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www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk 31 DECEMBER 2014 ISSUE 24 Your discerning local weekly newspaper
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The Cheltenham Standard would like to wish all our readers a very Happy New Year
HRH IN TOWN HRH The Prince of Wales dropped into the Sue Ryder Hospice in Leckhampton just before Christmas Day. His Royal Highness has been a great supporter of Leckhampton Court Hospice since 1986 and always makes sure that he pays them a special visit every other Christmas to
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spend time with the patients, and to find out about how the Hospice is developing its services. This year’s visit took place on Monday 22 December. The Prince was met by Elise Hoadley, Hospice TURN TO PAGE TWO >
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
Cheltenham WeatherWatch WEDNESDAY 31st Dec Min 7ºC Max 8ºC THURSDAY 1st Jan Min 7ºC Max 12ºC FRIDAY 2nd Jan Min 3ºC Max 9ºC SATURDAY 3rd Jan Min 4ºC Max 7ºC SUNDAY 4th Jan Min 5ºC Max 8ºC MONDAY 5th Jan Min 5ºC Max 10ºC TUESDAY 6th Jan Min 5ºC Max 8ºC
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Editor’sDESK 2014 IN Cheltenham may well go down as a year of galloping complacency by a host of our major players as far as the management of this great spa town is concerned. Some might argue that they (the borough and the county councils) have done everything they can within their limited budgets to keep the town on an even keel in terms of services. In a sense I do agree that they have done the required minimum, but just like wee Jonny or Gill at school they ‘could have done better’. I often wonder when they self-select on their own achievements do they think; ‘well-done us’ or ‘we were crap’. It’s a sobering thought that perhaps the former thought might be the order of the day. Champagne all round then? In a year where we still have men sleeping rough, APCOA parasites handing out County Council parking tickets and no clear direction on Boots Corner, then the mud and mire that seems to surround local Government is still as thick as committeeled treacle. What do we have to do to make some changes? Surely it can’t be that difficult to manage a small town? Easy for me to say…I’ve never tried it. Common sense must be the watchword as is the need to be expedient and fair with the populace in dealing with all things local. No doubt there will be an outcry in the next month or two as the potholes take a winter grip on the town. And again (as in every year) we will all point the finger at the County Council for not fixing them properly in the first place. And of course we will also say …what do you do with the money? If we haven’t got enough money in the budgets to fix the roads then increase the taxes to pay for it. Currying favour with the taxpayer in not increasing the council tax this coming year but leaving us with un-drivable roads is false economy and vote-caching stupidity. I don’t know any other system or business where you know something goes wrong on an annual basis and yet you don’t fix it. And also knowing your customers (the taxpayer) will moan. Wonder how long say an airline would last if they operated like that, or a Royal Borough in London where the Queen is driven on didn’t do something about it…or indeed a newspaper? Can’t help feeling the pothole story will, like the Mousetrap, run and run this year. Perhaps the townsfolk will have to mount the barricades to get some action on the things that really matter. Hmm, maybe not, might make the Prom look scruffy!
Cheltenham Standard is published weekly by Cheltenham Standard Ltd is registered at Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Montpellier Drive, Cheltenham, GL50 1TA. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, heltenham Standard Ltd will not accept liability for loss or damage. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor publisher accepts responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. All rights reserved. ISSN no. 2055-2092. Terms and conditions at www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk
The Prince of Wales visits Leckhampton CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
Director and Sue Ryder CEO, Heidi Travis who said: “HRH likes to spend as much time as possible talking to our patients whenever he visits. HRH went straight into our art studio and spoke to our Day Hospice patients about their watercolour paintings and shared techniques.’’ She went on to say, ‘’HRH was updated on our new Day Hospice, which officially opened in June 2014, following donations from local supporters and a grant of £202,707 from the Department of Health. The King’s Fund, of which HRH is President, offered us guidance and support on the interior design of the new building, to ensure we created a healing and tranquil environment.’’ The Day Hospice’s new treatment and therapy rooms were shown to HRH and
Sandra Flannagan, Day Hospice Manager, explained, “We are now able to offer onsite blood transfusions and other clinical treatments, which allow our patients to retain their independence for as long as possible. Offering pain and symptom management onsite also helps individuals to stay at home for as long as possible, instead of being admitted into our inpatient unit, or hospital.’’ Elise Hoadley, Hospice Director finally said, “Christmas should be time of celebration and even though our patients and their loved ones are going through a very difficult time, we strive to make sure that they have as enjoyable a time as possible. We cannot thank The Prince of Wales enough for taking the time to visit us just a few days before Christmas, and for giving our patients and their loved such an extra special memory that they can treasure forever.”
Two convicted of benefit fiddling at Christmas CHELTENHAM Borough Council had double success in the run up to Christmas as two women pleaded guilty to benefit fraud. Both cases also included benefits claimed from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Chloe Ashton, 42, now of Sedgley Road, Bishops Cleeve but formerly of Albemarle Gate in Cheltenham, pleaded guilty to eleven charges of dishonesty. The Court heard that she started work for the Paint it Yourself Pottery Company in 2004 but did not tell anyone until 2010, when she ended her income support claim and declared the work by forging letters in the name of the company’s owner. Ashton told the council she had started 16 hours of work, when in fact she was working 15 hours and a further 9 hours at Millbrook Academy, a job she started in 2009. The investigation started after a tip off and Ashton’s trail of deception which lasted over 9 years came to light. The total overpayment was just under £20,000 and magistrates gave her credit for her early guilty plea and sentenced her to a Community Order with a curfew for 45 days from 7 pm to 7 am, plus costs.
In a separate hearing, Zoey Mansfield, 31 of Cam Road pleaded guilty to two charges of making false statements to the DWP and Cheltenham Borough Council by failing to declare that her partner was living with her. This offence spanned 20 months and resulted in an overpayment of £17,500 of housing and council tax benefit, plus income support. The magistrates sentenced her to a conditional discharge for two years plus costs. Both women are also repaying the monies they acquired through their fraudulent behaviour. Ruth Jones, senior benefits investigation officer said: “We continue to work with partner agencies to identify fraudulent claims, stop the money and bring the offenders to justice. There are a lot of hardworking people in the town who will be angered by the behaviour of these women as they helped themselves to taxpayers’ money out of greed at a time when many families are feeling the pinch.’’ If you wish to report possible fraud please ring 01242 264215, or email BenefitsFraud@cheltenham.gov.uk. All information can be given in confidence.
31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Trident nicked from Neptune’s fountain ONE of Cheltenham’s most iconic landmarks ‘Neptune’s Fountain’ is missing its trident. The trident, which Neptune holds in his hand atop the famous fountain in the Promenade, went missing just before Christmas. It was first noticed missing on the morning of 21 December 2014 and after being returned to the fountain by a member of the public, was taken again sometime during the following Sunday. The council are asking the public to help in finding the missing trident. Garrie Dowling, senior property surveyor, said: “Neptune’s Fountain is one of Cheltenham’s most iconic landmarks, and is popular with tourists and photographers, so it’s sad that an integral part of the fountain has been taken. We’re hoping this was just partygoers getting carried away during the Christmas celebrations over the weekend and it will be returned to us safely. “The Police will be looking at CCTV records to see if we are able to find out more information, but we are keen to ask the public to get in touch if they are aware of anything.” If anyone has any information on the missing trident please contact the Police Control Room on 101 quoting incident no. 77, 21/12/14.
