Cheltenham Standard 23rd April 2015 by Cotswold Style Ltd

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UKIP CAR CAPER UKIP candidate Christina Simmonds in Police inquiry over damaging car

By todd hAslewood The UKIP parliamentary candidate for Cheltenham Mrs Christina Simmonds has found herself in hot water over damaging a car on the 23rd March of this year. Christina Simmonds, is in a police inquiry over alleged car damage. With the most two important weeks of her political career coming up, this ill-timed collision could have repercussions. On the 23rd of March, Mrs Simmonds clipped a car after being parked illegally in a private parking bay on St George’s Road in Cheltenham. The car’s owner, stated that they had seen the incident and wanted to talk to her, left a note on Mrs Simmonds vehicle notifying her that she had hit the rear nearside bumper of the Toyota Land Cruiser (pictured). Mrs Simmonds also managed to damage her own car, a Jaguar XF in the process (pictured on page 2). Instead of apologising for her mistake and reaching some form of

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conclusion with the claimant there and then, Mrs Simmonds allegedly threw away the note and drove away from the scene, as witnesses watched on. The claimant, who lives locally in Cheltenham but cannot be named due to security reasons, said: “How can anybody put their trust in a politician who is campaigning for our votes, when she has the audacity to damage my car and then drive away from the problem? She still hasn’t reached

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

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Former Cheltenham Town footballer Chris Zebroski jailed for four years THE 28-year-old striker admitted four charges of robbery, attempted robbery and assault relating to two incidents. Swindon Crown Court heard he crashed his BMW into a taxi in December and attacked a witness who filmed him when he got out of the car and tried to take his mobile phone. He also assaulted and attempted to rob two men in February. Zebroski, whose former clubs include Cheltenham, Bristol Rovers and Millwall, hit the taxi of Icowalik Vladimirej in Swindon on 14th December.

Another driver, Bala Maddu, thought his car had been hit so began filming the exchange between the two men. Prosecutor Colin Meeke said Zebroski hit Mr Madhu in the side of the head and tried to wrestle his mobile phone from him before taking and smashing it. Mr Vladimirej ran off so Zebroski chased him, pushed him to the ground and punched him at least 10 times, saying “give me your phone”. Mr Meeke said Mr Vladimirej was left battered and bruised. When arrested, the footballer

UKIP candidate in police probe >> CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

out to me in an attempt to restore the situation either.” Contradicting the claimant the parliamentary candidate for UKIP, Christina Simmonds, said: “My car was parked briefly in front of a flat owned by a friend who was moving house to collect items being transported.” “The note was not thrown away and (the claimant) was

spoken to subsequently when they were assured that any damage would be made good. The quote from the repairers arrived only late last week, so a cheque has not yet reached them.” Police are continuing to investigate proceedings, as Mrs Simmonds hasn’t been prosecuted for her actions, nor made reparations to the claimant as yet.

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Christina Simmonds damaged Jaguar XF

Chris Zebroski

said he was “a bit over the limit” and did not want police involved. While on bail for these offences, Zebroski attacked and tried to rob two men in Victoria Road, Swindon, after drinking heavily at a friend's party. Rob Ross, defending, said Zebroski had a problem with

alcohol. The court heard he had previous convictions for assault and alcohol-related incidents. Recorder Ian Lawrie said: “Whatever talent you had as a footballer has been squandered because of alcohol abuse. “It is a matter of regret if this sentence shatters your professional football career.”

Whaddon Road reopens with brand new sewers WHADDON Road in Cheltenham was officially opened last Wednesday 15th April after Severn Trent Water has finished work to lay brand new, larger sewers. This is great news for local residents, who are already using the brand spanking new pipes, which will help prevent sewer flooding for the area. Wayne Ellis, programme manager for Severn Trent Water, explains: “Our work in Whaddon Road forms part of the £5 million we’re spending in Cheltenham to prevent sewer flooding for our customers. We started the work in February and although we initially encountered some problems with buried pipes and cables in the road, we’ve managed to catch up on the time we lost, and have completed the work on time, as we promised our customers at our exhibition last December. “We re-opened Whaddon

Road last week, which meant drivers could use the road and bus services could be restored. We know that this work brought some disruption, so we’d like to thank local residents, who have shown us nothing but support and patience while we’ve been laying the sewer pipes. The new pipes we’ve put in will help to prevent sewer flooding from affecting our customer’s homes. As anyone who has experienced it will tell you, it’s a horrible thing to happen, and it’s our job to stop it.” Work to replace sewers in Cheltenham, which is being carried out by Severn Trent’s contract partner NMCNomenca, continues in Roman Road and Fawley Drive. All of the work will be completed in June this year. For help with water or sewerage services, customers can call Severn Trent Water 24 hours a day on 0800 783 4444.

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23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Candidates swap ballots for ballads in Poetry eleCtion Paul Gilbert

By SoPhie FlowerS

POLITICIANS turned poetic on Wednesday last week (April 15th) at Cheltenham’s first Poetry Election. Around 100 poetry-lovers turned up to hear the six parliamentary candidates for Cheltenham read two of their favourite poems at the University of Gloucestershire before casting their vote in the ‘ballad box’. From the unimaginative choice of ‘If’ by Rudyard Kipling, read by UKIP candidate Christina Simmonds, to the moving and deserving winner ‘This is a Life Story, Isn’t It?’, by John Killick, read by Lib Dem Martin Horwood, the candidates chose an impressive variety of verse for the event. Independent candidate Richard Lupson-Darnell selected his children’s favourite ‘The Zax’ by Dr

Zeuss, while Green party candidate Adam Van Coevorden read Wilfred Owen’s infamous war poem ‘Dulce et Decorum Est’ and Labour cannon fodder Paul Gilbert chose Shakespeare’s most famous sonnet, ‘Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer Day?’ Tory Alex Chalk scored points from the traditionalists by reciting his chosen verses, including ‘Baboon’ by Spike Milligan – with Cheltenham amendments, by heart, a skill he reportedly practiced by writing them out from memory the night before. Howard Timms, of the Cheltenham Poetry Festival, said: “We’re pleased that the candidates for Cheltenham are involved in this event which takes the dispute out of politics and brings focus onto the arts.” The second half of the

Alex Chalk

Adam Van Coevorden

event, organised by the Gloucestershire Echo, saw the candidates discuss their policies on funding for the arts. The poetry election was a launch event for the Cheltenham Poetry Festival, which started earlier in the week and runs until May 3rd. See www.cheltenhampoetryfest.co.uk for details.

Student gears up for charity skydive A CHELTENHAM student is preparing to take part in a charity skydive as he raises money for a cause close to his heart. Adam Jones, who studies Business Management at the University of Gloucestershire, will make the leap on May 23rd in aid of Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham (QEHB). ‘A skydive is something I’ve always wanted to do, but it doesn’t make the experience any less nervewracking,’ says Adam, who is currently in his second year at the university. ‘It’s also a fantastic way for me to give something back to QEHB. “My dad suffered a heart

attack last summer, and when I witnessed the incredible treatment he received from the wonderful team at QEHB, I was determined to do something to say thank you.” The 21-year-old student, who will freefall from 10,000ft as part of his

tandem skydive, hopes to raise £500 for the charity and is asking for donations to be made via his Just Giving page (http://justgiving.com/adamjone5). ‘I’m pleased to say my dad’s made an excellent recovery and I hope people will give generously so the hospital can continue its fantastic work,’ continues Adam. According to the British Heart Foundation, around 175,000 heart attacks occur each year in the UK – one every three minutes. But by leading a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and staying active, people are able to reduce their risk of suffering a heart attack.

Five people released on bail after attacking man with a baseball bat THE victim, 27, suffered serious head injuries in the assault near The Range store on Tewkesbury Road, at about 00:40 BST on Sunday. He was taken to hospital where his condition “remains stable”, police said.

Three men, aged 19, 20, and 21, and two boys, 17, all of Cheltenham, were

held on suspicion of attempted murder. They have all been bailed until 27th May. Gloucestershire Police have appealed for anyone with any information about the attack to contact them.

Martin Horwood

Uni encouraging young voters to use their voice FROM students dressed as goats to a sold out Election Debate, staff and students at the University of Gloucestershire are encouraging as many students as possible to use their voice by registering to vote in the forthcoming General Election. With Glossy the Goat as their mascot, the University of Gloucestershire’s Students’ Union (SU) have organised the Goats for Votes campaign, including flashmobs with students dressed as goats and campaign ambassadors out and about with iPads getting students to register online. Jenny Barnes, Student Voice Manager at the Students’ Union, said: “Our main aim is to get as many students registered to vote as possible as this will help to put the voice of students back on the map. As politicians base their policies on who is on the electoral role, then it is vitally important that students register to vote.” As of April 9th there are 87,192 electors registered in Cheltenham, with 4,083 registered in St Paul’s ward, which has a high student population.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

Could The A417 looP Be for The ChoP under lABour? Making a change THAT is the question being asked by Cheltenham's Conservative MP hopeful, Alex Chalk. Following the release of the Labour Party manifesto last week, which announced that a future Labour Government would delay two key road schemes in the South West. The town's Conservative candidate is warning of the risk to local infrastructure projects posed by Ed Miliband's party. The Tory candidate claims that if Mr Miliband were to enter Downing Street, propped up by the SNP, the £255 million scheme to end the bottleneck at the Air Balloon roundabout, could be for the chop. Government funding for the A417 Loop project was announced in December 2014 by the Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, to the delight of local politicians and road safety campaigners, who had campaigned for years to fix one of the most congested and dangerous roads in the country.

