Luckily for you, there is a whole host of regular Open Mic nights in Cheltenham that welcome new performers. Whether you've got your own songs or cover someone else’s, or if you play guitar, bass, drums or the triangle it really doesn't matter. Take a look at our Open Mic guide and make it your New Year's resolution to try out your musical talents at one of these. Don't forget to get there early and put your name down on the list - don't be shy! The Cotswold Inn boasts of being Cheltenham's longest running Open Mics. Every Sunday from 9pm performers are welcome to show off their skills. All genres and abilities are welcomed and as an added incentive each musician receives a free drink for their troubles. Similarly, The Restoration's weekly Open Mic event takes place every Thursday. A welcoming environment for performers, the Restoration Open Mic starts at 9pm and is open to all abilities and anyone who want to play solo, with a band or just to jam along with others. Instruments and a full PA are provided.
The St Paul's Tavern holds two Open Mic nights each week. Every Tuesday is an acoustic & percussion based evening hosted by Jemma Swales and PechePeach. On a Thursday there is a full band Open Mic run by Gaf Franks-Bayntun which has been running for 6 years. These nights are very popular and performers are encouraged to get in touch beforehand if they'd like to play. Finally, two new monthly Open Mic nights are beginning to find their feet in the town. On the last Wednesday of every month Right Nice host a relaxed evening
War film arrives in Cheltenham THE critically acclaimed feature film, Kajaki. The true story has just been taken on by the Cineworld chain, and due to overwhelming popular demand, Cheltenham has been selected as one of the sites where it will be shown from this Sunday 11th January. The film has received five star reviews from many critics. It has been described as “Courageous and astonishing,” “The British Hurt Locker” and Jeremy Clarkson recently said “It may well be the best war film ever made.” Kajaki is unique and depicts a real incident that happened to British soldiers in Afghanistan with 10% of the profits being donated to military charities, including Help for Heroes, The Royal British Legion and Walking with the Wounded.
at The Feathered Fish from 7.30pm. Acts are asked to get down early to put their name on the chalkboard to secure their slot to perform. And The Maple Leaf Bar & Grill are trying their hand at holding a regular night from January. Experienced host Johnny Duff and his band, Reloaded will be there on the fourth Thursday of every month beginning on January 22nd from 8.30pm. For more local music news visit Behind The Scene Gloucestershire www.facebook.com/ behindthesceneglos
Book The Life I Left Behind By Colette McBeth REVIEW By EVE SEYMOUR EVE is dead. Not me, you understand, but a central character in Colette McBeth’s classy psychological thriller, ‘The Life I Left Behind.’ While lingering in limbo between life and death, Eve narrates the story leading up to her murder. Before she can be released into eternity, she has something she needs to do: warn Melody, a woman attacked six years previously that she remains in grave danger. You may wonder how Eve, in her ethereal state, can possibly do this. More easily than you’d think for Eve was working to clear the name of David Alden, the man convicted of the attack on Melody. By charting the mistakes the police made, Eve uncovers the truth, at the cost of her life. It’s a brave writer who imagines a
hereafter in which a murder victim watches life on earth taking place without them. Alice Sebold carried this off in ‘The Lovely Bones’ and yet McBeth brings something original and fresh to the table. Connecting the dead with the living, the story unfolds through two main viewpoints: Eve’s and Melody’s. Expert in charting emotional responses to traumatic life-events, McBeth lays bare in raw detail the impact of murder on those left behind. And this is where McBeth really displays her talent for strong characterisation. Following the attack that left her in a coma, Melody has transformed from a confident, happy individual to a woman unable to work, who obsesses about exercise and is trapped between pretending that she is all right when inside she’s a mess of misery. It strikes a disturbingly
authentic note. Despite being dead, Eve doesn’t escape McBeth’s fine psychological insights: ‘Oxygen, carbon and hydrogen were the biggest components in my human body, but after I died I consisted almost entirely of anger, agony and longing.’ Her narrative shrieks of a life cut off in its prime with all the injustice that encompasses. There are great books, fiendishly clever and compelling books. Rarely do you get all three elements meshed together with such style. You do here. ‘The Life I Left Behind’ is published by Headline. Eve Seymour is a freelance writing coach and the author of seven crime fiction novels. Beautiful Losers will be published by US publisher Midnight Ink early 2016. To see more details of her work visit www.evseymour.co.uk
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
QUIRKY NEWS
SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT...
A selection of the strangest stories from around the globe
KNIFE NUTTER DRIVES FOR TWO HOURS A BRAZILIAN man drove more than two hours to hospital with a knife sticking out of his head after being stabbed at a party. The 30cm-long blade narrowly missed Juacelo Nunes’ left eye and passed through his mouth into the right side of his jaw, the G1 news website reported. “The knife passed through several nerves and veins, structures that can quickly kill a patient” Gilberto Albuquerque, the director of the hospital in Teresina, said. The knife was removed and given to police who are investigating the attack, the doctor told G1. He added that the 39-year-old was recovering surprisingly well. Mr Nunes also suffered two knife wounds to his throat, shoulder and chest when he was stabbed after an argument at the party in Agua Branca, more than 60 miles from Teresina, in northeastern Piaui state. The motorcycle taxi driver said he got into a dispute with a man who then called
Farage – best bum of the year? A TWITTER campaign is putting forward UKIP leader Nigel Farage for the Rear of the Year award. It comes after the politician was named Briton of the Year by the Times newspaper this week. The Rear of the Year contest, which counts Rachel Stevens and Anton du Beke as previous winners, celebrates the ‘most stylish and fashionable celebrity rears’. And although this year’s winners have already been named as former winner Carol Vorderman and Olly Murs, Twitter users are calling for Mr Farage to be given the accolade. Unfortunately for the UKIP leader, his backers - almost without exception - say he has earned their vote because they think “he’s an a**e”.
three others to attack him. “I did not see the moment of the stabbing, but at no time fainted and remained conscious even with pain,” he said. “I thought I would die and only came to believe when I saw what happened to me, because if someone told me I would not
have believed it.” Mr Nunes’ wife said she was shocked when she saw him with the knife in his skull. “I did not believe when I saw my husband like that,” Francisca Pereira said. “I thought he was going to die. It was a miracle.”