Assault on man Lone female grabbed by male in Hesters Way POLICE are investigating a suspicious incident involving a male and lone young female which took place in the Moors Park area of Cheltenham at approximately 2.30pm on Saturday 27th December. Officers are trying to trace the man who is described as being between 5'10'' and 6 feet tall, wearing dark (blue/grey) clothing, a hooded top and possibly a scarf. The male, who is of athletic build, tried to grab the female in the park in broad daylight. DI Gavin Webb from Gloucestershire Police, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is a serious incident. Luckily the man was disturbed by a member of the public who saw him grab this young woman. The member of the public shouted out to him, the suspect then ran off. “This is a busy area and I am sure someone else would have seen something. “If anyone noticed a lone male acting suspiciously in the Moors Park area yesterday please can they contact me by calling 101 and quoting incident no. 201 of 27/12/14. “I would also remind members of the public to remain vigilant in and around this area.”
LOCAL Police are appealing for information following an assault on a man in Hesters Way. The assault occurred outside a grocery store on Friday 5 December at about 9 pm when the suspect left a store and rode off on the victim’s bicycle after it was left outside the shop, with the victim being assaulted when he challenged the suspect. The bicycle was recovered. Upon exiting the shop, the suspect was accompanied by a female and small child. The victim was punched approximately six times in the face and needed hospital treatment for a hairline fracture to his left eye socket, a small cut to his face, and swelling to left eye and face. The assault took place in the middle of Barbridge Road. A black Volkswagen Passat is believed to have come past during the assault but did not stop. Police are keen to speak to any witnesses in the car, who were heard to call out as they went past. Police are releasing CCTV images of the assailant, who is believed to have shoplifted some goods and hidden them down his trousers as well being suspected of GBH. The suspect is described as male, white, mid 20s, 5' 11'' tall, black hair, wearing a blue Nike hoodie jacket and jeans. Anyone with information about this incident, or believes they know the identity of the woman or child, is asked to contact Gloucestershire Police on 101, quoting Incident 508 of 5 December and crime number CR/028632/14.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
Local Colour Sergeant Kevin Fortuna fund reaches £100,000 THE father-in-law of a soldier killed in Afghanistan said his relatives have now raised £100,000 in his honour. Colour Sergeant Kevin Fortuna, 36, who was raised in Cheltenham died in a blast in Helmand Province in May 2011. After the death of his son-in-law, Mike Jackson and his family chose to raise money for the forces charity Help for Heroes. Their initial target was £10,000, but continuing fundraising events have seen them reach 10 times that amount. The money raised will go towards the cost of building several recovery centres, including one already opened in Colchester. Colour Sergeant Kevin Fortuna was killed by an improvised explosive device. Colour Sgt Fortuna had also previously served in the former Yugoslavia, Northern Ireland and Iraq. He was leading a patrol with 1st Battalion The Rifles when he was killed by an improvised explosive device. The fundraising began in January 2012 and three years later it has reached £101,755. Mr Jackson said: “When we got to the £100,000 mark it felt like it’s a stepping stone along the way, so we’ve provisionally reset the target to £125,000. “The people who we are supporting are going to need our support for the next 50-70 years. “We can’t say ‘job done’, so we keep going.”
Jet Age Museum buys Gloster Javelin
THE Staverton-based Jet Age Museum has won a tender process to buy a rare aircraft, built in the county in 1956. The Jet Age Museum said the aircraft, which has no engine and is not airworthy, was the “world's only surviving” FAW 4 Gloster Javelin. It is expected to be transported to the Staverton base in the New Year. The Ministry of Defence is selling the aircraft which has spent more than two decades at the gates of RAF Leeming in North Yorkshire.
Once at the museum the jet, bought for an undisclosed sum, will be assessed before a fundraising campaign is launched to pay for its restoration. “We are delighted to have secured the future of this rare example of the famous Gloster fighter,” said museum chairman, Darren Lewington. “Built at Hucclecote in 1956, this is the worlds only surviving FAW 4 Javelin and spent much of its operational life as a test and trials aircraft at GAC (Gloster Aircraft Company).”
The company built planes using jet engines which had been designed by British engineer Sir Frank Whittle, who died in 1996, aged 89. Its first jet plane, the Gloster E28/39, was developed at the Gloster factory-airfield between Gloucester and Cheltenham. Its official first flight was at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire on 15 May 1941. Sir Frank's son, Ian, is a patron of the Jet Age Museum which has had 25,000 visitors since it reopened in August 2013.
31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Morrisons to launch online food service in Cheltenham for the new year RESIDENTS of Cheltenham will be able to order from Morrisons’ online delivery service for the first time on Monday (5th January), as the service extends to cover a further 5,487 sq kms of the South West. In less than two weeks, its distinctive yellow vans will be delivering groceries to a further 846,473 homes. Morrisons expects its online service to receive a head start in Cheltenham, as it offers free delivery slots for the first 30 days. Many of its shoppers, including those at the Caernarvon Road store in Up Hatherley already shop online but until now it has been with one of its rivals. They are expected to be the first shoppers to sign up. The supermarket will look to maintain its existing 96% success rate for delivering ontime and a product substitution rate of less than 1% as it moves into Cheltenham. Also, as part of Morrisons’ ‘Great Service Everyday’ approach, customers will be able to book one hour time slots and will be given the opportunity to check the freshness of the products before accepting them. Simon Thompson, Managing Director of Online Food at Morrisons, said: “We’re delighted to arrive in Cheltenham. We want to challenge preconceived ideas of online grocery services by surprising shoppers with just how good an experience it can be with us.” Cheltenham residents can visit www.morrisons.com to determine whether their home is located within the serviced area.
Supermarket offering free deliveries for first 30 days to entice new customers
60% of people in Gloucestershire are planning to make New Year Resolutions But nearly a third (32%) will be breaking their resolutions by the end of January ACCORDING to recently published research an impressive 60% of people in the county are planning to make New Year resolutions. However the research, undertaken by YouGov also suggests that almost a third (32%) of people in the region will break their resolution by the end of January. The research also revealed that this trails behind most regions in the number of people looking to lose weight in 2015 (30%), compared to a national average of 35%. However the survey revealed that nationally more women would be interested in learning a new make-up tip for 2015 (48%) than said they were resolving to lose weight in the coming year (40%).
Whilst only 5% said they were planning to give up smoking and 11% confirmed they were planning to stop drinking or reduce their alcoholic intake in 2015. This Morning’s celebrity make-up artist, Bryony Blake, is brand ambassador for ‘Take 5’ during January and is sharing some of her top make-up tips for 2015. 31% want to learn how to apply their eye make-up, whilst a quarter said they were keen to learn more about improving their skin and foundation techniques. She said: “we can all give ourselves a lift for 2015. As well as working with celebrities, I make up lots of different people, but one thing that always rings true is small positive changes to how we normally do things really do make a differ-
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
‘Sing-along’ raises £350 for Sue Ryder CHELTENHAM’S Sandford Park Alehouse raised the roof, and lots of money, by hosting CAMRA’s Christmas ‘singalong’ in aid of the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. Grenville Hillman, on piano, led everyone in a medley of carols, traditional pub songs, modern classics and favourite songs - in return for donations to the charity. He was joined for part of the evening by a ukulele band. A raffle raised more money. Prizes included a 10 Litre Polypin of Cotswold Lion Beer, bottles of rare, 25-year-old, Thomas Hardy’s Ale, barley wine and many other festive prizes. Veronica Emary, Chair of Cheltenham CAMRA, said; "Sue Ryder's Leckhampton Court Hospice treated two of our loyal and committed past members with
Becky Andrews and Gino
amazing care and consideration, so this is our way of saying thank you. The exact sum raised was £355.73 - plus US $6! “The pub was chock full of CAMRA members, regulars and people who just wanted to support the great work that Sue Ryder carry out at Leckhampton, their Hospice at Home service and all the crucial and invaluable family support that they provide at a time when people really need it.’’