Transport Secretary Patrick Mcloughlin with Alex Chalk

The road itself is used by more than 34,000 vehicles each day, and has suffered 350 casualties over the last 15 years. Now local Tories are claiming this could all be at risk again. Speaking to the Standard, the Conservative hopeful, Alex Chalk, commented:

“If Ed Miliband gets into Downing Street then he will be relying on Scottish nationalists to win every single vote. That’s bad news for Cheltenham because it will put at risk the funding and support for vital infrastructure – including the crucial A417 Missing Link scheme. We have already seen Labour

promise in their manifesto to cancel key infrastructure projects in the South West. That combined with the refusal of Cheltenham's Lib Dems to back this vital project spells disaster for our town. After 13 years of inaction on the Air Balloon bottleneck under the last Labour Government, we simply cannot afford to have any more delays. “The Conservatives have committed to funding and delivering this crucial project for our area, so the choice for Cheltenham could not be clearer at this crucial election. It is between David Cameron’s strong and stable team who have a plan to turn the country around and improve life in Cheltenham, or Labour, propped up by the SNP, who would wreck the economy and put at risk crucial investment in our transport infrastructure.”

By Todd HaslEwood YOU as the people of Cheltenham have a choice. On the seventh of May, you have a choice to vote for whichever political party represents you and your ideas the best. If, like a lot of people, you are fed up with the waiting times at the Cheltenham General hospital, with the state of our roads and with the inadequate broadband speed, it is time to make that change. We are entering a new stage of politics, with a general election where nobody can realistically predict the full outcome. Even closer to home, the fight between Martin Horwood and Alex Chalk is heating up and is neck and neck with the election just two weeks away.

Conservative candidate Alex Chalk believes: “After 23 years of the Liberal Democrats, Cheltenham is crying out for change. We need more effective action on things that really matter to our town; restoring night time A&E, fast broadband, fixing potholes and cheaper parking. “We also need to get behind key infrastructure projects like the A417 Missing Link project, instead of sitting on the fence.” All the power rests in the hands of the people in Cheltenham. If you don’t vote come May 7th, and you find yourself moaning about whoever is in power in six months’ time, remember that you had the ability to make change and didn’t act upon it.

Morrisons predicts best british asparagus crop for a decade MORRISONS vegetable buyers have predicted Britain could have the best crop of outdoor grown asparagus for nearly a decade. Intelligence on the growing condition from our farmers combined with a predicted three month heat wave would mean 2015’s asparagus crop could increase by up to 20%. Morrisons Asparagus Buyer David Bartle said: “Growing conditions look like they are going to be perfect. The good weather will not only affect the amount of asparagus grown but also the quality of the crop. We could have the

Enquire about our SPRING Facial Offer most exceptional year since 2007.” Morrisons asparagus crop will arrive in store this Friday 27th April. Most of the crop will originate from the supermarket’s outdoor growers in

the Vale of Evesham and Kent. Due to the exceptionally warm growing conditions, this year’s asparagus will have tender spears with tight heads which will taste sweet and fresh.

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23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

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‘Baaad’ day at cheltenham church POLICE officers were called to the rescue when a new-born lamb was found dumped at the back of a church in Cheltenham. The animal, believed to be about two days old, was discovered by a group of children behind St Aiden's Church, Princess Elizabeth Way last Tuesday 14th April. It was sunburnt, dehydrated and still had its umbilical cord attached. Officers from Hesters Way were called to the scene and brought the baby lamb back to the police station. PC Tania Kirby said: “We gave him a bit of water from a bottle and then he soon perked up. He was bleating and walking around the office for a good two hours, with a long nap in the middle, before being picked up by the RSPCA and taken to an orphaned and abandoned lamb sanctuary.” PC Kirby is thanking the children and members of public who alerted the police: “I have no doubt that if he had been left any longer then he would have died very quickly as it was a very hot day and he was unsheltered and unable to look after himself,” she said.

Post box shame IS Cheltenham’s reputation as an elegant Regency town borne out in all respects? This month the Public Realm Committee of the Cheltenham Civic Society brings to public attention the appalling state of repair of the town’s red post boxes. Featured here in St. Stephen’s Road is a prime example of a neglected, rusting, paint flaking, weed surrounded pillar box which does nothing to enhance the street scene and is, in fact, a disgrace to Cheltenham. There are some equally poorly maintained, yet stylish, historic boxes in the town which should be preserved. It is recognised that due to the popularity of electronic

Martin Horwood Liberal Democrats

Alex Chalk Conservative

Christina Simmonds Richard Lupson-Darnell UKIP Independent

Entrance is free and the evening is being televised. Want to have a voice? Then this is your chance to ask our local politicians the questions that really matter to you.

When: Thursday 30th April Where: Cheltenham Town Football Club, Robins Nest Function Suite Doors open 7pm. Debate begins at 7.30pm ﬁnishing at 9pm prompt Places are extremely limited and you must pre-register for free entry. No registration, no entry! This is on a ﬁrst come/register basis. Register now with your name at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk mail the traditional pillar boxes are used less frequently and this is reflected in the decrease in collection times on many boxes. None the less, one expects them to be in use for some years to come. The Civic Society will be pressing the Royal Mail to give more attention to our much loved red pillar boxes and to paint them more frequently.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

kids’ sunday Pudding CLub LaunCHes aT WHOLe FOOds CHILDREN’S cooking school; Cookery Doodle Doo is bringing creative weekend cooking classes to Wholefoods Market in Cheltenham. The Sunday Morning Pudding Club launched last Sunday, with families sampling the delicious recipes the children will be learning to make including rich Pear and Chocolate Tarts and local Honey Muffins. Cooking teacher and school owner Fiona Lannon said: “I’m delighted to be working in partnership with Wholefoods and bringing our Cookery Doodle Doo classes to the store. I’m passionate about teaching kids the joys of baking, learning about ‘real’ food while also having fun and developing practical cooking skills. Wholefoods are providing oodles of organic goodies and ethically produced ingredients – so it’s a perfect partnership for Cookery Doodle Doo and a great opportunity for the students to bake an extraspecial family treat!”

Regular weekend baking classes are now taking bookings, with the next batch of mini chefs making a Lemon Meringue Tart. Children aged 5-10 are welcome to stay and cook solo before

being collected with their dessert following the two hour class. Interested families should contact Fiona Lannon via www.cookerydoodledoo.co m for more details.

Jet Age Museum gives Midlands Air Ambulance a boost

PHOTO: Luke JOHnsTOn

Fundraising Manager, who showed a moving video on a recent mission to save 10year-old Josh’s life after he fell off his bike in the path of a 30mph car. Guests were then given a guided tour by Jet Age Museum volunteers, who explained the history of all the many exhibits of aircraft from 1915 to WW2 A raffle and mini-auction

by Todd HaslEwood

PHOTO: Luke JOHnsTOn

THE Jet Age Museum near Gloucestershire Airport, hosted a joint Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce/Midlands Air Ambulance Charity business network event last Thursday evening 16th April. Many business guests enjoyed a glass of wine and canapés followed by a brief presentation by Susie Godwin, Gloucestershire

YOUNG PEOPLE NEED TO VOTE

was held which raised £236. Mr Barrie Murray-Upton donated two passenger rides in his Morgan +8 at the Bugatti Owners Garden Party last Sunday 19th April raising a further £100. MAAC Fundraising Manager, Susie Godwin, said: “With the assistance of Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce, it was a pleasure to run this event. Jet Age Museum has a wonderful atmosphere and 40 guests and MAAC volunteers enjoyed this varied evening of net-

working, presentations, and hearing the history of these iconic aircraft that have been beautifully restored. With no Government or Lottery funding, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity needs to raise in excess of £6.5 million to keep the three airbases in six counties operational, 365 days a year, with around ten missions every day. Each airlift costs £2,500, and we are always enormously grateful to the general public and businesses for their support to keep us flying.”

AMONGST all of the problems in today’s politics, the same, recurring question always appears. Why is the voter turnout amongst young people so low? In the last general election, there was voter turnout of only 44% between 18-25 year olds. On top of that, 15 million people nationwide didn’t vote nationwide. If you combine the votes that Labour and the Conservatives got, that adds up to only 18 million. Martin Horwood, Liberal Democrat candidate, believes that, “I’ve been to sixth forms and been speaking to students about how important their say is, and a lot of issues regarding employment and the economy will affect a lot of young people after the general election. It is unquestionably vital that

young people vote.” Your vote has the power to influence, and if you think these parties have got to where they are today without young peoples input, what could happen in this country and in our constituency if young people combined to make change. Conservative candidate Alex Chalk added to this by saying, “It’s absolutely crucial that Cheltenham’s young people vote in the up-coming election. Our democracy is incredibly precious, and it’s important that young people get engaged early to try and make a difference.” Unfortunately, registration for voting has now closed, so we, here at the Cheltenham Standard, sincerely hope you have registered and that you will be making your voice heard at your local ballot station on May 7th.

23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

UK’s largest formalwear specialist makes history in Cheltenham WITH this month seeing the UK’s wedding season now officially underway from today, Young’s Hire is celebrating in Cheltenham in style. After more than five decades in the wedding industry, this year will see Young’s reach its millionth wedding hire. With the Young’s Hire sales total currently creeping towards the seven-figure mark, it could be a lucky customer in the Cheltenham store with double cause to celebrate this summer. To mark the phenomenal milestone, it has been revealed that Young’s Hire’s lucky ‘mil-

lionth customer’ will win hire for all of their wedding outfits on their big day. Arya Gribble, Young’s Hire concession manager at Debenhams Cheltenham comments: “We are delighted that 2015 marks such a momentous occasion for us at Young’s and hopefully it will be one of our

customers here in Cheltenham that is the lucky winner. We know just how hectic and costly a big wedding can be, so we wanted to mark this special occasion by giving something back. We don’t know the exact date that the millionth hire will take place, but it will certainly be sometime in the next couple of months and we are all looking forward to hearing their story.” The UK wedding expert is now counting down the weeks until one lucky couple place their order and are surprised with the great news.

Police seek group of youths after arson attack at playground POLICE in Cheltenham are appealing for information about a group of teenagers who set fire to a wheelie bin in a children's playground. Fire crews were called to St Peter's park just off Arle Road, at about 7.30pm on Tuesday 17th March and stopped the blaze from spreading. The fire destroyed the

bin and damaged the rubber safety matting near to a suspended 'rope bridge' in the play area. Witnesses said they saw up to a dozen youths about three boys aged 17 or 18 and several girls aged 14 or 15 - who, when challenged, ran off towards the Shell petrol station on Princess Elizabeth Way.