VENTING SPLEEN… Local man about town, Tom Thurlow lets loose
C
hannel 4’s ‘Come Dine with Me’ hasn’t failed to disappoint once again as it puts on another display of raw, car-crash telly and this week’s broadcast is especially worthy of a write-up as the cameras have descended into Cheltenham and our surrounding areas. The cast this week includes a chap who walks round his gaff stark naked, Miss Cheltenham, a lady who hates Miss Cheltenham and two others who don’t really do much. Come Dine with Me is a very simple concept. You bring together five people from varying backgrounds and hopefully at least a few of them are going to clash. The food is irrelevant and just a cover to get the contestants to go to each other’s homes for the jealousy, prying and drama to ensue. In its 31st series, it’s certainly not a format to be scoffed at. It brings in the viewers for
Channel 4 and they’ve got a formula that has been perfected so beautifully I doubt even television supremo Simon Cowell would fault it. Sophie Lydia Smith (aka Miss Cheltenham) is without doubt this week’s star. The show has lauded her up as our town’s saviour with a compilation of cringeworthy clips which include; Sophie parading up The Promenade offering the royal wave to any unsuspecting member of the public that’ll take it, greeting children on the street, and even telling one girl that she may become ‘Miss Cheltenham’ one day. Not quite Miss World but yeah, guess it’ll do? I do admire what the 24year old has achieved. She appears to be doing very well in her career as
a surveyor, has won a beauty pageant and campaigns for good causes on a regular basis (marathons, ambassador positions). Sophie’s accomplishments are impressive for her age and not many could match it. However, she does harp on about being Miss Cheltenham quite a lot. And it’s this reason why fellow contestant Carmel has taken an immediate dislike to the blonde.
Cynical Carmel has concluded that nice girl Sophie uses her position to further her own career and her own image. I wouldn’t even say Carmel is far wrong. But I also wouldn’t say that this is a problem, I’d say good on her. She’s clearly smart enough based on the success she’s enjoying in her career and for the sheer amount of coverage she gets in the local press. She’s quite the PR guru. I also imagine she’s the type of girl who’s approachable, easy to
get on with and who displays impeccable manners. But why do I still enjoy watching a perfectly nice girl get bullied on TV? The show thrives on bitching and it’s because of this we love to watch people ridicule and berate each other. If anyone says they’re watching it for the chocolate soufflé they’re an awful liar.
Get more of Tom’s insights by following him on Twitter @thurlow
The views, opinions and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these articles are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of The Cheltenham Standard
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
15
MOUSE DELAYS FLIGHT
CoffeeBreak
A MOUSE delayed a Qatar Airways flight from Madrid to Doha for more than six hours after the tiny mammal was spotted in the cabin. The rodent was spied upon landing, running down the aisle of the plane, causing alarm among passengers. The entire cabin had to be fumigated causing a delay of more than six hours for passengers waiting to board at Madrid’s Adolfo Suarez Barajas airport. The mouse’s body was found shortly after the fumigation process but passengers had to wait until the fumes had completely cleared before they were allowed to board. Passengers missed connections to Thailand, Singapore and Bali because of the tiny animal. The company has said it will pay any of the costs incurred as a result of the delay.
Your Weekly HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 20 – April 18): Helping those who can’t help themselves is second nature to you. You also know that what you do today will come back to reward (or haunt) you later. TAURUS (April 19 – May 19): It’s funny how you fought changes every step of the way only to realize they were working in your best interests all along. Next time you won’t be so stubborn. GEMINI (May 20 – June 20): You’re shedding old habits, beliefs, and obligations like a layer of dry skin. Think of it as psychic exfoliation. CANCER (June 21 – July 21): Now that you’ve committed to that forward direction, there will be no slowing you down. You’re making the switch from immoveable object to unstoppable force.
Stick insects nicked by cops A NORTH Yorkshire woman called the police after her ex-partner gave their children some stick insects for Christmas. The woman’s call has prompted police to remind the public to call only in genuine emergencies, reports the Northern Echo. Paul Richardson, deployment manager with North Yorkshire Police force control room, said: “We had a call from a woman in York who had a domestic split with her partner. “He had bought the children some stick insects and a glass container, and he returned the children with the container. “Neither of them wanted the insects, so she asked if she could bring them to the police station and leave them with us.
StandOKU!
“I think she was surprised when we said ‘no’. People think we have this endless resource that we can deal with any issue whatsoever. She was left with some advice about what police can and can’t do.” Police saw the funny side of her request, but Mr Richardson said there was a serious side to the call, as it took an operator away from being available to genuine emergency calls. “It happens all the time. My colleague was straight out of training and her eyes were wide open - she said you won’t believe what I’ve just dealt with,” he added.
1
2
3
4
LEO (July 22 – Aug 21): You said you’d move on if
Word Ladder Convert the word at the top of the ladder into the word at the bottom of it, using only the four steps in between. Every word must be a valid four letter word.
5
6
7
Difficulty rating: Moderate
7 4
8 5 2 9 3 3 6 3 7 1 9 6 1 4 8 7 5 2 8 4 2 7 8 1 1 2 4 6 7 3 9
TARGET
D R P S O A M W E
Make as many words of four letters or more as you can. Each word must contain the center letter and each letter must only be used once. Target: 20 words good; 35 very good; 40+ excellent.