AgonyAunt Kimberley Wall SO Christmas has come and gone and hopefully as the New Year approaches you are feeling fed, loved and have found your place of peace which always helps when looking at the year ahead with a calm perspective. Do I believe in resolutions? I am a fan actually. I think it’s the best time for us to put change into action if we are not happy with something. While we are able to achieve change at any time of year, I think it’s a great motivator to try it at a time where it’s easier to train our minds to focus on new beginnings. I agree with the current thinking that focusing on resolutions which aren’t negative in nature (giving something up) but positive in outcome (starting a new sport) are more likely to last. I also think that making a resolution specific and measurable is more likely to keep you motivated (i.e. to do two workouts a week or write a chapter of a new book a month is more achievable than ‘going to the gym more’ or ‘writing a book’). It may also be helpful to focus on one change at a time rather than bombard yourself with various new demands because the more fun you can make the process the better. Creativity also inspires us: want to enhance your life? Why not create a resolution that’s a little different? For example, volunteering for a local cause once a week? Or signing up for a new evening course at your local college? If you want to meet some new likeminded people in your area why not start a new hobby? Or if the future feels you with dread, your relationship is strug-
Prize pooch nominated for major gong in 2015
gling or you are finding it difficult to move on from a past relationship then why not make it your mission to tackle and try to free yourself from these worries this year and book an appointment with a Relate Gloucestershire and Swindon counsellor (on 01242 523215, charges apply). Maybe the approach is to reflect on 2014 and build on your successes of last year. Either way please don’t put too much pressure on yourself and if a resolution feels draining before you’ve already started maybe it’s worth rewriting it. Any change is easier to achieve if you can feel positive about it. Happy New Year.
A LOCAL dog lover and her remarkable pooch are hoping for a final spot in the Kennel Club’s Eukanuba Friends for Life competition at Crufts 2015, after receiving a prestigious nomination. Gino, a three-year-old Labrador Golden Retriever cross, has been nominated for the gong by the Canine Partners charity who provided the specially trained mutt in September 2013 to Cheltenham’s Becky Andrews. The Kennel Club’s Eukanuba Friends for Life competition celebrates heart-warming stories of friendship in adversity, where dogs have truly earned the title of man’s best friend, through bravery, support or companionship. And 33-year-old owner Becky, who was born prematurely with cerebral palsy and is unable to walk as a result, admitted that without Gino her story would be a very different one. “Before Gino came, life had become very hard,” she said. “I lost my job and was struggling to find employment. “Days were often very long and lonely. Although I have friends, many of them work during the day so I began to feel quite low. “Since I have been partnered with Gino every day seems so much brighter; every day now has a real purpose with
him by my side.” Gino assists Becky in all aspects of her life, from getting washed and dressed in the morning to helping with shopping and getting to and from work, giving her more independence and confidence. And they will be hoping for a trip out for the Kennel Club’s Eukanuba Friends for Life showpiece on March 8th when Chris Amoo, dog lover and 70s pop sensation with the band The Real Thing, hands the trophy to the winner. Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club spokesperson, said: “People have sent us such moving and inspirational stories that truly demonstrate how important dogs are to our lives and what a difference they make to us, both in our best times and when things are tough. “Becky and Gino are thoroughly deserving of this nomination and the Kennel Club wishes them luck in the Friends for Life competition. “Of course, every dog that has been entered is a Friend for Life in the eyes of their owner and help to remind us what it is that makes the relationship between dog and man so very special. “Each and every one of the finalists has helped to change and save lives in their own unique and special way.”
31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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CULTURE
THE LIVE LINE-UPS AS usual, the TV schedule for New Year’s Eve looks dire. Your choices are yet another James Bond movie, Christmas University Challenge or World's Strongest Man. In which case, you'd be better off heading into Cheltenham and celebrating the end of 2014 and start of 2015 with some live music courtesy of one of the many events happening around town. 5 Undercover at Exmouth Arms – This five-piece party band play a wide range of
popular music from the 60's to the present day. From The Beatles and Madness, to Daft Punk and modern rock, they will have something in their repertoire to get you dancing. All Stars Dub Band at Cotswold Inn – Promising the party of the year, The Cotswold Inn host the All Stars Dub Band. Playing ska and dub originals, the band bring the feel of Jamaica to Cheltenham (without the 30 degree
John D’Ambrosio at Monty’s Cocktail Bar
heat). DJ Scratch Perry supports.
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My Design at St Paul’s Tavern – My Design are Bishops Cleeve Cheltenham Winchcombe rock and pop covers 22 Church Road 436 High Street 11 North Street band who offer 01242 673300 01242 245350 01242 604888 something a little different. They play covers with uplifting originals. Having unique versions of rocked up pop classics, from the 1980's to today. Imagine previously appeared on Britain's Got Talent, he has played pubs and clubs Green Day covering Bonnie Tyler and you up and down the country (as well as have the right idea. larger venues such as Wembley Arena) with his freestyle guitar and energetic Over The Hill at Bayshill – Established in vocals. 2005, Over The Hill are a Gloucestershire based 5 piece band who play new wave, Tommy Lewis at Norwood Arms – Exclassic rock, blues and soul. Expect Chip Shop Boy Tommy Lewis is taking his classics from the likes of Bruce piano and my high spirits to the Norwood Springsteen, Dire Straits and Arms to see in New Year. He'll be blasting Stereophonics. out floor fillers whilst you hastily make resolutions. Sax Appeal at Albion House Social Club – Sax Appeal are a dynamic and talented Rock and Indie Night at 2 Pigs – female fronted duo who play a range of Finally, the best party on New Year's classic songs from all of the decades. Van Eve can always be found at the 2 Pigs. Morrison, Amy Winehouse and Katrina & Going right through until 4am, the The Waves all get the Sax Appeal alternative venue will be bringing you treatment. The band claim to be the the maddest indie, punk and rock party 'perfect combination,' so there's certainly of the year. Get there early to guarantee no denying that these ladies can blow entry. their own trumpets too (well, saxophones). For more local music news visit Behind The Scene Gloucestershire John D’Ambrosio at Monty's Cocktail Bar www.facebook.com/behindthesceneglos - John D’Ambrosio blends sing-along
Book The Zest Formula REVIEW By Abi Holgate By EVE SEYMOUR LISTEN up, ladies. If you’re feeling jaded after the Christmas festivities and the thought of New Year’s resolutions to swear off booze and chocolate seems daunting, look no further than this self-help guide for ahem... ladies of a certain age. Guys, you heard it from me, you’re off the hook. The driving theme of the guide is to make the most of one’s life and ensure that it’s lived happily and healthily, with zest and no regrets. All you need do is follow the steps laid out in The Zest Formula and your life will change for the better. The usual suspects are rolled out:
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the importance of eating, sleeping, exercising, reflecting, having fun and engaging with others. Written in a friendly style, the advice on offer is clearly researched, well intentioned and practical. Cheltenham-based author, Holgate states that much of her improvement regime came about through painful personal experience. So the proof is in the proverbial pudding – although I’m not sure we’re allowed to eat it! Enthusiasm is admirable but the overarching message is delivered with born again zeal. It’s barking to claim, as the author does, that the book will help you make the ‘right’ decisions. Sweeping statements abound: ‘Despite all the material wealth, we are sicker
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mentally and physically than we’ve ever been.’ Says who? Too often, (and I’m sure it’s not intended) the book strays from worthy into polemic and, at times, is patronising. One does not normally need a lifestyle coach to negotiate life’s vicissitudes. Sagely, Holgate maintains that, as we are unable to change the past, we should look to the present and future. True, yet it’s our past – and the target readership is women who have plenty of past – that often make us who we are and, in certain cases, explains why some have limited zest for life. The book skirts the psychological and social reasons for destructive behaviour. Without addressing these, it’s a moot point as to whether you’ll get women incorporating exercise and diet into their average day. And do forty-somethings, who are already juggling jobs and careers, teenagers, school-runs, step-kids, ailing or stroppy parents need yet
another set of bullet points to put on their already bulging ‘to do’ list? Thankfully, the author acknowledges this. While nobody would argue with the importance of looking after one’s health, and let’s face it there’s enough information in the media, common sense dictates that we don’t need to be put through our paces and live our lives according to a ‘magic formula’ in order to be empowered. If you enjoy diagrams, goal-setting and want your hand held, go for it. Some may prefer to live a little and do the best they can. The Zest Formula is published by Panoma Press at £14.99 Eve Seymour is a freelance writing coach and the author of seven crime fiction novels. Beautiful Losers will be published by US publisher Midnight Ink early 2016. To see more details of her work visit www.evseymour.co.uk
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
QUIRKY NEWS
SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT...