Police have released CCTV images of one of the suspects. He is about 5ft 8ins to 5ft 10ins tall, with ginger hair and was wearing a blue and black jacket. Anyone who recognises the youth or who has information about the arson attack is asked to call 101, quoting incident 408 of 17 March 2015.

Council encourages community groups to apply for funding CHELTENHAM Borough Council is now inviting applications for a pot of funding worth £50,000 that is ready to be allocated to support community pride projects across Cheltenham. The funding will be made available to support community pride projects that will build up community pride and enable local groups to be more influential in supporting their communities and improving their neighbourhoods. This year they have two pots of funding: Up to £50,000 will be made available via community pride grants to matchfund community-led projects, up to the value of £5,000. The council is particularly interested in projects that will build up community pride

either through: • Community-led projects that will improve the physical environment of their neighbourhood; • Community-led projects that will bring communities together via cultural activities and celebrations; • Community-led projects that will increase the recognition, economic viability and sustainability of local commercial areas. Up to £4,000 will also be made available via community-building grants to community and voluntary sector groups to run small-scale projects, events and activities to help them support the well-being of their neighbourhood up to the value of £300. Richard Gibson, strategy and engagement manager,

said: “I am pleased that the council once again is able to set up and run the community pride fund; 2015 will be the ninth year of the council’s community pride scheme which has allocated just over £380,000 to matchfund over 200 communitybased projects that have improved and enhanced the public realm. “The success of community pride is down to the fantastic range of voluntary and community groups that we have in Cheltenham, willing to go that bit further to improve their neighbourhood.” The closing date for applications to the community pride grant fund is 5.00pm Monday 22nd June 2015. To apply visit the council’s website: www.cheltenham. gov.uk/communitypride

Well done WAitrose INSIGHT Gloucestershire would like to say thank you to the Waitrose customers who kindly donated £442 through the green token scheme. This money will go towards funding Insight’s Visiting Advisor service. Insight is a charity with the aim of supporting people living with sight loss across the county in a variety of ways. In Cheltenham Insight has its main Resource Centre but recognises that

for some, visiting the centre may not be an option, by having the Visiting Advisor service people that are

house bound and need to see someone face to face, can still access the support and advice they may need. Insight’s services are about helping people so they can enjoy their lives and retain their independence as much as possible despite their sight loss.

Assault on King George V playing ﬁeld POLICE are appealing for information about an assault that took place in Cheltenham on Saturday 11th April. The incident occurred between 11 – 11.30 pm on King George V playing field, Brooklyn Road, Cheltenham, when a suspect approached a 14-year-old boy and his 18-year-old sister who were trying out a mobility scooter.

They were approached by a male who appears to have alleged that they had stolen the scooter. Although they tried to ignore him and move away he seized the brother by the clothing as if to try and pull him off the scooter. Their father arrived and challenged the suspect who began to talk into his mobile phone before departing on foot.

The male is described as being 5’10”, stocky, aged approximately 40, with short very dark hair, and wearing a dark coloured jumper with ‘Help For Heroes’ on the sleeve, and combat shorts. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Gloucestershire Police on 101, quoting Incident Number 454 of 11 April and crime number CR/8093/15.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

CATERING STUDENTS COOK UP A STORM THE first group of Gloucestershire College’s Catering and Hospitality students has successfully completed its five-week work experience placement at Chelsea Bar and Brasserie in Cheltenham, as part of the College’s vocational training partnership with the popular restaurant. Since March, 30 Level 2 and Level 3 Catering students have been working at the contemporary cocktail bar and restaurant for one day a week each, Monday to Friday, in the kitchen and front of house, and gained a whole host of skills that will give them the edge in future employment. As part of their placement programme, each student started by shadowing current staff, before taking on real responsibilities ranging from laying tables, serving drinks and taking orders through the till to preparing and cooking food from the Early Bird, a la carte and special menus. Restaurant Coordinator and Assessor, Wendy Richins, said: “The first group of stu-

dents have done brilliantly well at Chelsea Bar and Brasserie. Working in a commercial kitchen with real customers – and real challenges – has not only improved their confidence, but also their cookery, customer service and presentation skills, as well as given them an insight into a how the restaurant business works.” Manager Sammy Badat said: “Gloucestershire College’s students already had a good knowledge of the kitchen and front of house when they joined Chelsea Bar and Brasserie, but they have all progressed greatly over the past five weeks. They have learnt a great deal from our team here and from

Resident injured in burglary in St Michael’s Road, Cheltenham POLICE are seeking information about a burglary from a house in St Michael’s Road Cheltenham in which the resident was injured. The burglary occurred at about 12.50am on the afternoon of Wednesday 15th April when the resident arrived home and discovered two males in the house, one of them walking downstairs with a black holdall belonging to the resident. The victim attempted to grab the holdall, which got dropped, and was struck on the wrist by the offender, receiving a fractured wrist. The offenders shouted to each other in a foreign accent, and were possibly speaking another language. The offenders ran out and escaped via a side door. One of them may have been wearing black gloves. The offenders, who were possibly of east European appearance, are described as: • Aged 25 – 29, 5’ 11”, with a rounded jaw line, slim, short brown hair, wearing a light blue T shirt with a black motif and red detail, dark jeans and white trainers. • Aged 23 – 27, 6’ 1”, bald, stocky, wearing a dark T shirt, dark trousers, with a tanned complexion and has a European accent.

experiencing busy services – especially during Race Week – and I would definitely consider hiring a few of them in the future!” 18-year-old Gregory Lydiard from Cheltenham, who has also been working front of house, said: “I’ve had a great time working behind the bar. It’s been a completely new experience for me and has made me more proactive and confident with customers. I will miss working with the team here.” 17-year-old Nicholas Holder from Cheltenham, who has been working in the kitchen, said: “This was my first experience of working in a commercial kitchen and I’ve had the chance to work with luxurious ingredients such as lobster and venison, and even learnt how to butcher a rabbit.” For more information about the Catering courses available at Gloucestershire College, watch GC The Movie at www.gloscol.ac.uk/catering or call Student Services on 0845 155 2020.

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Venting spleen NEXT THURSDAY marks a pivotal moment for two political parties. I don’t need to remind you all how hotly contested our constituency is. The Liberal Democrats have held control since 1992 and this year the Conservatives look poised to swoop in and snatch it. But this all depends, ultimately; on how coy they are with propaganda in the last few weeks to voting day. We’ve already seen bosses from both sides spend vast sums of money to push their marketing onto us. These political heavies will commit a lot to win Cheltenham’s swing seat. So an event that could be a real game changer for these politicians is something this very newspaper is proudly hosting. The Cheltenham Standard will be holding its very own Question Time where all four of this town’s main political candidates will be put under the spotlight. Up for grabs is a cushy £74,000 salary (plus expenses, of course), so the idea of simply handing them a seat doesn’t sit well with me. It’s

Local man about town, Tom Thurlow lets loose

up to us to be there and make them squeal. If they want this bumper pay packet – which, by the way, got an 11% increase from last year – then a few awkward questions should be the very least we can load our rifles with. They’ll all be banking on good performances to help boost voter support. So, just like Ladbrokes would, I’ll break down the donkeys, their form and their odds of winning. Here are the Westminster wannabes: An independent is running (didn’t bother to Google his name). To avoid wasting too much of my valuable writing space, all I’ll say is he’s wasting our time and his own for running. Unless you have massive local influence what is the bloody point in footing the £500 to stand as a candidate only to be trodden all over by the Con/Liberal machine? Complete o u t s i d e r. Not worth a punt. 100/1. Next up we

have the UKIP candidate for Cheltenham: Christina Simmonds. Important to have an extreme ‘right-winger’ on the panel to kick the Liberals into touch, but unfortunately that is about all she’ll be good for. Whilst the manifesto has been pleasantly agreeable, the party is still too extreme in other areas for my liking. I also don’t like the exposes the blessed Daily Mail have done on some of their candidates. Not sure I can trust this party and their undesirables. But boy, I do love Nigel! 6/1. Alex Chalk: The underdog. He is Conservative’s real shot at winning the coveted Cheltenham seat and bumping Mr Horwood off. The party has proven their ability to bring down the national debt that was burdened on us by the previous Labour government and they have excelled in growing our economy. They also remain the only party that will renegotiate our

terms with the EU in order to manage our law and immigration rules however we rightly choose to. I don’t believe in God, but if I did, I would pray, pray, pray that Chalky boy wins next month. It will be a tough race but I can see Alex performing well on the final stretch. He’s a sprinter at 5/2! The last candidate we have to consider is the incumbent, very tired-looking Martin Horwood. The Limp Democrat MP has a track record for spending his term posing in photo opportunities with old people. For TEN long years Mr Horwood has been our MP and it’s time someone broke open the rich teas and gave him a hot water bottle for bed. Reluctantly though I have to score his chances high. Our town seems infested with the old brigade who just won’t roll over and follow their conscience rather than their blind allegiance 2/1.