8 9
10
11
13
12
14
15
16
18
19
20
22
17
21
23
Last week’s solutions (30th December 2014): Across: 1 Dressy; 4 Odious; 9 An eye for an eye; 10 Outcrop; 11 Ovine; 12 Wince; 14 Anode; 18 Uncle; 19 Settler; 21 Stop-press news; 22 Taking; 23 Beaten. Down: 1 Dragon; 2 Electric clock; 3 Shear; 5 Dragoon; 6 Overindulgent; 7 Sweden; 8 Coypu; 13 Cheapen; 15 Gusset; 16 Askew; 17 Prison; 20 Taste.
a relationship became more trouble than it’s worth. Well the moment of truth has arrived. If you’re happy: fine. If not? VIRGO (Aug 22 – Sept 21): It’s touchy discussing money with loved ones, but business is business. Make it all about the math and you’ll do fine. LIBRA (Sept 22 – Oct 22): It’s unwise to confront someone who has the upper hand. However you can take advantage of his/her overconfidence to turn the tables. SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21): You struggled to hook a prize catch but now that you see it you realize you don’t want it. Don’t fret. Plenty of fish get tossed back into the sea. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 20): Good things come to you through others, but make sure that there aren’t so
many strings attached that they choke off what’s supposed to benefit you. CAPRICORN (Dec 21 – Jan 18): Take another look at what’s being offered. Yes, it’s not what you had hoped for, but it isn’t exactly shabby either. AQUARIUS (Jan 19 – Feb 17): What do you say to a friend who keeps asking for favors no matter what you do? The word you’re looking for is "no." PISCES (Feb 18 – March 19): You agonized over a tough decision, but it looks like circumstances have already decided things for you. Take yourself off the hook.
TAKE
TEAS
TEST
CAKE
CRYPTIC Crossword ACROSS 1. The spirit of the Netherlands (8) 5. The monster is spilling gore (4) 9. A song from Maria Callas (4) 10. Huge deficit in fuel (8) 11. Drive back the returning leper (5) 12. Harps on about these children (7) 13. Cooking toast in Wogan's cars (7-6) 18. Means to say it's a long time (8) 19. Records of wood (4) 20. The innocence of Botham going back to check the England opener (7) 21. Where you might see a horse running? (5) 22. It's said to stun for a long time (4) 23. A writer from Shetland? (8)
DOWN 1. Present requiring electricity? (7) 3. Closest Eastern resort (7) 4. It is one to join together a statement (13) 6. Postage changes for the German secret police (7) 7. Joins up tinsel somehow before the end of Christmas (7) 8. The band goes to Los Angeles for a game (6) 13. Marked instead, perhaps (7) 14. It can be used up any time (7) 15. Is the first murder victim a girl? (6) 16. Celebration held by a knight (7) 17. I.e. ring a cook in Africa (7)
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
TELEVISION Your one-stop guide to the best tv over the four-day ‘weekend’
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
PROPERTY&HOME
PROPERTY ADVICE
The tops tips for draught-proofing your home 1. Fit special weather stripping tape to make windows less draughty. Weather stripping (typically self-adhesive foam tape) helps to fill the gap between the frame and the moving part of the window. The same tape can be used on exterior doors. Bear in mind though, original sash windows are notoriously draughty, and you may prefer to get a pro to draught-proof and refurbish them more thoroughly.
time of year, fit a curtain pole above an exterior door and hang a heavy curtain across it, especially if the door is partially or fully glazed.
2. Minimise draughts at the bottom of an exterior door with a brush-style strip - simply cut it to fit and screw it in place, but don't fit it too low or it will drag on the floor. Exterior doors should also be fitted with keyhole and letterbox covers to stop cold air coming in.
5. Chimneys can be a source of draughts, so if you have an unused fireplace, get the chimney capped on the roof (by a roofer) and fit a chimney balloon, which inflates inside the chimney to keep warm air in the room and block cold air coming down the chimney - just make sure you remove the balloon before using the fireplace.
3. For extra insulation at this
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Occupying a plot with pleasant grounds to all sides the property offers double glazing and has a low emissions Daikin Air Source Heat Pump central heating system & solar panels. Living room and separate dining room both with Southerly aspect, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, office and study, family bathroom and FOUR DOUBLE BEDROOMS, master suite with dressing room & en-suite. Double garage. (EPC-D) NO CHAIN
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Entrance hall, living room/dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom & separate wc.
Entrance hall, living room, very appealing kitchen/dining room, downstairs cloakroom, three bedrooms and a bathroom.
A semi-detached house in need of some updating but in our view has the feeling of a non-estate property being located at the “top” of Beeches Road without through traffic.
This is a newly modernised DETACHED HOUSE with new gas central heating, upgraded double glazing, and new carpets/flooring.
Partial gas central heating, double glazing, parking and garage, together with pleasant gardens. (awaiting EPC)
Also with off road parking, garden to front and good size garden to rear with a large “workshop”. (EPC-F - not upgraded)
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
PROPERTY ADVICE
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The bedroom haven WITH spring on the horizon (almost!), and designers launching their latest bed linen collections, there couldn’t be a better time to give your bedroom a little bit of love and attention. After all, it’s the most intimate room in the house, where we go to unwind and relax and, if we’re lucky enough, where we spend a third of our lives sleeping. A haven of tranquillity with plenty of scope for personal touches, simple pleasures such as soft cotton sheets, a boudoir cushion and a throw can evoke a feeling of wellbeing, enhance your space, and be an open invitation to come to bed. “For a fresh, elegant look for spring bedrooms, white or champagne tones are timeless, romantic and naturally calming, making the perfect antidote to a busy day,” says Julie Hall, head of design at Bedeck.
“As in fashion, the addition of stylish accessories can give the bedroom personality, while layering the bed will create the complete effect.” Indeed, scattering softly-coloured decorative cushions and a beautiful throw at the bottom of the bed for a neutral but textured look, adds interest without overwhelming the scheme. And if you can’t resist decorative details for a more luxurious feel, delicate lace borders, embroidery, seersucker, or a subtle floral pattern in a muted colour palette are right on trend for 2015. “The most important thing about your bedroom is that it reflects your personal style and taste; it has to be a place that you want to be. Whether you share or have the room all to yourself, make it your favourite place to relax,” advises Molly Freshwater, Secret Linen Store founder.
CRIPPS OPEN DAY JANUARY 18TH 2015, 10AM TO 5 PM. Cripps Kitchen is excited to announce the first ever Cripps Open Day at both Cripps Barn and Cripps Stone Barn. With photographers, florists, hair and makeup experts, videographers, musicians and magicians – this Open Day will also be the perfect place to meet local suppliers weddings or special occasions. Simply drop in or book a tour of the barns with a Personal Wedding Coordinator on 01285 721900.