A selection of the strangest stories from around the globe
Millwall FC study in progress SOCIOLOGY students at a sixth form college are being offered a trip to a Millwall match so they can see 'working class culture' in action. Students of Varndean College in Brighton have been told to expect to see 'racism, homophobia and hyper masculinity', reports the Daily Telegraph. The AS-level sociology students are being offered the chance to watch Millwall's away match against Brighton and Hove Albion at the Amex. A poster for the trip says those involved will be able to see “gender performance” in action, including types such as “the new lad” on show. But Millwall FC appeared less than happy with the idea of being studied as a sociological phenomenon. “It does make me wonder why they chose Millwall for that,” a source at the club said.
One Varndean sociology student and Millwall fan said describing the club as notorious was “a bit outdated as we're no longer in the 1980s.” But she found the idea of the trip “humorous”, adding: “Millwall fans are thick-skinned and used to criticism.” Pete Bailey, head of sociology at the college, said “it just so happened” that Brighton's home match with Millwall was the only evening match around this time of year. “As part of the AQA AS Sociology syllabus on Culture and Identity, students are expected to study the relationship of identity to gender and social class among other things, also the relationship between leisure activities and identity,” he said. “Going to the football provides an opportunity to look at some of these things outside the classroom.”
VENTING SPLEEN… Local man about town, Tom Thurlow lets loose
W
ell readers, 2014 has been quite a year for me. I purchased my first regency property, wined and dined year round in Montpellier and treated myself just this month to a brand new Mercedes Benz sports car. But all hasn’t been as well in Cheltenham itself. Allow me to count down Cheltenham’s Top 5 worst events this year. 5. Opening of Smyths Toy Shop. It was gridlock mania in November of this year as hundreds of parents (without internet access) descended to the opening of this new toy shop. Quite why it was so overcrowded I’ll never get my head round. Mums in their twenties packed their little brats into the car, wasted 5 miles worth of petrol, struggled to find a parking space in a rammed car park and then rummaged through a busy store to pay full RRP price for a who-cares-doll. Have these chavs not heard of Amazon? Don’t bother
giving Smyth’s your business. I could understand if it was a local, independent but the reality is they’re just a faceless Irish company who’s invaded our town for the dollar. Avoid. 4. Christmas Lights Switch On. Now this must’ve been a sick joke played on us by our council this year? The miserable lot at the Cheltenham Borough Council didn’t lay on a SINGLE event this Christmas. If you wanted to see some lights go from off to on you had three choices but they were all held at PRIVATE shopping centres. Council spokesman Martin Quantock tried to pull the wool over your eyes with this comment: “I’m not saying we’re greedy but we do have three light switch-ons and so much activity so I think that
makes up for it.” The three events he refers to were held at The Regent Arcade, The Beechwood and The Brewery. But come on Martin, you didn’t have any light switch-on events of your own did you? Pretty pathetic for a town as prosperous as ours if you ask me. 3. Charity Diamond Hunt. Quite possibly a contender for my worst event to happen in Cheltenham this year if only it hadn’t raised money for charity (which I guess is a good thing). This event really drew out Cheltenham’s most embarrassing residents; you know, the ones that can’t afford to buy anything themselves. By George – two blokes even used the diamonds they found to pop the question on one knee to their cheap girlfriends. Before I get asked why are they ‘cheap’. After being asked the question in such humiliating circumstances, they said yes, which can only mean they have no class just like their boyfriends. 2. Food & Drink Festival. On paper I should love this festival.
Let’s face it, I love getting absolutely rat faced on a Friday night on the finest vodkas, wines and champagnes that Whole Foods graciously stock my cupboards with. And then of course there’s my food cupboards right next door stocked up on the best grub money can buy. But on arrival at this year’s F&D Fest I couldn’t help but feel it was all a little cheap. Stewards greet you in high-vis tops and stamp your hand like I’m going into a nightclub. Throughout the festival I’m walking past either really crappy independent stalls with mediocre produce or I’m actually passing highly established local businesses who are just adding on a couple of quid to what is normally served at their store anyway. The day was saved by being invited into the champagne tent and getting pissed with the rah-rah crowd, but otherwise it would’ve been a total disaster to walk among the peasants sampling cold curry.
1. Cheltenham Monopoly Board. This absolutely takes the crown for being the absolute worst atrocity to happen in our town for the entire year. I take my hat off to the entrepreneurial company behind the manufacture of a Cheltenham themed version – obviously it was going to bring in some coin. But to the residents who have spent their money on this garbage, you must be dull and lifeless. To spend £25 and fantasize over the idea of owning virtual property such as, Imperial Gardens or our town’s Gloucestershire Echo you’ve got to be so mind-numbingly boring and whose outfit and appearance at a party is so god awful to look at, I would have to take my glasses off as a HD version of yourself would force me to overdose on heroin. The game was unoriginal with no edge or risk. I’m also gutted with how supportive Waitrose have been by stocking it and promoting it so visibly; you sellouts.
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
31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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BAREBACK, BUT NO HELMET A NAKED cyclist has been stopped and charged by police in New Zealand - for not wearing a helmet. Officers said they weren’t concerned that the man wasn't wearing any clothes or that he appeared to have been drinking. But they were not happy about his lack of a protective helmet while cycling in the city of Timaru. Senior police sergeant Randel Tikitiki has said that the man wasn't charged with indecent exposure, because “tat would depend on what could be seen.”
CoffeeBreak
Although he was under the influence of alcohol, a New Zealand Transport Agency spokeswoman confirmed that no legal alcohol limit for cycling currently exists. However, she said that he could still be charged with the offence of careless use of a vehicle. “While impairment on its own would unlikely result in a conviction, impairment combined with erratic driving behaviour - weaving all over the road and getting in the way of other drivers -possibly could,” she said.
Your Weekly HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 20 – April 18): How's that karmic footprint of yours looking nowadays? Spiritual concerns will inform your more material ones in the months to come. TAURUS (April 19 – May 19): What you need is a game plan aimed at sustainability. Luckily you know some people who can help make that happen.
DOG SHOOTS MAN A WYOMING man is recovering in hospital after his dog accidentally shot him with a rifle. Johnson County Sheriff Steve Kozisek confirmed that Richard L Fipps, 46, was wounded after his dog stepped on a loaded rifle in the back of his pickup truck. The rifle’s safety catch was off and the gun accidentally fired, shooting Mr Fipps in the left arm, reports the Huffington Post. “The rifle was loaded and in the bed of the truck, and the dog hopped up there and either stepped on it or caused something to move and set it off,” said Sheriff Kozisek.