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

23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

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4. In no position to score, not liking team any more? (7) 8. Poems as returned to Ukrainian port (6) 9. Bars that irritate? (7) 10. In greater frenzy to get red dye (6) 11. Sweetmeat given in respect of feelings (6) 12. Conduct my own to source of metal (4,4) 18. Discuss business where speeches can be bought? (4,4) 20. Shortage of thread (6) 21. Rob Ted perhaps - he owes! (6) 22. He makes a list of bequests at one in the morning (7) 23. Abandon barren land (6) 24. Put into warehouse again to repair (7)

1. Mar foul mixed recipe (7) 2. Chief road to progress? (7) 3. Egghead meets up with respect (6) 5. Predict role left out (8) 6. Start moving to provide an improving contrast (3,3) 7. Craned to see someone who moves to music (6) 13. Flying not decided (2,3,3) 14. 100, who were not bare-headed, conversed (7) 15. Make cuts in the theatre? (7) 16. The colour of the saucer is emerald (6) 17. Small weapon for band? (6) 19. He's not one to let things go (6)

wickshire Railway (GWR). Each item was individually-priced and customers were trusted to pay the correct amount of money into an 'honesty' tin. A man was seen taking all of the DVDs on display and making a small payment, but it was later found on totting up that it was only a fraction of the £50

the University of Strathclyde. The prestigious panel includes Maja Maricevic, head of Higher Education at the British Library, Liesl Elder, Director of Development at the University of Oxford, and Chris Cobb, Pro ViceChancellor and Chief Operating Officer at the University of London. Stewart Dove, Director of Student Support, said: "I am delighted that for the second year in a row, the Student Services Department has been shortlisted for this national award. The whole

value of the goods. CCTV footage of the incident showed a man wearing a distinctive multicoloured coat browsing the stall at 9.12am and leaving at 10.04am with a bag of goods and a box of DVDs. Anyone who recognises the man in the image or who has any information about the theft is asked to

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team display high levels of professionalism, skill and dedication on a daily basis, and our students value the varied services that we provide. The team work really hard to support our students, and it is excellent for them to be recognised as among the best in the sector alongside peers from other universities. This is an award category that is highly competitive, and so to get shortlisted is an excellent reflection on the department and the approach that the University takes in seeking to support its students.”

Man sought over theft of DVDs from Steam Railway Centre POLICE have released a CCTV image of a man they want to question in relation to the theft of DVDs from a charity stall at the steam railway station at Cheltenham racecourse. The DVDs were amongst several donated goods being sold on Sunday 22nd March to raise money for the Gloucestershire War-

Last week’s solutions (16th april 2015): ACRoSS: 1 Hard and fast; 9 Mum; 10 Forestall; 11 Tasks; 13 Epistle; 14 Hoards; 16 Indian; 18 Needles; 19 Might; 20 Enactment; 21 Ado; 22 Reading-lamp. Down: 2 Aim; 3 Doﬀs; 4 Nerves; 5 Fashion; 6 Startling; 7 Empty-handed; 8 Alternation; 12 Space race; 15 Dilated; 17 Astern; 19 Motel; 21 Arm.

The winners will be announced during the gala awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane, London on June 18th. The panel of judges looked for outstanding examples of leadership and management during the 2013-2014 academic year. The University has been shortlisted as one of six universities in the Outstanding Student Services Team category along with Bucks New University, De Montfort University, Imperial College London, Northumbria University and

aCroSS

University shortlisted in national award THE University of Gloucestershire has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Outstanding Student Services Team category of the Times Higher Leadership and Management Awards 2015 (THELMAs) for the second year running. The shortlist was revealed last Thursday 16th April on the Times Higher Education website. Now in its seventh year, the awards showcase the efforts of a wide range of teams who make realities of strategic ambitions and deliver what staff and students need.

call 101, quoting incident 278 of 24 March 2015.

Student wins national photography award A THIRD-YEAR photography student from the University of Gloucestershire saw off competition from across the country to scoop a prestigious photography prize. Emma Boyns, studying a BA (Hons) in Photography: Editorial & Advertising, has been announced the winner of the LPA Student Challenges competition. Run by the renowned Lisa Pritchard Agency, Emma’s innovative Liquorice Series has won her representation for two years with LPA Futures as well as her own bespoke portfolio from Delta Design with prints by Metro Imaging. With the theme of the competition being ‘Love it, Hate it’, Emma was inspired to use liquorice as it, “was one of the foods that tends to divide people,” and added that, “the sweets also lend themselves really well to the bright, colourful aesthetic I was aiming for and their shapes work

great with a simple composition and strong studio lighting.” Emma said on winning: “I didn’t expect to win at all so I was a little in disbelief but very proud and grateful for the opportunity. It means a chance to gain exposure and for my work to reach a far wider audience; an audience which could perhaps be responsible for commissioning me, which is ideally the dream result from the prize.” Established in 2010, the LPA Student Challenges offer photography students from across the UK invaluable industry experience, exposure and inspiration. Emma’s winning snaps can be seen on the LPA blog here: www.lisapritchard.com/st udent-challenges.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

E-fits released of burglars who broke victim’s wrist in getaway POLICE investigating a burglary in Cheltenham, in which the victim's wrist was broken as the thieves attempted to flee the scene, have released e-fit pictures of the offenders. The incident happened in St Michael's Road, Charlton Kings, at about 12.50pm on last Wednesday 15th April, when the resident arrived home to discover two men in his house. One was walking downstairs with a black holdall belonging to the victim and in his attempt to grab it, the offender struck him on the wrist causing it to fracture. The offenders were heard to shout in a foreign accent and were possibly speaking in another language. They ran out and escaped via a

side door. One of them may have been wearing black gloves. They are described as: • aged 25 – 29, 5’ 11”, with a rounded jaw line, slim, short brown hair, wearing a light blue T shirt with a black motif and red detail, dark jeans and white trainers. • aged 23 – 27, 6’ 1”, bald,

stocky, wearing a dark T shirt, dark trousers, with a tanned complexion and has a European accent. Anyone who recognises the men from the e-fits or who has any further information about the burglary is asked to call 101 quoting incident 184 of 15th April 2015 and Crime CR/008433.

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coUncil office Move is agreed COUNCIL staff are one step closer to moving out of the Municipal Offices it was agreed last week. At a meeting of full council, it was agreed that an alternative town centre building – to be named in the coming weeks following completion of purchase would offer a more customer focussed, flexible and cost efficient base for the authority. The move could initially save £68k per annum, with further savings from shared facilities management and income from the redevelopment of the Municipal Offices. The new offices will initially be acquired as an investment and would be refurbished to meet the needs of the council. Any additional space would be leased to deliver a long term income stream to help reduce the council’s overhead costs and protect front line services in the face of funding cuts. The council has had a long term aspiration to relo-

cate to modern, more flexible office accommodation which meets both existing and future needs, improves customer experience and provides better value for money for the tax payers of Cheltenham. This option was one of many put forward to councillors – including remaining at the Municipal Offices and purchasing a new build - and following a full appraisal, it was agreed that this move would offer the greatest benefits. Mark Sheldon, director of resources for Cheltenham Borough Council said: “After many years of considering the options, the council has made a significant decision which will have a major impact on the town’s economy and regeneration. Cheltenham will be better placed to attract even more visitors and businesses to the town, and the council will have better and more accessible offices for its local residents and staff.” The plan includes pushing

forward the redevelopment of the Municipal Offices as soon as possible. The vision for the Municipal Offices is to deliver a mixed use development - for instance, a hotel with retail and leisure activities - achieved by reconfiguring the Municipal Offices at the rear, removing the additions to the original building and the creation of a new public space to complement the Royal Crescent. Rather than sell the building for a one off capital sum, it would be more prudent to secure a longer term annual income stream, through a ground rent or performance share, to help support the council’s revenue budget and funding gap. In yesterday’s meeting councillors agreed to begin the process for securing a partner to enter into a joint venture for the redevelopment of the Municipal Offices. It is felt that the release and re-use of the Municipal Offices would add greater value to the economic performance of the town.

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23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Revamp planned for Town Hall THE Cheltenham Trust is celebrating the first phase of an exciting new project at Cheltenham Town Hall. The Trust manages a range of historic and contemporary buildings across Cheltenham and with funding support from Cheltenham Borough Council announced this week, it will now move forward with a large scale plan to re-develop Cheltenham Town Hall. Mark Sheldon, director of resources at Cheltenham Borough Council said: ‘’The sale of North Place and Portland Street car parks resulted in a capital receipt of £8m. This provides the council with a one off opportunity to invest in a project which supports the council’s budget, raises the cultural profile of the town further and has the potential to contribute to the town’s economy.’’ The Cantata project marks the first phase of a funding partnership, which will see one of Cheltenham’s best known landmark buildings revitalised and trans-

Pittville Park play area on course for £300k investment formed. The Trust will use the £400,000 of first stage approved funding to embark on a dedicated programme, to move forward the full capital redevelopment project, securing an even brighter future for the building and offering more cultural diversity for the town. It will explore fresh

options for catering and hospitality and the creation of an innovative cultural hub, alongside several strands of work to consolidate Cheltenham Town Hall’s heritage and 21st century use through capital investment. Julie Finch, Chief Executive of The Cheltenham Trust, said “We are passion-

ate about revitalising Cheltenham Town Hall, driving the redevelopment of the building, ensuring an even greater contribution to the communities it serves. The next few months will be an exciting time for the team at Cheltenham Town Hall, as they begin the first stage of this pivotal project.”

Craft shop moves premises after successful year A VERY different kind of shop, showcasing the best handmade crafts made in Gloucestershire, is celebrating moving premises after a successful first year in business. The Collective, in Cheltenham, is a shop that is owned and run by a group of artisan craft makers from Gloucestershire. The shop allows 23 different small scale craft businesses to sell products in the shop – all made in the county of Gloucestershire. A year ago the shop was opened with the hope of making it a hub for local artisan crafts people, selling everything from candles and jewellery to art and soft furnishings, and it has gone from strength to strength. The shop is run by four of its suppliers; Claire Thomas of Bohemian Beads, Lisa Roselli, of Butterfly Crafts, Becky Jones of Crazy 4 Candles and Sarah Thomson from Heart Felt Beads. The shop does not make any additional profits for the

owners, they simply take the revenue from the items they sell in the shop, just like all of the other suppliers. No one is paid to work in the shop, it is all covered on a volunteer basis by the 23 craftspeople themselves, but the business model seems to work perfectly. The Collective has been going for a year and has just moved into different premises inside The Regent Arcade.