Cripps Barn Fosscross Lane Cirencester GL7 5BA
Cripps Stone Barn Nr. Upper Windrush Cheltenham GL54 3RF
enquiries@crippskitchen.co.uk www.crippskitchen.co.uk 01285 721900
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
23
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Ladies’ lunches and shopping events at Whatley Manor Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa is the privately owned 23-bedroom Cotswold country manor house hotel tucked away in the heart of the beautiful Wiltshire countryside Thursday 26th February 2015 – moloh – an introduction to a British fashion brand Caroline Smiley, moloh’s founder and creative director, will give guests a ‘behind the scenes’ insight into the making and manufacturing of a spring and winter collection. Caroline’s engaging and humorous talk will touch upon her travels to source particular fabrics, experiences from the early days of launching moloh ten years ago, and what it means to run a successful British fashion brand today. After the talk, guests can enjoy a glass of champagne whilst browsing the moloh collection in the gallery rooms. Guests are invited to try on clothing and enjoy shopping after lunch from around 1.45pm. £45 includes tea, coffee and biscuits served from 10.30am, Caroline’s talk from 11am, a glass of champagne and viewing of the moloh collection from 12 noon. A twocourse lunch will be served at 12.30pm in Le Mazot brasserie with a glass of wine, followed by coffee.
Thursday 12th March 2015 – ‘Unique Treasures & Antique Chic’ with Corrigan Jewellery Discover the rare beauty of fine antique and vintage jewellery with Paul Corrigan as he gives guests an insight into the glamourous world of fine jewellery from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco era. Using carefully selected pieces to showcase the presentation, he will demonstrate how each piece has its own unique story and provenance. Paul will also share his tips on what to look for when buying antique and vintage jewellery at auction and the considerations of ownership. After lunch guests are invited to try on some of the beautiful jewellery. Exclusive offers on selected pieces will be available on the day for those wishing to make a purchase. £45 includes tea, coffee and biscuits served on arrival from 10.30am. Paul’s presentation will start at 11.00am, with a glass of champagne and viewing of the Corrigan collection from 12 noon. At 12.30pm a two-course lunch with a glass of wine will be served in Le Mazot brasserie followed by coffee. Special Events Room Rates start from £250 per room for those attending either of these special events at Whatley Manor: To book call Events on 01666 834 026 or email events@whatleymanor.com
Burns Night Celebration at Whatley Manor with Gordon & Macphail
20th January 2015 Piper, Bob MacNaught will entertain guests with traditional Scottish music and poems during the evening. Start the evening in the Drawing Room with a glass of Deutz champagne or try our special Burn’s night whisky cocktail before entering the magical world of Gordon & MacPhail presented in our private cinema followed by the ‘Burns Supper’ served in The Dining Room and created by Michelin-starred chef, Martin Burge. Carefully selected Whiskies from the Gordon & MacPhail portfolio will be served throughout supper and to address the Haggis. Wine will be served with the starter and the main course. The dress code is black tie or traditional Scottish attire. Champagne and canapé reception in the Drawing Room from 6.30pm £105 includes an aperitif and canapé reception, four-course set menu, a selection of Whiskies, wine, coffee and shortbread Special Event Room Rate applies. Rooms from £250 including English breakfast and full use of the spa facilities.
To book call Events on 01666 834 026 or email events@whatleymanor.com
Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa Easton Grey Malmesbury Wiltshire SN16 0RB Web whatleymanor.com @Whatley_Manor
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
MOTORING
best wheels, best deals... MOTORING REVIEW
BRILLIANCE ON THE BOIL...
FIRST let me sum up the performance. When you let it loose, the Cupra 280 runs riot like a furiously territorial bull. It rampages through the DSG gearbox with the front tyres on the limit, slamming each new ratio home with a satisfying whump in the back and a cheeky parp from the twin exhausts. It could - and should - be a bit louder in Cupra mode; the angriest of the four driving mode selector options. When Comfort and Individual modes can take care of the quiet, relaxed, everyday thing, there's no reason to hold back with Cupra. The VAQ triple-clutch differential assist on the front axle is worth its weight in unobtanium, managing the immense torque across the grippy front Bridgestones to devastating effect. Dry weather traction is unbelievable: violent, relentless and intoxicating. Your tyre fitter will thank you for the extra business if you enjoy it too often. The DSG gearbox is a thorn in the car's side. It's a bit fragile, so torque has to be limited and fed in slowly when the turbo first spools up. It helps to make the automatic Cupra the gentler and more relaxed option compared to the manual, but the latter is more immediate, more explosive, more raw and, believe it or not, smoother - unless you're a complete dunce with the clutch.
Then there's the lack of real manual control to boost the sense of driving involvement. If you don't shift up in time, it'll do it for you, so if you're just a fraction late with the shift paddle, you end up switching two gears instead of one. It could definitely be implemented better. At the additional price it commands, it's hard to recommend DSG. But either way, having that swell of torque on tap is a joy even if you only ever use 20% of it on your commute. Just knowing it's there is enough to put a smile on your face. It does have some annoying niggles
though The CD player being in the glove box is one of them, and the desperately old-tech media screen is another - I'm sure the screen on my first mobile phone had better resolution. OK, I exaggerate, but it really isn't good enough for a 2014 car costing almost £30,000 before options. Thankfully, the much-improved unit from the Leon X-Perience could see production in the Cupra in a year or two. The wheels at at 19 inches make one heck of a statement. The more you look at this car, the more the wheels make sense. It's not a massively overstated car in terms of its
styling, but there's no question that the wheels add attitude. Until you kerb them. Protect them if you can. There are flaws to accept and work around, just like with a husband or wife, but its all part of the hot Seat's unique character. It helps that it's especially beautiful in the three-door SC body style with its sleekly sloping roof line and rear three-quarter curves to die for. The Leon Cupra 280 is uberdesirable; it's a car you buy because it pulls your heartstrings more than any of its rivals. But rest assured it has the bite to back up its bark.