StandOKU!
GEMINI (May 20 – June 20): Over the next two years your relationship undergoes a dramatic transformation. This introduces sides of him you never knew existed (but secretly hoped did).
And he said the accident could easily have been avoided: “Carrying a loaded rifle in a truck is never a good idea, safety on or safety off.” Big Horn Mountain Radio reported that Mr Fipps was removing snow chains from his truck when he was shot. He was rushed to Sheridan Memorial Hospital in an ambulance. His condition was not released, but his injuries were said not to be life threatening.
CANCER (June 21 – July 21): It feels like you're on the slow track at work, but this is your chance to reconnect with what inspires you. LEO (July 22 – Aug 21): There will be a high price to pay for being creative but it's a cost worth
Word Ladder Convert the word at the top of the ladder into the word at the bottom of it, using only the four steps in between. Every word must be a valid five letter word.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Difficulty rating: Moderate
8 1 9 7 8 1 6 7 9 3 1 4 9 5 6 2 6 4 1 8 5 7 9 6 2 8 6 9 3 8 5 4 2
TARGET
R K S A I C T B O
Make as many words of four letters or more as you can. Each word must contain the center letter and each letter must only be used once. Target: 20 words good; 35 very good; 40+ excellent.
8 9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
18
19
17 20
21
22
23
Last week’s solutions (24th December 2014): Across: 1 Take good care; 7 Right; 8 Never; 9 Old; 10 Overthrow; 11 Grower; 12 Fill-in; 15 File a suit; 17 Tub; 18 Radii; 19 Title; 21 Uninterested. Down: 1 Thoroughfare; 2 Gag; 3 Outset; 4 Constrict; 5 River; 6 Drawing-board; 7 Radio; 10 Operation; 13 Litre; 14 Bustle; 16 Led on; 20 Tie.
shouldering. What you'll experience is a personal renaissance. VIRGO (Aug 22 – Sept 21): You're putting to rest a lot of ghosts. This will free you in ways undreamt of before, but be careful not to repeat the same mistakes. LIBRA (Sept 22 – Oct 22): You will be forced to question entrenched beliefs. This won't be easy because you don't see them as being outdated, but guess what? SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21): Celebrate! Saturn, the planets of tests, leaves Scorpio after two years. Of course it will return in June 2015 for a three month stay but why worry about that now? SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 20): Saturn enters Sagittarius today. It will feel like life is tightening the reins, but this is exactly what's
needed to get you moving forward again. CAPRICORN (Dec 21 – Jan 18): You're about to embark on a profound spiritual journey. This may sound hokey now, but that will change. You've neglected this part of your life for too long. AQUARIUS (Jan 19 – Feb 17): Friends in high places can help you to get what you want as long as you're willing to help them to get what they want. PISCES (Feb 18 – March 19): It's make-or-break time when it comes to your career. Over the next two years you will go from bottom of the barrel to top of the heap.
FRESH
START
SLACK
PLANS
CRYPTIC Crossword ACROSS 1. Being fond of smart clothes wins some of the padre's sympathy (6) 4. Do return notes of debt, though it's hateful (6) 9. Capability of appreciating organ in retaliatory justice (2,3,3,2,3) 10. Rocky projection will apparently produce better harvest (7) 11. 6 in 1 of sheep (5) 12. Flinch at victory by church (5) 14. Conductor of a poem (5) 18. Article removed from dirty relation (5) 19. Colonist is a compiler, about 50 (7) 21. Report of printers' strike? (4-5,4) 22. Attractive, thanks to monarch (6) 23. Go one man short at football and get defeated? (6)
DOWN 1. Continue tediously about fabulous monster? (6) 2. Current time-keeper (8,5) 3. Cut hair from hares (5) 5. Persecute 1 Down about nothing (7) 6. Too ready to disregard faults of revolting nude (13) 7. You and I in bad ends in the country (6) 8. Animal pretending to be shy before uprising (5) 13. Belittle each broken writer (7) 15. Gets us strengthening insertion (6) 16. Wakes in a crooked position (5) 17. Is into wicked porn in jail (6) 20. State flavour of it (5)
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
TELEVISION Your one-stop guide to the best tv over the New Year Period
31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
PROPERTY&HOME
PROPERTY ADVICE
NEW SEASON COLOURS FLING away the paint charts, ditch dithering over bafflingly-named colours and embrace the future - it’s red wine and copper-coloured. Clever chaps at leading paint companies Pantone and Dulux predict Marsala, “a naturally robust and earthy wine red” shade, and Copper Blush, “an orangey coppery tone,” will rule in 2015. While fashionable way-out colours, which star on the catwalk, can struggle to easily translate into the real world, these two easy-on-the-eye concoctions could not only suit most settings, but also pair well together. Even better, plumping for one or both might put an end to the curse of colour craziness. Apocryphal stories abound, of people being found gibbering in darkened rooms unable to choose between such perplexing labels as Elephant’s or Dragon’s Breath. Others simply resolve a colour crisis – décor disagreements over colour are a common cause of
couples’ rows – by falling back yet again on what’s known in the trade as ‘safeas-houses white’. In-your-face colour, it’s true, may not be for the faint-hearted, but there’s no better time to play with a warmer palette, a trend which experts say is a reaction to a more positive general global outlook, and replaces those cool blues and greens. Embracing rich but subtle hues could not only give a much-needed glow to rooms, vital throughout the remaining chilly months, but also conjure a seductive setting whose style will endure far beyond the season. Pantone’s Colour Institute, which has nominated a ‘colour of the year’ since 1990, last year opted for Radiant Orchid, a bright blend of fuschia, purple and pink, which claimed to “encourage creativity and innovation.” This time around, berry-rich Marsala promises, according to its creators, offers so much more than a different look to your walls.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
RECRUITMENT
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Lack of skills a worry for UK’s employers THE UK jobs market looks set for an upbeat 2015 but a skills shortage remains a worry. CBI expects an increase in permanent jobs and modest pay rises, but the lobby group said employers are worried about skills and regulation.
As the economic recovery is still continuing, 50% of British businesses are planning to take on extra workers in 2015, the CBI said, but a skills shortage could stop vacancies being filled. Most regions of the UK stand to benefit according to the business lobby group, while Scotland has the biggest plans for the job creation. Employers also said they would give
workers pay rises next year, though at a “cautious rate” as productivity remains weak and competition tough. UK workers are now finally benefitting from a rise in real wages, where pay growth outstrips inflation, after six years of decline. The report found that more permanent over temporary jobs would be created. Katja Hall, the CBI’s deputy directorgeneral commented: “Businesses were
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concerned that they would not be able to fill some jobs because of a lack of suitably skilled candidates. This, as well as worries over regulation directed at the flexible labour market, were considered the biggest workforce threats to UK competitiveness.’’ She went to add, “It’s a concern that the UK’s growing skills gap is now seen as the number one workforce threat to the long-term health of its economy.”
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
MOTORING
best wheels, best deals... MOTORING REVIEW
Q3 COSMETIC SURGERY
TO FIND the new bits on the 2015 Q3, you’ll need to look beneath the skin. There are some cosmetic updates, notably the upgraded headlights, but the new engines are where it’s at. The range of power units look familiar but have had a barrel-full of tweaks, with 2.0-litre TDI diesels leading the charge. There are a couple of petrol options too, including a clever 1.4-litre new to the Q3, with cylinder deactivation technology to save fuel.