“The support we have had over the last year has been amazing. Some local people come back time and time again to buy gifts for special occasions because they know it is supporting artisan craftspeople in the county,” said Claire. “We feel extremely proud of the shop and the way it is showcasing and selling the work of small business people who would not be able to have their own shop

front with rates and bills to pay.” Claire said that they are always looking for new suppliers to add to the collection in the shop. “Our criteria is that it should be unique, handmade and quality. The best thing to do is come in and speak to us and show us your products,” she added. Currently the shop stocks items including, candles, recycled wood furniture, children’s clothes, art and photographic prints, jewellery, cushions, ceramics, cards and much more. You can visit the new shop in The Regent Arcade, on the ground floor, next to David Christopher Jewellers. To keep up to date with all the news from The Collective visit their Facebook page by searching Cheltenham Collective.

CHELTENHAM Borough Council has big plans in store to make its most popular play area at Pittville Park an outstanding one for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy. In order to do this the council has committed to spending £300k with a further amount of funding from other bodies to be raised in order to complete the project. The project is in its early stages and it is hoped it will be completed during 2016. To start the project off the council wants to find out from people using the park how they would like the play area to look; what equipment should be used? What facilities should be provided? and how it can be improved? Posters are being put up around the play area with details of how users can give their views - either by filling out a simple questionnaire on the council’s website (www.cheltenham.gov.uk /pittvilleplay) or by completing a paper copy. Paper copies can be found at the Central Cross Café, The Boathouse, Pittville Pump Room and Leisure @ Cheltenham, and should only take a few minutes to complete. They can be returned to the place they were collected from and the main reception at the Municipal offices; or posted to Green Space De-

velopment, Cheltenham Borough Council, Central Depot, Swindon Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9JZ. Adam Reynolds, green space development manager, says: “We want this play area to be our flag ship one. This park is always very popular and the play equipment is well used but it is now 20 years old so we think it’s time to start afresh. “We want to create an outstanding play area that is accessible to all, so we need the views from all users to find out what they would ideally like from it. “This is a major undertaking but Cheltenham is known for being a town within a park so it’s important we invest in our green spaces and play areas to ensure they provide an enjoyable experience. “We are committing £300k to this project and will need to raise further funds to ensure we can deliver it. Residents from across the borough, county and beyond use this park so we want to ensure we get it right. We would very much welcome people’s views on what they think is important to see in this play area.” Member’s approved the funding for this scheme at the council meeting on Tuesday. The consultation will be open until Monday 11th May.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

BUSINESS editor’sDesk ith only one week to go to our televised Question Time at Cheltenham Town Football Club, the event is looming in a way that makes the politically savvy amongst us salivate with anticipation. This is a real chance for the good ordinary folks in the town to put the local ‘would be’ politicians right on the rack with no quarter given. You’ll note that our Tom Thurlow is even running a book. If the candidates’ think they’ve already gone through the ‘hustings mill’ then they’d better think again. Our event will be a very lively evening of no holds barred debate, together with dare I suggest, some pointed comments aimed at our panel of erstwhile political hopefuls. I can’t think of a better opportunity than putting their feet to the fire in order to get some straight answers to some very blunt questions. Having said that, I do know both Alex Chalk and Martin Horwood relish the chance to really engage with a passionate local audience. It’ll be Jeremy Kyle meets Jeremy Paxman head-on in a fervent, sizzling night boiling over with great political comment strong enough to scald even the most seasoned of public speakers and of course at the same time addressing the local and national issues that really matter to us here in Cheltenham. If we don’t touch on parking, A&E, pot holes and the A417 Loop I’ll be very surprised, together with taking a larger look at the national issues that have been the focus of the main party leaders to date. As we all know, the cross-party selection of candidates clamouring for our votes have been fighting a hard fought campaign around the town over the past few weeks. This is now their time. Their time to make a difference, their time to make an impression and their time to come clean. Our event is being televised and with only a week to go after our Question Time to the election itself, it’s bound to be a hotly contested evening of comment. The Robins Nest next Thursday at 7.30pm won’t be so cosy for some and our fledgling politicians just might flop out of the nest under some harsh questioning from the audience. As chairman of the panel I won’t be giving any quarter on any of the answers, so I do hope they come prepared. Flak vests are optional. I can’t promise them a comfortable night, but as they say… if you can’t stand the heat?

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BAM-tastic result for local student marketing agency CHELTENHAM based industry-leading student marketing agency, BAM, is proud to announce it has been shortlisted by the Chartered Institute of Marketing in its annual Excellence Awards. Selected as a finalist among eight other SMEs in the ‘Integrated Marketing Communications’ category, BAM’s work with Hostelworld, the world’s number one hostel booking website, supported the UK part of its global ‘Escape to the World’ campaign. Including the launch of a fantastic competition to win three all-expenses-paid trips of a lifetime, BAM’s objectives were clear; to drive entries, collecting a minimum of 50,000 student email addresses, while increasing brand awareness

and engagement among the student market. This was achieved through delivering a creative and strategic multichannel approach. The overall winners will be announced at Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London at a glittering black tie awards ceremony on Monday 27 April, 2015. Tim Bodenham, Managing Director at BAM, said: “We’re very proud to be a finalist for our work with Hostelworld. Competition is even fiercer this year, with some really creative businesses making the shortlist, so it’s great to see the team recognised for all the hard work they put into the campaign.” Regional Marketing Manager at Hostelworld, Dan Zbijowski, said: “It was clear from our first meeting that

BAM were really in tune with the student marketplace. The team listened to what we needed and came up with the competition for Students’ Unions as a means to generate buzz and leads, and that worked well. BAM made us feel important as a client and were creative, responsive and engaged.”

The overarching campaign was also selected as a finalist in the British Youth Travel Awards in December 2014. BAM’s work with Hostelworld and StudentUniverse was recognised among a record number of entries and extremely high standards, with both teams taking home silver and bronze.

WILLANS ADDRESS BUSINESS OWNERS WILLANS’ employment partner, Matthew Clayton and employment solicitor, Asim Khan addressed over 30 business owners, marketers and HR managers keen to learn about the pitfalls and potential legal implications of employees using social media at work, at an event organised by CIM Gloucestershire on Tuesday evening, April 14th. Chambers UK recommended solicitor Matthew explained: “With over a billion people using social media across the globe, it is no wonder that businesses are

getting increasingly concerned about the impact of social media in and outside of the workplace. The key to preventing inappropriate behaviour through these channels is to educate staff to the rights and

wrongs of certain actions and their potential consequences. Companies should have a clear social media policy setting out what the organisation considers to be acceptable.” The event took place at the University of Gloucestershire’s Park Campus in Cheltenham hosted by CIM the world’s leading professional marketing body. CIM members in Gloucestershire organise a broad range of skill

development and company knowledge events for local members. CIM Gloucestershire team members will be exhibiting and speaking at the Gloucestershire Business Show on the 13th and 14th May and the next local CIM event, ‘Think Big, Act Small’ is targeted at small business owners and managers, and is part of Small Business Week 18th22nd May and takes place in South Gloucestershire. For more information visit www.cim.co.uk/eventbooking/?crid=69620

Co-op members urged to vote in historic ballot CO-OPERATIVE Group members are being urged to cast their votes in an historic election which for the first time gives them a direct say in how the £9 billion business operates. Over 375,000 voting packs will land with members in Cheltenham and the South West giving them the opportunity to participate in the Co-operative Group’s new and revitalised democracy. The more direct form of voting marks a return to its pi-

oneering co-operative roots which stretch back to 1844. Members are being asked to vote on motions put forward to the Group’s AGM and vote for members who will sit on the Board, as well as for members standing for the Group’s newly formed Members’ Council. Previously members could only vote for local representatives and just a few hundred people had a say in some of the most important decisions. Now, the major reforms

passed last year, mean members can vote directly for representatives at a national level and on motions to be put to our AGM on Saturday 16th May. Allan Leighton, Chairman of The Co-operative Group said: “We are committed to delivering real democracy for 8.4 million members, so that their

interests can be truly served and respected in the Boardroom. As our recent financial results illustrated, The Group is again moving forwards in the right direction and I’m reaching out to our members to help us maintain this momentum, by using their vote in the boardroom and avoid the catastrophic events of our recent past.”

QuestionTime

with the

Come and join us for our very own ‘Question Time’ at Cheltenham Town Football Club

Your chance To puT The poliTicians on The spoT! and ask them why you should vote for them in the General election

Martin Horwood Liberal Democrats

Alex Chalk Conservative

Christina Simmonds UKIP

Richard Lupson-Darnell

Independent

When: Thursday 30th April Where: Cheltenham Town Football Club, Robins Nest Function Suite Doors open 7pm. Debate begins at 7.30pm ﬁnishing at 9pm prompt. Entrance is free and the evening is being televised. Want to have a voice? Then this is your chance to ask our local politicians the questions that really matter to you.

ONE WEEK TO GO > REGISTER NOW

Places are extremely limited and you must pre-register for free entry. No registration, no entry! This is on a ﬁrst come/register basis. Register now with your name at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk. One place allocated per registration. No multiple registrations allowed.

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ambrose re c r u i t m e n t

Technical | Engineering | Logistics

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

WHAT’S ON Super Sunday fiesta at THE BrEWEry ceLeBRATe the bank holiday weekend and chiquito’s annual Mexican festival, “cinco de Mayo”, Latino style at The Brewery. On Sunday 3rd May join the Salsa Party from 1pm – 3pm with DJ and dance teacher Thomas Melendez, from Salsa de Sol and move to the beat of great Latin music. Then from 3pm – 7pm enjoy the great sounds of some live acoustic music.

Push the boat out with a free cocktail with every main meal purchased at chiquito’s as well as the chance to win a professional cocktail master class for 10 people! The event is free and Brewery Staﬀ will be collecting money for Guide Dogs, The Brewery’s chosen charity for 2015. All donations greatly appreciated! for more information contact Molly at The Brewery on 01242 574373.