FACTS AT A GLANCE SEAT LEON SC CUPRA 280 DSG from £28,230 (£30,935 as tested) Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged fourcylinder petrol producing 276bhp @ 5,350-6,600rpm and 258lb.ft @ 1,750-5,300rpm Transmission: Six-speed DSG automatic gearbox driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 155mph (limited), 0-62mph in 5.7 seconds Fuel Economy: 42.8mpg (official) CO2 rating: 155g/km
Car Body Repairs MOT’s Car Servicing
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584321
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26
CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
SPORT Prize money reaches £3.9million as Festival 2015 changes unveiled HORSE RACING
THE total prize funds for the two Grade One contests on St Patrick's Thursday, March 12, the Ladbrokes World Hurdle and the Ryanair Chase, will increase in value to £300,000. This is a boost of £25,000 for both races, which were worth £275,000 in 2014. The prize money for the OLBG Mares' Hurdle has increased from £85,000 to £100,000 (as well as becoming a Grade One race) and the prize money for the Glenfarclas Cross Country Chase will be £60,000, an increase of £10,000. The total prize fund for the four days of The Festival is now £3.9 million and Cheltenham Racecourse extends its thanks to both Ladbrokes and Ryanair for their continued support. Meanwhile, the 3lb allowance for riders riding for their own stable and the 7lb allowance for riders who have not ridden a winner will be removed from the race conditions in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle race, from 2015. Stuart Middleton, British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Racing Operations Manager, said: “Removing the additional 3lb allowance removes any temptation to gamble on inexperience for what is the highest profile conditional jockeys event of the year, unless trainers are comfortable that it is the right booking for the horse. “We do not have an issue with trainers using their own riders and
understand the desire to keep successful partnerships intact, but other trainers who might prefer to book the best available rider should not be discouraged from doing so, as was previously the case with these allowances. “The same sentiments apply to the booking of riders who have not ridden a winner.” Following a review with the BHA's Senior Inspector, the maximum field sizes for the following races have been reduced to improve bypassing arrangements: Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle 22 runners from 24 runners; Neptune Investment Management Novices Hurdle - 22 runners from 24 runners; Coral Cup Handicap Hurdle - 26 runners from 28 runners; Fred Winter Juvenile Handicap Hurdle - 22 runners from 24 runners; JCB Triumph Hurdle - 22 runners from 24 runners; Vincent O'Brien County Hurdle - 26 runners from 28 runners. The changes made to the threemile handicap chase starts on both the Old Course and the New Course, to improve the starts and used to date this season, will also apply at The Festival. This will affect the following races: The Festival Handicap Chase will be run over a distance of 3m 1f (previously 3m ½f) on the Tuesday; The Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup will be run over a distance of 3m 2f (previously 3m 1½f) on the Thursday. and The Festival Plate (reduced to 2m 4f in 2014 by the request of the BHA) will revert to 2m 5f on the Thursday.
Service face Gala in semi-finals of Les James Cup COUNTY FOOTBALL
CHELTENHAM Civil Service have been drawn at home to Gala Wilton in the semi-finals of the Les James Cup. The Gloucestershire County League leaders' opening match of 2015 against Ellwood last Saturday fell victim to the weather, with Bishop's Cleeve Reserves' trip to Berkeley Town also postponed. Taking part in the Les James Cup
for the first time, Service thrashed Henbury 4-0 in the quarter-finals after progressing on penalties against Patchway Town in round two after a 1-1 draw. King's Stanley face Thornbury Town in the other semi-final of the competition, which was won by league champions Longlevens last season. Dates for the semi-final ties are to be confirmed with the fixture secretary.
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Local Sport
Injuries ruin Cheltenham’s hopes of a win in county derby with Newent RUGBY UNION
Cheltenham 10 Newent 46 AN INJURY ravaged Cheltenham side leaked six tries to county rivals Newent as the sides returned to action after the Christmas break at the Prince of Wales Stadium. Cheltenham opened the scoring when Newent were penalised, allowing Zac Atallah to kick a 27 metre penalty. Newent kicked their own penalty three minutes later with star man Ross Webb on target. The visitors then gained turnover ball from the restart and ran it down the left wing with Webb on hand to score a unconverted try. Within four minutes Newent gained a further try through centre Charlie Gellert with Webb converting to make it 18-3 after 22 minutes. Cheltenham hit back, spending 10 minutes camped in their opponents’ 22 but Newent withstood all the home side could throw at them. Just before half-time Cheltenham were reduced to 14 men with Tom Lait shown a yellow card. Despite being a man down, centre Harrison Sayers intercepted
a pass and ran 72 metres for their only try of the game. Josh Herbert took over kicking duties after Atallah was helped off the field and he converted successfully. Cheltenham then found themselves reshuffling their depleted team further when captain James Hillier was carried from the pitch with a suspected ankle break. Newent regained a stranglehold over the game and in the 60th minute Gellert ran in his second try with Webb adding the extras. Cheltenham were then reduced to 14 men with Herbert incurring the wrath of referee Hugh Bowles, earning himself a yellow card. Worse was to follow for Cheltenham when they lost prop Henry Compton with a recurring groin injury and with no replacements left they restarted with 13 men and uncontested scrums. Newent soon utilised the numerical advantage with the hard working Brett Gardener diving over for a well worked score and the boot of Webb extending the lead to 32-10 with 72 minutes played. It grew to 39-10 when the excellent Gellert scored his third try with Webb again on target with the conversion. Cheltenham lost yet another player with Anthony Woodthorpe
leaving the field of play to end the game with 12 players left on the pitch. The final play of the game saw prop Chris Steward kicking ahead and Dominic Matthews winning the foot race for the final try with Webb completing a comprehensive away victory. It left Newent at the top of Western Counties North with Gloucestershire rivals Coney Hill who had a narrow win against Chosen Hill. Cheltenham will need to have a head count of fit players for a vital trip to North Bristol this weekend. CHELTENHAM: H Compton, J Herbert, S Gilder, J Hillier, J Milne,R Edwards, J Haskayne, T Lait, A Woodthorpe, Z Atallah, H Sayers, S Brooke, R Morris, D Edwards, C Whitfield. Replacements: S Murrells, T Acheson, B Burger. NEWENT: M Morris, L Williams, C Steward, D Fletcher, T Freeman, J Parker, R Malone, F Nottingham, J Dean, W Matthews, D Mattews, R Webb, C Gellert, B Gardner, R Merrett. Replacements: G Phelps, J Meek, D Bubb-Sackyn. REFEREE: Hugh Bowles, Glos Society. STAR MAN: Ross Webb, Newent.