FORD FOCUS LX 1.6 AUTO £3,699
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The new grille, which has a thick silver rim that also extends to meet the inside corners of the headlight clusters, is a bit less neat and classy than the old one, but entry-level SE models benefit from xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights instead of the old halogen combination. Standard full body-colour exterior trim means that the SE is only really marked by its 17-inch wheels. They don’t look racy, but they do help provide a surprisingly
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plush ride. The Q3 has been a popular second family car, and its image is spot-on for parents looking for a small - but tall premium motor to ferry the kids around with. The cabin actually feels quite compact, despite massive reserves of headroom and enough legroom to fit four adults of around six feet tall - just. The rear centre back rest folds down to leave an arm rest. There’s excellent news from the boot, though, where an assortment of hooks make it easy to put three or four supermarket carrier bags in without having to worry about finding your dairy purchases plastered all over the upholstery by the time you get home. The driving position is good, but it heavily favours people who want to sit as high as possible, at which point, the front of the roof starts to significantly cut off the upwards visibility at traffic lights. Although the biggest seller is likely to be the 181bhp diesel, the cheaper 148bhp one is worth a look. It’s strong enough for most people, economical and comes with a manual gearbox, for those that prefer them. It’s also the cheapest for fuel and road tax, and it’s pleasantly refined in terms of noise and vibration.
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FACTS AT A GLANCE Audi Q3, from £25,340 Engine: 2.0-litre diesel producing 148bhp and 251lb/ft Transmission: Six-speed manual driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 127mph, 0-62mph in 9.6 seconds Fuel Economy: 61.4mpg (17inch wheels) Emissions: 119g/km (17-inch wheels)
It absorbs bumps really well, with a plushness that a few years ago would have been alien to most Audi drivers, but there’s a layer of vibration over the top that might annoy the pickiest of punters. At more than £25,000, the Q3 isn’t cheap and faces loads of alternatives from hugely well-equipped diesel Volkswagen Golfs or even Passats, super-spacious Skoda Octavia and Honda Civic estates, and even the impressive electric Kia Soul EV and Mercedes B-Class Electric Drive. It’s very solid and has a desirable badge, but there’s more space and lower running costs on offer for the same price.
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SPORTS AND PRESTIGE 2008 08 ALFA ROMEO BRERA 2.4 JTDM QTRONIC Auto 3dr, Met Grey, Full Red Sports Leather, Climate Control, Heates Seats, Panoramic Glass SunRoof, Cruise Control, Auto Lights/wipers, 18” Alloys, 63,000 milles, S/H .....£10,995 2006 56 BMW 118d SE, 5dr Silver, Climate Control CD, Aux
Port, Rear PDC, Auto Lights/wipers, Alloys, 2 Owners, S/H .... .........................................................................................£6,695 2007 57 MINI COOPER S 1.6 3dr (CHILLI PACK) Met Black, Half Leather Sports Trim, Air Con, CD, 17” Alloys, Xenon Headlamps, S/H ..............................................................£5,495
2010 10 RENAULT CLIO 1.2 16V I-Music 3dr Met blue, sports cloth trim, air con, CD, alloys. Just 25,000 miles, S/H . . . . . . . .£5,695
2009 09 AUDI A4 2.7 TDI S-LINE AUTO AVANT, 5dr Met Grey, Half Leather Sports Trim, Climate Control, E/Seats, Dab Radio/CD, Sat nav, auto Lights/Wipers, Cruise Control, 18” Alloys, S/H ............................£12,995
2006 56 MINI COOPER S 1.6 CHILLI PACK (NEW SHAPE) 3dr Electric Blue Met, Full Leather upholstery, Satnav, Air Conditioning, Panoramic Sunroof, JCW side skirts, CD, Alloys, 1 Owner, FMSH........................£7,495
2007 07 FIAT GRAND PUNTO 1.9 TDi ELEGANZA M-JET 5DR Red, Full Leather, AirCon, CD, Alloys, 2 Owners, S/H................................£3,995
2005 05 AUDI A6 1.9 TDI FINAL EDITION Auto ESTATE 5dr Met Grey, Climate Control, Full Leather, Satnav, Cruise Control, FDC, CD, Alloys, FSH......................................................£4,495 2004 04 AUDI A3 1.6 SPECIAL EDITION 3dr Met Blue, Climate Control, CD, Alloys, 2 Owners, FSH ..................£3,995 2004 54 AUDI A6 1.9 TDI SE Auto AVANT 5dr, Met Blue, Full Leather Upholstery, Climate Control, CD, Roof Rails, Alloys..... .........................................................................................£3,995 2003 03 MERCEDES C 220 CDi COUPE Auto 2dr, Silver, Aircon, CD, Alloys, Just 67,000 miles, FSH ....................£3,295 2003 53 TOYOTA CELICA 1.8 VVTI SPORT PREMIUM 3dr, Met Silver, Full Black Sport Leather Aircon, CD, Rear Spoiler, 17” Alloys, 77,000 Miles, S/H ..........................................£2,995 2005 55 RENAULT MEGANE 1.9 DCi 130 PRIVILLEGE CONVERTIBLE 6 SPEED, 2dr Met Grey, Half Leather Sports Trim, Climate Control, Power Roof, CD, Alloys ...............£2,995
2010 10 AUDI A4 2.0 TFSi S-Line Special Condition Avant 5dr, White, Half Leather Sports Trim, Climate Control, CD, Air Bags, 19” Alloys, 1 owner, FSH.........£11,995
2011 11 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 SE AUTO, 5dr, Met Grey, Half Leather Trim, AurCon, CD, M/Function Steering Wheel, Parking Sensors, Alloys, 1 Owner, Just 90,000 Miles, FSH ........£7,495
2006 56 SKODA ROOMSTER 3 1.9 TDi 105 ESTATE Met Blue, AirCon, CD, Alloys, Huge Load Space ..................£4,495
2011 11 FIAT PUNTO 1.2 EVO 8V MY LIFE 3dr, white, sports trim, aircon, cd, alloys, S/H........ ........................................£5,495
4X4s 2007 56 HONDA CRV 2.0i VTEC EXECUTIVE 5dr, Met blue, full black leather upholstery, aircon, CD, alloys, roof rails, just 41,000 miles, FSH ...........................................................£7,495 2004 54 BMW X5 3.0D SPORT 5dr Met Grey, Full Black Leather, SAT NAV E/Seats, Climate Control, Privacy Glass, PDC, Side Steps, 19’ Alloys, S/M....................................£6,995 2002 02 TOYOTA RAV - 4 2.0 VX VVTi 5dr, 4X4 Met Green, Full Leather Trim, Aircon, CD, Alloys, Just 75,000 Miles ..........£3,195 2001 51 VAUXHALL FRONTERA 2.2 16V LTD LWB 5dr Titanium Met, Sports Trim, Aircon, CD, Alloys, Just 71,000 Miles, S/H.........................................................................£1,995
CARS & ESTATES 2008 08 FORD MONDEO 1.8 TDCi 125 GHIA 5dr, Met Black, Climate, Control, Cruise, Control, Parking Sensors, CD, Alloys, Just 59,000 Miles, FSH....................................................£6,795 2008 58 TOYOTA YARIS 1.3 TR 5dr HDi, Red, Aircon, CD, Alloys, 2 Owners, Just 24,000 Miles, FTSH ....................£5,795 2008 08 SUZUKI SWIFT 1.5 GLS VVTS 3dr Met Grey, Aircon, CD, Alloys, S/M, Just 55,000 Miles .................................£4,895 2008 08 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 CLUB 5dr Met Blue, Aircon, CD, Aux Port, 57,000 Miles, S/H......................................£4,495