MRS WARREN’S PROFESSION SuE Holderness and Christopher Timothy to star in a brand new production of Bernard Shaw’s Mrs Warren’s Profession to open at the Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham before going on a national tour. Vivie Warren, a young cambridge graduate, is horriﬁed to learn that her education and entire luxurious life-style has been ﬁnanced by her mother’s career in the world’s oldest profession! Due to its frank portrayal of Mrs Warren’s profession, this rarely performed and groundbreaking play was originally banned in england by the Lord chamberlain. Written in 1894, it was not allowed a public

Jazz Festival Fringe is upon us Tour Announcement

alongside christopher performance for the Timothy (All creatures next thirty years and Great and Small; during its ﬁrst Doctors; Dial M for performance in New Murder). York, the police The production is stopped the play presented by the and arrested the everyman Theatre cast! company and is George Bernard directed by Paul Milton, Shaw’s period Christopher the everyman Theatre’s drama is full of Timothy creative Director with insight and humane design by Dawn Allsopp. understanding, with moments of Mrs Warren’s Profession comedy as well as pathos and Everyman Theatre, regent ranks as one of his masterpieces Street, Cheltenham, Gl50 1HQ alongside Pygmalion; Saint Joan friday 19th – Saturday 27th June and Man and Superman. Evenings: Tue – Sat 7.45pm In this sumptuous production Matinees: Thu & Sat 2pm Sue Holderness (Only Fools and Tickets: £13 – £28 available from Horses and The Green Green the Box Oﬃce on 01242 572573 Grass) stars in the title role,

BeFORe and during the cheltenham Jazz Festival (Wednesday, April 29th Monday, May 4th), up-and-coming artists will be invited to showcase their art or act to new audiences. The Jazz Festival always features the biggest names in the music industry stars this year include Van Morrison, caro emerald and Gregory Porter - but the Festival also oﬀers promising artists the chance to get on stage. Taking place across eleven days (Friday, April 24th – Monday, May 4th), the Fringe Festival oﬀers talented emerging artists an incredible opportunity to be part of an internationally renowned festival, as well as possibly showcasing their art in front of industry professionals.

The Fringe takes place in several locations in and around town as well as in the beautiful Montpellier Gardens, the Festival site. And guess what - all of it is completely free! ONE lOCAl ACT TO lOOk OuT fOr Local jazz ensemble Swing from Paris is launching its second album ‘Webster’ on the very same day they will be performing in cheltenham. Violin, guitars and double bass will carry you away to a Parisian café! Rise Records, GL50 1DQ – April 25, 2pm for more details visit: cheltenhamfestivals.com/jazz #cheltjazzfest @cheltfestivals www.facebook.com/ cheltenhamfestivals

Jamie Allan performs death-defying Houdini stunt at Town Hall ONe of the most dangerous magical illusions ever seen on stage is to be performed live on stage by a star of the hit ITV show Get Your Act Together. Jamie Allan will perform his death-defying version of Harry Jamie Allan

Houdini’s lethal but rarely seen water tank routine at the Town Hall on May Friday 1st May. Jamie has performed the showstopping routine many times this year and each time brought the audience to its feet in an instant

standing ovation. The stunt has been performed by only a handful of top illusionists since it was invented by the legendary Houdini in 1911. The audience will see him shackled before being plunged into a glass water tank. As the clock ticks, loudspeakers will amplify the sound of Jamie’s heart as he struggles to free himself before losing consciousness, adding one of many state-of-the art touches to Houdini’s masterpiece. After some near misses in rehearsal, Jamie has now perfected the routine for the public. Box oﬃce: Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gl50 1QA Tel: 0844 576 2210

Swing from Paris

The Russian Ice Stars present Snow White on Ice Ice dancing phenomenon The Russian Ice Stars are set to transform theatres across the country into magical frozen wonderlands in 2015. The original story of an enchanted mirror, a beautiful girl, the ultimate Prince charming and a shiny red apple is bought to life on a frozen theatre stage. Featuring a dazzling display of world-class skating, breath-taking aerial aerobatics Snow White on Ice features mesmerising choreography from World, european and Olympic competitors performed

on a spectacular set to a wonderful score. This spell-binding show promises to sparkle with sheer beauty and elegance that will thrill the whole family. SNOW WHITE ON ICE Wednesday 6th – Saturday 9th May Box Oﬃce: 01242 572573 Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre www.everymantheatre.org.uk Tickets: £14 - £29 Evenings: Wed – Sat 7.45pm, Matinees: Wed – Sat 2pm

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23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDAR

Gardeners REALM Best oF tHe BUNCH - aUBrieta THERE are few plants as generous of flower as aubrieta, a stalwart of the rockery, its flowers cascading over stones and walls casting a sea of blue and purple hues from

April and through May. Aubrieta, which can also be found in shades of pink and white, prefers full sun and soil which isn't too rich, preferably alkaline, and needs to be trimmed hard with shears immediately after flowering to develop its blanket of tight foliage for next year. As aubrieta tends to look straggly over the summer months, pair it with plants which flower afterwards, such as Dianthus alpinus, Geranium cinereum ‘Ballerina’, or ‘Lawrence Flatman’. Good varieties include ‘Doctor Mules’ in shades of pink and purple and ‘Red Cascade’ which produces deep magenta-red flowers in spring.

Good enough to eat – starting oﬀ tomatoes IF you’re growing outdoor tomatoes from seed, sow a few seeds on a sunny windowsill now to give yourself a head start. If you only want a few plants, sow a couple of seeds in 8cm (3in) pots of compost on a sunny windowsill, removing the weaker seedling after germination, which takes about a fortnight. Keep them moist but not wet at about 18°C (65°F). Plant out into growing bags, pots or border soil when the seedlings are 1520cm (6-8in) tall and the flowers of the first truss are beginning to open. Water the pot before planting out and ensure the top of the soil ball is below the soil

surface. Tomatoes, it has to be said, are high maintenance plants, requiring consistent watering and protection from frost, often being ruined by blight. However, as an annual blight victim, this year I’m trying Suttons new cordon variety ‘Crimson Crush’ which the company claims is 100% 'blight resistant'. Watch this space!

TOP TIPS: What to do this week.... • As fresh shoots appear on herbaceous perennials, stake them early with pea sticks and small branches to lessen the chance of damage. • Sow onions outdoors, if you haven't already raised them under glass. • Ventilate cold frames and greenhouses on sunny days to encourage sturdy plant growth. • Feed shrubs, trees, new hedges and fruit bushes as necessary. • Ensure pots of permanent plantings that were sheltered over the winter haven't dried out. • Begin mowing the lawn, making sure the mower blades are sharp and are set high to only remove the

top 1-3cm on the first cut. • Fill in gaps in the border with annuals, herbs or cheap and cheerful perennials such as lupins. • Plant summer-flowering bulbs such as tigridias 5-8cm deep and 10-15cm apart in a sunny, well-drained position. • If you are doing hanging baskets, plant them up now so that the plants will have filled out by the time you put them out, but remember to keep them somewhere light and warm such as a porch or greenhouse, until the weather warms up and all danger of frost has passed. • Mulch permanent containers with compost topped with a layer of gravel or cocoa shells to cut down moisture loss.

LECKHAMPTON

£495,000

CHELTENHAM

£500,000

CHELTENHAM

£260,000

PITTVILLE

£300,000

A rather large three bedroom detached cottage with character features and a partially converted coach house that could, once completed, offer the potential as a two storey annexe with a living room, kitchen, double bedroom and a shower room. This fine property is located in a desirable residential area and its well proportioned accommodation comprises in brief an entrance hall, a generous living room with a feature fireplace, a dining room with a fireplace, a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, a conservatory, three double bedrooms, an en-suite shower room and a family bathroom. Further benefits include gas fired central heating, double glazing, well maintained gardens, a garden store, off road parking and lovely views to Leckhampton Hill.

A surprisingly spacious three bedroom semi-detached family house located in this popular area within walking distance of Pittville Park. Its light and airy accommodation comprises in brief a storm porch, an entrance hall, a generous living/dining room, a separate study/family room, a modern fitted kitchen, utility area, downstairs cloakroom, three bedrooms and a family bathroom. Additional benefits include gas fired central heating, double glazing, a good sized enclosed garden, a garage and off road parking.

A versatile four bedroom detached family house with a wealth of character features, an annexe, a studio and a remarkably idyllic rear garden backing on to St Marks church. Its accommodation comprises in brief a generous entrance hall, a large living room with a feature fireplace, a dining room with a fireplace and a door leading into the annexe, a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, four bedrooms, a family bathroom and a shower room. The annexe offers a bed sitting room with a kitchen area and a bathroom. The delightful garden truly offers that 'we're in the country feel' and further benefits include gas fired central heating, off road parking accessed through an electronically operated roller door and a detached timber studio with a living room, bedroom and cloakroom.

A stylish and beautifully presented four bedroom town house offered in very good decorative order and located in this central location within walking distance of the town centre, bars, restaurants and Pittville Park. Recently refurbished its accommodation is arranged over three floors and comprises in brief an elegant entrance hall, a through living/dining room opening to a fitted kitchen, four bedrooms, an en-suite bathroom, and a family bathroom. Additional benefits of this fine period property include central heating, double glazing, a courtyard garden and the option of residents permit parking.

CHARLTON KINGS

£650,000

A truly quite remarkable Grade II listed period apartment over three floors with up to six bedrooms, a wealth of fine character features, some splendid views and its own entrance and marvellous landscaped garden. A gate opens onto a long attractive pathway to the front door of this fine apartment where a generous entrance hall leads to an impressive staircase to the first floor where the majority of its fine accommodation can be found. This includes an imposing drawing room with an open fireplace, a dining room, a modern fitted kitchen with steps leading to a breakfast room, a utility, the master bedroom with an en-suite, two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Above there are up to three further bedrooms and a second bathroom. Further benefits include gas fired central heating, secondary glazing, a garden store/workshop and easy access to glorious countryside, local shops and schools, and the marvellous facilities offered by Cheltenham town centre.