8 JANUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Local Football
Brave Cleeve undone by leaders Merthyr SOUTHERN LEAGUE FOOTBALL
Bishop’s Cleeve Merthyr Town
1 3
BISHOP’S Cleeve put on a brave show against league leaders Merthyr Tydfil before finally succumbing to a 3-1 defeat at Kayte Lane on New Year’s Day. Two late strikes for the Martyrs saw them run out winners but Mitres boss Steve Cleal was pleased with his team’s efforts. Merthyr played with the wind at their backs in the first half, enjoying large spells of possession as they looked to continue their fine goalscoring record. It took 20 minutes for the deadlock to be broken when forward Kane McLaggon found space in the box and despite Steve Benbow’s initial save he finished from close range. Benbow then produced a fine stop to tip a drive from 30 yards onto the bar. Merthyr continued to press but the Cleeve defence stood firm, keeping it 1-0 at the break. Cleeve started the second half well, trying to get back into the game and putting the Welsh side under pressure. They found a deserved equaliser when Jack Watts curled in from out wide over the goalkeeper. The Mitres were not level for long when now 10 man Merthyr, who had Guillermo Bauza sent off for violent conduct, regained the lead when a neat one two and cross come shot found its way into the net by defender Dan Summerfield. Substitute Ryan Prosser added the third with a close range header from a corner.
Festival tribute to Toby Balding OBE HORSE RACING CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE
Beech Road & 1991 Morley Street) plus the Cheltenham Gold Cup (1992 Cool Ground). There were also two successes in the National Hunt Chase – Lucky Vane in 1981 and Boraceva in 1989. He sent out two winners of the Grand National (1969 Highland Wedding and 1989 Little Polveir) at Aintree, giving him the rare distinction of having trained winners of Jump Racing’s three biggest prizes. Balding was a noted mentor of young jockeys, having nurtured the most successful Jump jockey of all-time, 19-time champion A.P. McCoy, as well as other leading riders such as Bob Champion, Richard Linley and Adrian Maguire.
Steve Benbow made an outstanding save for Cleeve, but was still beaten three times
Collicutt’s Evesham run riot in second half as Cleal’s men are made to suffer SOUTHERN LEAGUE FOOTBALL
Evesham United Bishop’s Cleeve
5 0
FORMER Cleeve boss Paul Collicutt’s Evesham United completed a win double over Steve Cleal’s Mitres side with a 5-0 rout at the Jubilee Stadium on Saturday. Five second half goals, including three in five minutes condemned Steve Cleal’s side to their 20th defeat of the season.
Always a positive contributor to the racing industry, he helped found the National Trainers’ Federation and also served on the board of the British Horseracing Authority. In recognition of his efforts, he was elected an honorary member of the Jockey Club in 2005 and was awarded an OBE for services to racing in 2011. His training career began on the death of his father Gerald, saddling his first winner on the Flat at Ascot on September 26, 1957. At the age of 20, he was the youngest trainer in the country at the time. He held a licence for 47 years up until his retirement in 2004. For the majority of his career, he was based in Hampshire. The Balding racing dynasty also includes Toby’s younger brother Ian, a highly-successful Flat trainer who sent out the outstanding 1971 Derby winner Mill Reef from Kingsclere. Andrew Balding, who took over the training licence at Kingsclere from Ian in 2003, is Toby’s nephew with leading broadcaster Clare
Both sides had chances in the first half with Joe Tustain and Jack Watts going close for Cleeve despite Evesham’s dominance in possession and territory but neither side got the breakthrough so at half time the game still looked in the balance. However 47 minutes in Evesham took the lead and they went from strength to strength, with two goals each for Adam Mann and Ashley Edenborough, along with Nick Stanley’s strike.
Balding his niece. Balding’s daughter, Serena Geake, welcomed the initiative. She said: “The whole family are honoured and delighted to have a race named after Dad at the Festival this year; and he would be too. “He adored Cheltenham and had an enviable record with two Champion Hurdles and a Gold Cup under his belt to name but a few of the races he won there. We are all looking forward to the day with great excitement.” Ian Renton, Regional Director Jockey Club Racecourses South West, said: “I am delighted that we are able to remember Toby Balding at The Festival, with a race named in his honour. “Toby was such a renowned figure within the racing industry, both as a trainer and through his work with the National Trainers Federation and British Horseracing Authority so it is fitting that the four-mile chase on the opening day of The Festival will be the Toby Balding National Hunt Chase.” First staged in 1860, the National Hunt
Steve Cleal (left) and Paul Collicutt
Chase has been run more times - 144 - than any other race at The Festival. Until the 1930s, only the Grand National was more important than the National Hunt Chase in the Jump calendar. The race took place at a number of venues until it became a part of the new two-day National Hunt Festival at Cheltenham in 1911. Two earlier renewals were run at Cheltenham, in 1904 and 1905. Toby Balding’s 11 winners at The Festival: Supreme Novices’ Hurdle: 1990 Forest Sun National Hunt Chase: 1981 Lucky Vane, 1989 Boraceva Mildmay Of Flete Handicap Chase: 1961 Malting Barley, 1973 Vulgan Town County Hurdle: 1987 Neblin Sun Alliance Chase: 1987 Kildimo Champion Hurdle: 1989 Beech Road, 1991 Morley Street Cheltenham Gold Cup: 1992 Cool Ground
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
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Local Football
Cheltenham League round-up CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL
THE weather may have impacted a number of fixtures but there was still plenty of action as the Cheltenham League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford, resumed after its Christmas break. The season of goodwill to all men was clearly over at KGV Shurdington as Leckhampton Rovers demolished their hosts 160 in their Division Three fixture. Four players, Joseph Lawrence, Tim Tylatt, Jack Horrell and Mark Lawrence, all netted hat-tricks with Horrell and Lawrence starting the game on the bench. The win moved Leckhampton to the top of the table while Shurdington remained rooted to the bottom, six points adrift of Charlton Rovers Reserves who went down 3-1 to Pittville United last Saturday. Leckhampton face second placed Welland this weekend and with their opponents just a point behind, the game could provide an early indication of the likely destination of the league title. Northway moved back to the top of Division Four following their 11-4 win over Bourton Rovers III. Guy Simmons hit five goals as the leaders got back to winning ways following their defeat last time out. With the top two in cup action this weekend, third placed Chel-
Dan Warren scored twice to help open up a three point gap at the top of Division Two for Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves
tenham Civil Service III could move level on points with Northway if they beat Star Reserves. The big game in Division Five saw fourth placed Cheltenham Civil Service IV beat third placed Staunton and Corse. Proven goal scorer Jamie Moore netted twice as Service beat their hosts 3-1. FC Lakeside Reserves also claimed all three points and their win took them top of the table, heading Cheltenham Athletic on goal difference. At the foot of the table, FC Barometrics Reserves travel to Hatherley FC knowing that victory could move them off the bottom and potentially up four places if other results go their way. Irrespective of how other team perform, with their opponents just three points ahead, and
sharing the same goal difference they are assured to move off the bottom with a win. With second placed Fintan Reserves in cup action on Saturday, Malvern Vale will move three points clear at the top of Division Six if they beat Gala Wilton IV. Both Fintan and Vale have 100 percent records, winning all six of their league games and neither team will want to be the first to lose that record before the clubs meet in early February. The top two teams were not in action in Division One this weekend so third placed RSG had an opportunity to close the gap at the top. However things did not go to plan as they were beaten 4-2 by a Bishops Cleeve III side who have been struggling at the bottom of the table.
The top four all play this weekend and with old rivals FC Lakeside, who are currently second, and Churchdown Panthers, who sit in fourth place, it promises to be an exciting round of fixtures. Pantherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pipped Lakeside to the Division Two title last season and both teams started life in the top Division in impressive form. Panthers form in recent weeks has been below par and they know they will need to win this game if they are to have any chance of taking back to back titles. The bottom two also meet this weekend as Kings AFC host Bishops Cleeve III. Cleeve, buoyed by last weeks victory, will be looking to open up a seven point gap between the two teams. Kings know that defeat will leave them in a very perilous position. Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves opened up a three point lead at the top of Division Two with an emphatic 5-1 win at Northleach. Dan Warren scored twice and was joined on the score sheet by Dan Midwinter, Joe McCauley and Ryan Williams as the leaders started 2015 as they finished 2014. Service host Cheltenham Patriots on Saturday, a team who defeated them in the return fixture earlier in the season. Patriots trail the leaders by 13 points, but have four games in hand.
Depleted Kings go down fighting at Southside CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL
Southside Reserves 3 Kings Reserves 2 THIS was not the result that Kings Reserves wanted, but they played well and were the better side when it came to passing football in this Cheltenham League Division Four clash at Burrows. Due to a lack of available players in the firsts, the Reserves lost three key players. Despite this they managed to draw on occasional players who put on a good show. On the other hand Southside Reserves were able to draw on reinforcements from their first team as they attempted to gain revenge for the defeat in the County Cup match before Christmas.
On a very heavy pitch, the opening exchanges were even, although Southside were the slightly better side, they lacked the ability to finish off some good build up play. As the game developed into something of a midfield battle, it was difficult to see where a goal was going to come from until Febery went on a devastating run and put Ben Ellis in to score the opener. At this stage Kings were beginning to win the midfield battle with Dan Creed, Gareth Bee and Febery linking up extremely well to break down opposition attacks and create goalscoring opportunities at the same time. This goal put Southside on the back foot but they were spurred on by Lewis Hough and Matt
Williams, as they hit back to try and get themselves back into the game. With half-time beckoning, Worgan was harshly adjudged to have unfairly shouldered an attacker off the ball on the edge of the box. The free-kick was struck well but then took a deflection off the end of the Kings defensive wall which left Ivor Griffiths with no real chance to stop the equalizer. The second half saw Kings trying hard to regain the lead and they were pinning Southside into their own half for long periods, but without success. Southside were looking to counter attack and from one of these they broke through the defensive cover for Jack Edwards to score.
Sol Griffiths was then introduced into the game and gave Kings a bit more pace up front. He was almost through on goal when he was brought down in the area but despite the Kings protest no penalty was awarded. He then came very close to equalising when he was put through but had to stand and watch as his shot beat Teague but rebounded off the cross bar. Southside were awarded another free-kick on the edge of the penalty area and this was struck home leaving Ivor Griffiths stranded. With time running out, Kings were awarded a penalty which Joe Griffiths dispatched into the net to give them a fighting chance, but it came too late to make a difference.
Barometrics make flying start to new year NORTHERN SENIOR FOOTBALL
Dursley Town FC Barometrics
1 5
FC BAROMETRICS travelled to Dursley Town for their first game of 2015 and came away with an emphatic win in difficult conditions. The visitors took the lead with only six minutes on the clock following some good build up play. Danny Gittings played in Kevin Slack (pictured), who made no mistake, rounding the goalkeeping and firing into an empty net. The lead was soon doubled when captain David Lodge's shot from a tight angle flew into the net for his first goal of the season. With only 19 minutes gone, Baros made it three when Kurtis Burrows raced through on goal before lobbing the keeper from 20 yards. Dursley were struggling to deal with wave after wave of attack and Baros were unlucky not to increase their goal tally. First Slack shot over from a good position and Lodge then fired just wide. The home side were given a glimmer of hope when they were awarded a soft penalty in time added on at the end of the first half, which was well taken giving Rob Sherwood no chance. The second half began in similar fashion to the first and It was not long before the three goal lead was restored on 51 minutes. An inswinging corner was only half cleared and former Bishop's Cleeve and Evesham United forward Slack was quickest to react, his left foot strike from 10 yards finding the net. Sam Slender replaced Slack on the hour mark and Sonnie Burrows came on for man of the match Andy Varnam. It was substitute Sonnie Burrows who was next on the scoresheet after his brother Kurtis was brought down in the box and Sonnie made no mistake from the spot. Late in the game player/manager Mike Rhodes replaced the impressive Nick Hill as the visitors comfortably saw the game out. Baros lie sixth in the Northern Senior League Division One table ahead of this weekendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s GFA Senior Amateur Cup tie at Leonard Stanley.