DIESEL 02 02 Peugeot 206 Hdi 3 Door 60,000rm, Ice Blue Met, PAS, CD, Leather, Aircon ..............................................£1999 08 58 SAAB 9-3 ESTATE; Blue Met, ½ Leather, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys, Tinted Windows .............................................£3995 04 54 MERCEDES E270 CDi AVANTGUARDE AUTOMATIC; Silver Met, ½ Leather, Aircon, Alloys ..................................£3995 06 56 PEUGEOT 207 1.6 Hdi 110 SE; 5 Door, 65,000rm Grey Met, PAS, CD, Skyroof, Aircon, ..............................£3999 58 08 FIAT MULTIPLA 1.9 MULTIJET 120 ELEGANZA MPV; 5 Door, 73,000rm, CD, Climate Control ...............................£4499 06 06 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 2.0TDI SE ESTATE; 5d, Blue, Alloys, CD, PAS ..................................................................£4799 04 04 BMW 530 TOURING AUTOMATIC; Silver Met, PAS, CD, Leather, Air Con ..............................................................£4995 04 04 BMW 520 Touring AUTOMATIC – Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys, Sat Nav, Bluetooth ..........................£4999 06 06 HONDA FRV 2.2I-CTDI SPORT MPV; 5 Door, Blue, Alloys, CD .............................................................................£4999 06 56 VW GOLF Plus 1.9 Tdi AUTOMATIC 77,000rm, Blue met, PAS, CD, ABS, Aircon, Alloys ...............................£5499 05 05 Audi A3 2.0 Tdi SPORT 3 Door 79,00rm, Black, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys ....................................................£5699 08 08 Honda Civic 2.2 Tdi TYPE S 3 Door 91,000rm, Grey Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys ......................................£5999 07 07 Volkswagen Golf 1.9 Tdi MATCH; 5 Door, Grey Met, PAS, Cd, Aircon, Alloys ..............................................£5999 08 58 Volkswagen Golf 1.9 Tdi BLUEMOTION; 5 Door, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys .....................................................£5999 07 07 VOLVO V70 S AUTOMATIC ESTATE; 71,000 rm, Blue Met, PAS, CD, ABS, Aircon, Alloys ......................................£6495 07 57 BMW 1 Series 1.8; 3 Door, Grey Met, PAS, CD, front and rear parking, Aircon, Alloys, bluetooth .............£6499 08 08 AUDI A6 2.0 Tdi S LINE AUTOMATIC; Silver Met, PAS, CD, ½ Leather, Airocon ............................................£6499 06 06 MERCEDES E220 CDi AVANTGARDE Auto ESTATE; Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, ½ Leather ...............................£6995 07 07 HONDA CRV EX 101,000rm, Black Met, FSH, Sat Nav, LEATHER, Rear Camera, Heated Seats ...................£7999 09 09 BMW 320 CD M SPORT COUPE; Grey Met, PAS, CD, ABS, Alloys ................................................................£8995 09 09 BMW 520 SE AUTOMATIC ESTATE; Grey Met, FSH, PAS, CD, leather, Climate A/C, Sat Nav. ...............................£9495 EXECUTIVE 01 51 LEXUS IS200 2.0 V6 4 door 72,800rm, PAS, CD, ½ Leather, Climate Aircon, Alloys ...................................£2699 08 08 CHEVROLET CORVETTE Coupe 6.0; 21,800 rm, PAS, CD, Aircon, Leather - Stunner!! ....................................£27495 4x4 10 60 VOLVO XC70 D5 DIESEL AUTOMATIC AWD; Silver Met, PAS, CD, Leather, Heated Seats, Sunroof, Sat Nav .......£11495 04 04 MITSUBISHI PINNIN ELEGANCE; 86,000 rm, Silver Met, PAS, Leather, CD, Alloys, Aircon ..................................£2695 02 02 AUDI A4 QUATTRO ESTATE 2.5 V6 DIESEL Grey Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys ..............................................£3999 04 04 LANDROVER FREELANDER TD4 HSE; Estate,Diesel, 87,000 rm, Silver Met PAS, Black Leather, CD, AC..............£5499 06 06 AUDI A3 2.0 T QUATTRO; 3 Door, Black Pearl, PAS, CD, Leather, Heated Seats ...................................................£6499 CONVERTIBLE 01 51 MAZDA MX-5; 1.8 77,000rm, light Blue Met, LEATHER, Alloys, Aircon .....................................................£2795
2007 57 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 SXi 5dr Black, Sports Trim, Aircon, CD, Alloys ............................................................£4,495 2007 56 PEUGEOT 207 1.6 SPORT 5dr, Met Blue, Aircon, CD, Parking Sensors, Alloys, Just 44,000 Miles, FSH ...........£4,495 2007 07 FORD FOCUS 1.6 ZETEC CLIMATE 5dr Met black, climate control, CD, sports trim, alloys, 2 owners, 64,000 miles, FSH ..................................................................................£3,999 2010 60 SUZUKI ALTO 1.0 SZ3 5dr White, aircon, CD, RCL, 47,000 miles, SH..............................................................£3,995 2004 54 MINI COOPER 1.6 3dr Black eyed purple, white roof, sports trim, aircon, CD, alloys, S/H .................................£3,995 2008 08 CITROEN C1 1.0 RHYTHM 5dr, Black, PAS, E/Windows, CD, Just 38,000 Miles, S/H .........................£3,995 2007 57 SUZUKI SWIFT 1.3 GL, 3dr White, Cloth Trim, Aircon, CD, Lowered suspension, privacy glass, 17” Alloys ......£3,895 2005 55 FORD FOCUS 2.0 TITANIUM 3dr Black, Half Leather Sports Trim, Aircon CD, Alloys, S/H................................£3,795 2006 06 SEAT IBIZA 1.4 16V SPORT 3dr, Met Blue, Sports Trim, Aircon, CD, Alloys, S/H...........................................£3,795 2006 55 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 TWINPORT CLUB 5dr Met Grey, Aircon, CD, Alloys, Just 66,000 Miles S/M ............£3,695 2007 07 VAUXHALL MERIVA 1.6 ENERGY, 5dr Met Blue, Aircon, CD, privacy glass, 67,000 miles, 2 owners, FSH........... .........................................................................................£3,495 2005 55 RENAULT CLIO 1.4 16V DYNAMIQUE 3dr Met Blue, Sports Trim, Aircon, Panoramic Roof, CD, Alloys, Just 54,000 Miles .................................................................................£3,495 2006 56 FORD FIESTA 1.4 GHIA 5dr, Met Silver, Full Black Leather, Air Con, CD, Alloys, S/H ....................................£3,495 2003 03 MINI COOPER 1.6 (CHILLI PACK) 3dr, Silver/Black Roof, Half Leather Sportts Trim, Air Con, CD, Harman Kardon, S/H, 172 Alloys ................................................................£3,495 2004 04 VOLVO V50 2.4 SE Auto ESTATE 5dr, met black, full cream leather upholstery, aircon, CD, roof rails, alloys, 77,000 miles, S/H.........................................................................£3,495 2004 04 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.6 DESIGN 5dr Met Grey, Half Leather Trim, Aircon, CD, Alloys, Just 72,000 Miles .......£3,295 2005 55 FORD FIESTA 1.25 Style Climate 3dr, Silver, Aircon, CD, PAS, Airbags .............................................................£3,195 2004 04 VOLKSWAGEN POLO 1.9 TWIST 3dr, Met Blue, Aircon, CD, Alloys, Just 82,000 miles, S/H .....................£2,995 2006 06 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.4 SXi 5dr Met Grey, Sports Trim, Aircon, CD, Alloys, 2 Owners .................................£2,995 2003 53 MINI ONE 1.6 3dr, Black, CD, Alloys, S/H ......£2,995 2004 04 TOYOTA YARIS 1.4 D-4D T-SPIRIT 5dr, silver, aircon, CD, alloys, S/H.................................................................£2,895 2006 56 CITROEN C2 1.4 SX 3dr Met Blue, Aircon, CD, 2 Owners.............................................................................£2,795 2004 04 FIAT DOBLO 1.9 JTD DYNAMIC MPV 5dr, Met Blue, Air Con, CD, Alloys, Sliding Side Doors, S/H .................£2,695 2004 54 CITROEN XSARA PICASSO 1.6 DESIRE 2 5dr, Met Blue, Air Con, CD, Removable Seating, 2 Owners, S/H ...£2,495 2007 57 CHEVROLET MATIZ 1.0 SE 5dr Met silver, aircon, CD, RCL, 52,000 miles, S/H ............................................£2,395 2004 54 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.2 TWINPORT ENERGY, 3dr, Silver, Air Con, CD, PAS, Alloys, Just 67,000 miles, S/H ...£2,295 2004 04 FIAT PANDA 1.2 DYNAMIC 5dr (PACMAN), Blue, Blue/Grey Trim, CD, PAS, Airbags, 71,000 Miles, S/H....£2,195 2003 03 FORD FOCUS 1.4 CL 5dr, Met Silver, CD, Airbags, E/Windows, Just 86,000 Miles ........................................£1,995