Customer Charter You can expect the following from us: total honesty realism frequent communication transparency ethical behaviour at all times a never-ending determination to get results

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LECKHAMPTON HILL

£950,000

Approached via a splendid crescent gravelled driveway and located in a wonderfully elevated spot with delightful grounds in the region of 2.3 acres including a former paddock is this five bedroom detached family house with a wealth of character features. Its accommodation is offered in good decorative order and comprises in brief an entrance porch with a cloaks cupboard, a generous entrance hall, downstairs cloakroom, living room with an impressive stone fireplace, sun room, dining room, family room, a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility, walk-in pantry, five bedrooms, the master with an en-suite bathroom, and a further bathroom. The views from this fine property are a joy to behold and other benefits include great potential provided by the large boarded attic space with windows, gas fired central heating, a wonderful mix of outside space with enchanting wooded areas and cultivated landscaped gardens, garaging and off road parking for numerous vehicles.

Nigel Errington-Smith

23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT

RUGBY / HORSE RACING

Gloucester ruGBY into first challenGe cup final since 2006

RUGBY UNION

Gloucester Exeter Chiefs

30 19

GLOUCESTER scored two late tries to beat Exeter and reach their first Challenge Cup final for nine years.

Their first-half dominance produced only one try, as Billy Meakes touched down James Hook’s grubber kick. Exeter stayed in touch as Henry Slade knocked over four penalties. But Tom Savage and Jonny May

crossed in the final 10 minutes – either side of Elvis Taione’s effort – to see the Cherry and Whites into the final at The Stoop to face Edinburgh on May 1st. Gloucester director of rugby David Humphreys said: “We’ve talked about

Cheltenham Coney Hill

5 12

CHELTENHAM ended a disappointing season with a encouraging 12-5 home defeat at the hands of Western Counties North league champions Coney Hill. Things did not start well, with Coney taking a 7-0 lead in the fifth minute as wing Ben Kline outstripped the Cheltenham defence for a try in the corner, with Wayne Mullern adding the conversion. As the game continued Coney dominated in both the tight and loose and it looked like a case of deja vu,

thinking back to the earlier fixture when Coney scored 64 points. In the 10th minute, veteran prop Steve Price playing possibly his last game scored a well worked unconverted try. Cheltenham made their first really impact on a stubborn defence in the 23rd minute when flank forward Sam Pickles made good ground only for his offload ball to be fumbled and the opening chance went begging. Encouraged by this minor success Cheltenham produced some enterprising moves trying to breakdown the Coney Hill defence. Just before the half-time whistle, lively number nine

Ben Lockhart just failed to touchdown his deft chip ahead with Hill’s Jack Digby winning a foot race for the ball in the dead ball area. Cheltenham kicked off the second half with a strong wind at their backs, using their short passing moves to effect, laying siege to the Coney Hill back line, and staying camped inside the visitors’ 22. But Coney Hill showed why they were so hard to break down, with resolute defending, followed by a period of end to end play with both sides snuffing out possible openings until the 73rd minute. Cheltenham full-back, Alistair Lowther, side stepped his way over for what was to

HORSE RACING >> continueD froM BacK paGe

There will be a massive gap in racing on his retirement as there are no jockeys riding presently who come near him in terms of innate ability and motivation. McCoy‘s last mount is likely to be Mr Mole in the Celebration Chase at the Esher venue. Transformed this season from a bit of a rogue horse to a talented one by champion trainer Paul Nicholls, Mr Mole has a good chance of providing McCoy with a last winner in what is normally a small field. It has already won well at Sandown earlier in the season and was considered good enough to contest the Champion

Chase at Cheltenham this year. The state of the ground is an unknown at this stage but if anybody can get the horse home in front McCoy can. The feature race is the Bet365 Chase (for years known as the Whitbread Gold Cup) in which some Grand National runners are likely to turn out again. The race over three miles five furlongs is however usually won by a fresh horse specifically aimed at the race. Le Reve falls into this category, and at 10/1 presently, is considered good win and place value. Whatever the outcome, the day will be all about AP Coy and if there is an opportunity to go racing, Saturday might just be the day to go.

what’s going on behind the scenes not always being reflected in team results, but I thought tonight was the first time all year we produced a really really good performance, from the first minute to the last. That was reflected in the scoreline.”

positive ﬁnish to poor season for cheltenham RUGBY UNION

Mccoy in sandown fairwell

be the last score of a disappointing season with a fine solo unconverted try to end the campaign on a high. CHELTENHAM: Moore, Farmer, Carter, Athey, Barrowcliffe, Hillier, Pickles, Lait, Lockhart, DelbrookeJones, Edwards, Brookes, W Scott, Morris, Lowther. Replacements: Clifford, Etheridge, Herbert. CONEY HILL: Price, Nicholls, Pettigrew, Stephens, Petelo, Griffin, Webb, McCrae, Bebber, Mullern, Kline, Cock, Morgan, Digby, Barnett. Replacements: Jordan, Hall, Hamlin. Referee: Charles Osbourne. Star man: Tom Lait.

another Mullins Beneﬁt at the punchestown festival? HORSE RACING

THE Punchestown Festival gets under way next Tuesday (28th) and runs for five days at the Irish venue. All conquering trainer Willie Mullins has stated his intention to run at least six of his Cheltenham Festival winners at the meeting together with unlucky loser, Annie Power. The state of the ground will determine exactly which horses run and in which race but with the likes of Douvan, Don Poli, Faugheen and Djakadam in his fold a pin is unlikely to be necessary to

find winners. Notwithstanding that, the track is completely different to Cheltenham and if the going were to ride quick there could be some shocks. The most interesting race from a betting perspective is the Punchestown Gold Cup on the Wednesday (29th) likely to feature Gold Cup second and third Djakadam and Road to Riches and possibly rising star Don Cossack. If the ground were on the good side the Cheltenham places are likely to be confirmed but if it went soft Road to Riches may get his head in front. Fascinating stuff.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

SPORT

FOOTBALL

Service seal County League title in style CHELTENHAM Civil Service are the new Marcliff Gloucestershire County Football League champions after they thumped a very poor Southmead CS Athletic side 13-0. The writing was on the wall right from the kick-off as Jack Sklenar broke down the left and fired a cracking left foot drive from a tight angle past goalkeeper Danny Cook. Within a minute the home side went 2-0 up when Stuart Midwinter broke clear down the right before hammering the ball into the far corner from the edge of the box. Midwinter made it 3-0 on 14 minutes when he neatly skipped past his marker to drive the ball home. It was 4-0 after 22 minutes this time Sklenar forged down the left and

squared the ball across goal where Stuart Mitchinson was waiting to pounce. Southmead did not have any answer to the constant flow of attacks by the league leaders as Sklenar rounded the keeper to slide the ball into an empty net for number five after 35 minutes. Worse was to come in the second half as the home side completely dominated the game and were practically parked in the Southmead half. A minute into the second half Mitchinson netted his second with a clear shot on goal from around 12 yards. Cameron Smith got in on the act in the 55th minute hammering the ball into the net from just inside the box. Midwinter was put clear on goal in the 58th minute to complete his hat-trick. Just a minute later substitute Scott Goodhall made

his mark with a fine goal and Sklenar waltzed through the visitors defence to bring the score to double figures and complete his hat-trick in the 62nd minute. Jamie Bish who had also come on as a substitute then made it 11-0 from the penalty spot two minutes later. A second strike from Smith in the 68th minute made it 12 and then Sklenar headed home from

a corner for the 13th. The home side eased off the gas as the visitors had to complete the game with 10 players after Coghlan left the field with an injury and they had no substitutes. The visitors did show willing in the last 10 minutes creating several half chances but the result was never in doubt and if it had not been for some excellent saves from the

Kings up to fourth after fine away display CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Star FC lll 2 Kings Reserves 4 AS THE season draws to a close both teams were determined to battle this match out. Star are still in relegation danger while Kings were trying to achieve a top four finish. Kings stamped their authority on the game as early as the fourth minute when they had survived some early Star pressure and broke down the pitch where Pete Maddox opened up the Star

defence and put Matt Hill in the clear. He took on the keeper and coolly slotted the ball past the advancing Brown to put Kings ahead. Kings almost doubled their lead when Johns set up Robbie Hughes and as he cut back onto his tight foot he unleashed a shot that Brown did well to keep out. Star also had their chances when they struck the crossbar on 31 minutes. In what was an evenly contested period of the game, it was Kings who worked a sublime goal. Matt

Youth ﬁnals held at Whaddon Road THE Cheltenham Town sponsored Cheltenham Youth Football League will be hosting their cup finals at Whaddon Road over the next two Sundays, with the kick-off times as follows: Sunday, April 26, at Whaddon Road

Hill started the move with a great ball across the face of the penalty area, first Maddox and then Johns dummied before Gareth Bee slotted it through for Maddox to make it 2-0. The second half saw Kings begin to get on top. With two minutes gone they should have made it 3-0 when Matt Hill sent over a pin point pass to Maddox lurking behind the full back, but his shot was well wide. On 55 minutes Hughes finishing offa flowing move to notch his second of the match.

Under-9: 10.00 – Leckhampton Rovers Pythons v Leckhampton Rovers Mambas Under-10: 11.15 – Bishops Cleeve Colts v Lydney Town Youth Under-11: 12.30 – Leckhampton Rovers Harriers v Southside Lions Under-12: 14.00 – Cheltenham CS Youth Blues v Worcester Colts Sunday, May 3, at Whaddon Road Under-13: 10.00 – Shurdington Rovers

Kings started to sit back and Star took advantage of this and pushed more players forward. They got their reward on 75 minutes with a neatly headed goal. Spurred on they continued to press and on 85 minutes they cut in from the right and left Griffiths no chance to make it 3-2. With time running out Kings extended their lead as substitute Sol Griffiths picked the ball up deep in the penalty area, cut inside and hit a superb right footed shot to make it 4-2.