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Liverpool starlet so happy to cap Robins debut with winning goal L
Cheltenham Town’s on loan starlet Kevin Stewart
ago, during his time at Tottenham Hotspur, but he said League Two presented an altogether different challenge. “I found it very different to when I was at Crewe because it was a lot more physical, with a higher tempo and you don’t get any time on the ball,” he said. “It was a new experience for me, but I am looking forward to the next one now. “The main thing is to get games and build experience, so I was very happy to play 90 minutes on my debut.” Stewart started in a deep lying midfield role at the Kassam Stadium, having recently made the switch from left-back in the middle of the pitch under Liverpool’s academy director Alex Inglethorpe, with whom he also worked at Spurs. “That was only my fourth game in the middle, but I prefer it there,” he said. “I was deep at first against Oxford, then
asked to go higher, it’s about adapting to what the gaffer wants me to do. “Alex Inglethorpe told me to make sure I show my strengths and adapt to whatever is asked of me. “I don’t score many goals and I don’t think I have scored a winner since I was a little kid, so I was very pleased with that!” On-loan Bristol City striker Wes Burns put Oxford in front after 20 minutes and Cheltenham were second best for much of the opening 45 minutes. But two moments of magic from their Liverpool loanees put them ahead. Lee Vaughan fed 20-year-old Dunn, whose powerful drive beat Clarke at his near post and nestled in the bottom corner. Two minutes into time added on, Matt Richards took a short corner and fed Stewart who curled a shot into the bottom left corner, with U’s goalkeeper
Ryan Clarke making a mess of it. Robins number one Trevor Carson’s superb save from Danny Hylton in the second half ensured the Robins ended their long wait for a three point haul. OXFORD UNITED (3-4-3): Clarke; Mullins, Dunkley, Wright (c); Meades, Whing (Rose 72), Ruffels, HolmesDennis (O’Dowda 82); Burns (Campbell 75), Hylton, Roberts. Subs not used: Collins, Crocombe, Long, Ashby. CHELTENHAM TOWN (4-4-2): Carson; Vaughan, Jones, Brown, Braham-Barrett; Sterling-James (Hanks 57), Ferdinand (Deaman 90), Stewart, Richards; Dunn, Gornell (Williams 79). Subs not used: Gould, Harrison, Haworth, Kotwica. REFEREE: K Hill. ATTENDANCE: 5,360 (499 from Cheltenham). STAR MAN: Jack Dunn. PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
IVERPOOL youngster Kevin Stewart admitted he could not have wished for a better outcome on his debut for Cheltenham Town at Oxford United on Saturday. The 21-year-old curled in the winning goal during first half stoppage time after fellow Reds prospect Jack Dunn had levelled for Paul Buckle’s Robins in the 40th minute. “It doesn’t get any better than that really and I owed the goal after losing it in the build-up to their goal, so I was really happy to get the goal for the team,” Stewart said. “It went though a lot of bodies, so the goalkeeper didn’t see it until late. We came here to win and get the team up the table so we want to go on a run now.” Stewart spent time on loan at League One side Crewe Alexandra two seasons
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 8 JANUARY 2015
Oxford United 1
Cheltenham Town 2 PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
SPORT
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Buckle set for more wheeling and dealing in transfer window FOOTBALL
C
HELTENHAM Town chairman Paul Baker says there are likely to be more players coming and going during the January transfer window. Boss Paul Buckle has so far brought in young loan trio Lloyd Jones, Kevin Stewart and Jack Dunn from Liverpool. Striker Dunn and midfielder Stewart capped their debuts with the goals in Cheltenham’s 2-1 victory at Oxford United last Saturday. Midfielder Jason Taylor has left the club to join Northampton Town and Baker admitted that Buckle may
need to offload more players from the wage bill before further new faces arrive. “Cash flow is tight and the manager is conscious of the financial situation at the club,” Baker said. “He is looking very carefully at all the costs he is responsible for and realistically we need to move players out before we move more players in. “The manager has one or two thoughts which he has shared with me and it all sounds good. “We don’t need to make loads of changes and we are moving in the right direction, with a lot of good players already here. “One or two more in would be the
maximum expectation, with perhaps two going in the other direction as well.” Cheltenham ended a run of nine League Two games without success by defeating Oxford, earning Buckle his first victory at the helm. It lifted them to 17th in the table ahead of this weekend’s long trip to bottom club Hartlepool United. Baker said: “The win at Oxford was a massive relief. We have been getting there slowly, with some draws and looking much tighter at the back, but it’s great to finally get that win. “I was delighted for the fans because they haven’t had a lot to
cheer about for quite a few months and I am delighted for the board as well because we’ve been under a lot of pressure. “It was a huge lift for everyone at the club and a great start to the new year. “It’s just one win, but to go to Oxford, whose budget will be considerably higher than ours and play as well as we did in the second half, was very pleasing. “The away support of 499 fans was superb. For them to travel in those numbers and make as much noise as they did was first class and they made a huge difference so thanks to all the fans who went.”
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National Hunt Chase to be run in honour of Toby Balding HORSE RACING
CHELTENHAM Racecourse have announced that the 2015 National Hunt Chase will be run in honour of the late Toby Balding OBE. The four-mile contest for novice chasers takes place on the first day of The Festival, Tuesday, March 10, Champion Day. Balding died on September 25 at the age of 78 and his memorial service was held at Marlborough College on Monday, December 15. He trained over 2,000 winners over Jumps and on the Flat during the course of his career and was especially at home at The Festival, where his 11 victories included two Champion Hurdles (1989 TURN TO PAGE 31>
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