Wolves v Quedgeley Wanderers Under-14: 11.50 – Charlton Rovers Reds v Churchdown Panthers Under-15: 13.40 – Leckhampton Rovers Cougars v Painswick Youth Under-16: 15.40 – FC Lakeside v St Marks Juniors Wednesday, April 29, at Kayte Lane, Bishop's Cleeve FC Under-18: 19.00 – Shurdington Rovers v FC Lakeside

visitor’s keeper, Danny Cook, in the second half the score-line would have been much bigger. Bishop’s Cleeve Res eased their relegation worries with a resounding 6-1 win over bottom club Berkeley Town. Giles Elliott gave the home side the lead in the 15th minute with a fine shot into the far corner. Chris Parsons made it 2-0 on 25 minutes and then

Ben Robinson scored with a great shot from the edge of the box 10 minutes later. Midway through the second half Ash Hill made it 4-0 when he scored direct from a corner. Then James Pickup netted the fifth from the penalty spot. Martin Smith pulled a goal back for Berkeley in the 80th minute, but Cleeve’s Adam Gill replied three minutes later with a sixth.

afC Cheltenham lose out in County Cup final CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

ALDERTON claimed the Sunday Intermediate (North) County Cup with a 2-0 victory over AFC Cheltenham at Bishop's Cleeve's Kayte Lane ground. After hitting the woodwork three times, Alder-

ton’s opening goal came after an hour when winger Lee Bowles scored directly from a corner. Matthew Greaves curled in the second from a freekick on the edge of the box to make it 2-0 and AFC Cheltenham missed a late penalty. photo: laura woodrow

COUNTY FOOTBALL

23 APRIL 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT

FootBaLL

CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

WHADDON United left themselves three points away from claiming the Division One crown in the Cheltenham League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford after beating Falcons 3-1 last Saturday. The results leave them four points ahead of FC Lakeside with two games left to play. With United facing Lakeside in the last game of their season they will be keen to wrap up the title when they travel to Upton Town on Saturday. At the bottom Kings AFC continued their good run with a 3-1 win over Bishop’s Cleeve III. Cleeve’s 1-0 victory over Newton FC last Thursday night moved them off the foot of the table and left Hanley Swan in bottom spot. Kings leap-frogged their opponents and moved into ninth spot, something that looked beyond them two months ago. Despite taking a two goal lead, Cheltenham Civil Service were unable to take all three points against Andoversford in their Division Two clash. The visitors claimed two second half goals to peg the league leaders back. With second placed Staunton and Corse losing 42 at Southside. Service missed an opportunity to put real pressure on Corse who have two games in hand but trail by five points. Travelling to a Southside team who are Division Two’s most in-form team of 2015, Corse found themselves 2-0 down within the first 10 minutes. Southside opened the scoring through Sean Middlecote with a neat header from a Tom Mounsey's cross before extending their lead through a Rob Curry penalty. On the stroke of half time the home team extended

Photo: Lydia Viney

Cheltenham League round-up

Staunton and Corse's Jordan Cross and Southside's Joe Kynaston-Smith

their lead further, Josh Coakley scoring his first ever Southside goal, smashing the ball in the top corner from 22 yards. Staunton came out fighting in the second half and their relentless pressure saw them pull one back within the hour. The Southside defender out jumped the Staunton striker to head home. Southside manager Colin Wright introduced some fresh legs in attack which saw them go further in front after a swift counter attack, allowed Jacob Nowell to square the ball across goal to substitute Jack Edwards to tap in back post. While Southside were denied more goals by Staunton goalkeeper Alex Salter, Staunton got one final goal back to finish the scoring off. The defeat may prove academic in the grand scheme of things, with the news that bottom club Northleach appear likely to withdraw from the league. With just one win this season, ironically against Corse, the expunging of their record will have a significant impact on the destination of the title much to

the annoyance of teams battling for the title. At the foot of the table, the withdrawal of Northleach will see Shurdington Rovers take bottom spot despite a fine 2-1 victory over WMK last Saturday. With top and bottom already settled in Division Three, the battle is now on for second place. A 0-0 draw with Fintan on Thursday has seen Brockworth Albion hand the initiative to Leckhampton Rovers. The teams are level on thirty five points although Rovers have a game in hand. Albion also face league leaders Welland in their final game on Saturday and will need to take at least a point if they are to stand a chance of overtaking Rovers. Cheltenham Civil Service III will be kicking themselves after slipping to a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Smiths Athletic in their final game of the season in Division Four. After Service’s defeat midweek they had to watch in vain as leaders Northway were beaten 4-1 by Leckhampton and Apperley. The team directly below them in third, were held by Smith’s. Northway remain top, two goals separating them from

Apperley with both teams on thirty four points, as are Service. Apperley and Northway meet next Saturday, a game that is critical in terms of deciding the destination of the title. Victory for Apperley could see the title decided on goal difference, with Northway needing to beat Smiths in their final game in order to draw level on points. At the bottom there are three teams who could end the season in last place with one game left to play. Winchcombe Town Reserves currently fill the bottom spot but three points for them against Kings AFC Reserves could see them overtake Star FC Reserves and Bourton Rovers III depending on how other results go. FC Lakeside Reserves laid down their marker in Division Five with a 16-0 hammering of bottom team Sherborne Harriers. The win, in their last league game of the season, leaves Lakeside in top spot, two points ahead of Cheltenham Civil Service IV. Service have two games left to play and know they need at least three points

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due to Lakeside’s superior goal difference. They could wrap the title up on Thursday night when they host Staunton and Corse Reserves, leaving them to enjoy Saturday’s game against Cheltenham Athletic, knowing the title will already be theirs. Malvern Value moved into second place in Division Six after beating Andoversford III 4-1. Vale trail Fintan Re-

serves by a point but have a game in hand. They face their biggest challenge on Saturday when they face Cheltenham United. The teams met on Easter Monday and United thumped their opponents 80. The game also saw three Vale players receive red cards. Fintan will be hoping United do them a favour and there is another twist in the race for top spot before the season finishes... Fintan play their final game on Saturday against Apperley Reserves. If they slip to what would be only their second defeat of the season, they could also be overtaken by United.

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PLayer ProFiLe oF the Week This week's featured player is Stefan Hunt who plays for Bishops Cleeve III in Division One. In what has been a far from vintage season for the club, the third team ensured they avoided bottom spot in Division One with a 1-0 victory over Newton FC in midApril. With one game left to play they could finish as high as eighth although that will depend on other results as well as them taking three points against Falcons in their final game. Name: Stefan Hunt Nickname: Stiff or Hunty Present club: Bishop’s Cleeve Previous clubs: Cheltenham Saracens, Southside Position: Centre-half. Emergency forward when needed Favourite player: Was Ryan Giggs, now Wayne Rooney Team supported: Manchester United

Most memorable game: Versus Star FC in April 2013. We were fighting relegation and needed one point to confirm our safety. Cleeve took an early 2-0 lead however we found ourselves 3-2 down with five minutes to go. I scored a 25 yard half volley in the final minutes to secure the point. Toughest opponents: Whaddon United – always a good test for me and the team Best club player: Our goalkeeper James Trigg – ever present and saves us so many points in a season Worst game: Every game we lose because I hate losing, but we've had too many again this season, in another relegation battle.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 23 APRIL 2015

SPORT

with JON PALMER, SPORtS EditOR jon@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

BOSS Gary Johnson says Cheltenham Town will battle until the very end as they bid to retain their Football League status with just two matches of the season remaining. They go into Saturday’s home match against title chasing Shrewsbury Town in the bottom two, one point adrift of Hartlepool United and one point ahead of Tranmere Rovers. The Robins failed to follow up their impressive 3-1 home victory over Cambridge United, going down 2-0 at Johnson’s old club Northampton Town last weekend. Goals in the second half from Ivan Toney and returning skipper Marc Richards were enough to sink Cheltenham, who lost skipper Matt Taylor to an ankle injury. “We were thrown around by Northampton and we didn’t show any strength in our mental or physical state,” Johnson said. “It’s going to be a big turnaround, but it can still be done. We’ve also lost our captain to injury as well, but we have to keep going. “We didn’t have enough play and I am not one to tell fibs. We didn’t play well enough to warrant anything and I feel sorry for the supporters.

PHOTOS: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA

We Will fight until the bitter end, says robins boss Johnson

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End of Era as McCoy rides into the sunset horse raCing

By JAMES dALy

“But we’ll do all we can to keep this team up so let’s wait and see. We still have a couple of games left. “We need players back from injury and we need more out there and more on the bench. “We need to be better than two other teams to stay up and Northampton is not an easy place to come. “They have some good individual players and we didn’t get near them often enough, but we’ll see how we cope against Shrewsbury

next week. “The team tried to work hard, but the quality was lacking with crosses and set pieces and there wasn’t a goal opportunity due to a lack of quality.” Northampton took a deserved lead in the 57th minute when Lawson D’Ath’s cross from the left was touched in from close range by Toney for his 10th goal of the season. The lead was doubled in the 70th minute when Richards, who had been on the pitch for three minutes,

received D’Ath’s pass, made room for a shot and fired past Trevor Carson emphatically. Substitute Joe Hanks, who replaced the ineffective Kane Ferdinand in the first half, hit the bar for Cheltenham, but they never threatened to fight their way back into the game. NORTHAMPTON TOWN: Jalal; Moloney, Diamond, Collins (c), Horwood (Carter 86); D’Ath, O’Toole, Byrom, Holmes; Toney

(Gray 75); De Girolamo (Richards 67). Subs not used: Duke, Hackett, Tozer, Perry. CHELTENHAM TOWN: Carson; Berry, Taylor (Deaman 44), Brown, Braham-Barrett; Ferdinand (Hanks 29), Sparrow, Richards, Kotwica (Williams 85); Manset, Harrad. Subs not used: Mills, Gould, SterlingJames, McDonald. REFEREE: D Sheldrake. ATTENDANCE: 4,539 (459 from Cheltenham).

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TWENTY time National Hunt champion jockey Tony McCoy rides in his last race ever at Sandown Park on Saturday. McCoy, still in his prime, decided he wanted to go out at the top and announced his decision to retire three months ago. His record as a jockey is unsurpassable with well over 4,000 winners on the book and he will be forever known as the punters friend for his dogged determination to win every race. Linked to local trainer Jonjo O’Neill and retained by Irish racing magnate JP McManus, McCoy has won many Cheltenham Festival races and the Grand National but is also feted for his willingness to travel to Plumpton on a wet Monday for one ride in his pursuit of winners. TURN TO PAGE 21 >

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