05 54 RENAULT MEGANE DYNAMIQUE; 72,142 rm, Silver Met, PAS, recently serviced, CD, Alloys, Aircon....................£2995 07 57 VW EOS 2.0 Tdi DIESEL CC 99,000rm, Blue Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys ...................................................£5999 06 06 VW BEETLE 1.9 Tdi DIESEL 72,000rm, Black Met, Full cream leather, PAS, CD, Alloys ...............................£6299 07 57 SAAB 9-3 1.9 TiD DIESEL 150bhp VECTOR 71,800rm, Blue Met, Full cream leather, CD, ABS, Aircon, Alloys ..£6499 07 57 BMW 320i SE CC Silver Met, PAS, CD, Black Leather, Aircon, Alloys ..........................................................£8499 CARS 03 03 CITROEN SAXO 1.4 FURIO; 3 Door, 72,00rm, Red Met, PAS, CD, Alloys, Sunroof, Elec Windows .......................£1495 03 53 MAZDA 323F SPORT 2.0; 5 Door, Blue Met, PAS, CD, Air Con, Alloys ...............................................................£1799 04 04 SUZUKI IGNIS 1.3 GL vvt 5 door 76,000rm, Silver Met, PAS, Elec windows ...............................................£1799 52 52 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT 2.0 S SALOON; 4 Door, Black, 67,000rm, CD, Climate Control..........................................£1995 04 54 FORD MONDEO 2.0 ZETEC AUTOMATIC; 5 door, Silver Met, PAS, CD, ABS, Aircon ......................................£1999 03 53 MERCEDES A140 Classic SE LWB; 60,845rm, PAS, Central Locking, Elec Windows .........................................£2495 05 05 PEUGEOT 206 1.4 SPORT 3 Dr 87,000rm, Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys ...........................................£2499 04 04 TOYOTA AVENSIS 1.8 T3-X 5 Door 94,000rm, Blue met, PAS, CD, Aircon ....................................................£2595 06 56 RENAULT SCENIC 1.6 OASIS 85,000rm, PAS, CD, Aircon ............................................................................£2699 02 52 FORD FOCUS 2.0 ST 170; 5 Door 80,300 rm. Grey Met, PAS, CD, V2 Leather, A/C.............................................. £2995 05 05 VOLKSWAGEN POLO 1.2 Twist; 3 Door, 81,000 rm, Blue Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Elec Windows ..........................£2995 55 06 FORD FIESTA 1.25 STYLE; 3 Door, 78,000rm, Red, CD, Aircon, Heated front windscreen ..........................£2995 04 04 HONDA JAZZ 1.4I-DSI SE HATCHBACK; 5 Door, Blue, 100,000rm, Hatchback, CD, PAS ......................................£2999 05 05 FORD FOCUS 1.6 ZETEC Climate 74,600rm, Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon ...................................................£2999 05 05 TOYOTA COROLLA 1.4 T3; 5 Door, 75,000rm, Blue, CD, Climate Control ......................................................£3295 06 06 FORD FIESTA 1.25 ZETEC; 83,000 rm, Flame Red, PAS, CD, Alloys ...................................................................£3495 06 56 FORD FOCUS 1.6 LX; 5 Door, 67,591 rm, Blue Met, FSH, PAS, CD, Aircon, Elec Windows, Alloys ........................£3495 07 07 VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.4 Sxi; 5 Door, 72,000rm, Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys .....................................£3699 05 05 HONDA CIVIC 1.6 AUTOMATIC; 54,000rm, Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, LEATHER ......................................£3999 07 57 VAUXHALL CORSA 1.2 CLUB; 3 Door, 14,000rm, Silver Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Elec windows .....................£3999 53 04 MINI ONE 1.6 COOPER S HATCHBACK; 3 Door, Red, 100,000rm, Hatchback,16in Alloys .....................................£3999 05 05 BMW 1 series 5 door Grey Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys ...........................................................................£3999 07 57 VOLKSWAGEN POLO 1.2 S; 5 door 40,000rm, Black Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, Alloys .....................................£4999 04 04 MINI COOPER S 91,000rm, Grey Met, PAS, CD, Aircon, ½ leather, .............................................................£4499
31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
19
MOTORING MOTORING REVIEW
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAIL – PORSCHE 911 GTS
ON first looks the 911 GTS might look very familiar, but this particular variant is all about the details. In the grand hierarchy, the GTS sits between the quickest ‘normal’ variant – the Carrera S - and the precision track instrument that is the GT3. Not only does the GTS fill this gap for buyers who want something a little madder but not bonkers, it also bridges a significant price void too. So your GTS comes with a more powerful 3.8-litre engine, unique suspension tuning, the choice of two or four-wheel-drive, coupe or convertible, Turbo-look front spoiler, gorgeous centrelock wheels and the wider body. Added together, these additions would cost more from the options list, so you’re getting a
little something for nothing. Although the basic shape is the same, the 911’s looks depend very much on the model you choose. The GTS has that bigger Turbo front bumper with bigger scoops which makes it look more aggressive, but this is balanced by the wider body at the rear. Add in those beautiful centre-lock alloy wheels and, depending on the colour, it undoubtedly looks superb. A Carrera S looks a little more pure, but it’s less fussy than the fullon Turbo. The GTS badge also has kudos of its own amongst 911 fans; it’s not just another special edition and demands respect. The 911 in any guise is still a relatively compact car and sticks with the so-called
2+2 arrangement. That means two proper seats in the front and occasional seats in the rear, although the GTS does give you the option to delete the rear seats if you wish. It’s the front seats you want to be in of course, and you get leather-trimmed sports seats as standard that are very comfortable and supportive. Being rear-engined, the boot is in the front, but it’s actually quite spacious and the space is a sensible shape. Storage space inside is a little more tight however. The key mechanical changes to the GTS
make themselves felt as soon as you drive away. With a unique suspension tune and one that is a little stiffer than the Carrera S, the GTS is clearly more focussed. However, the standard-fit Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) means you can dial up three different suspension settings to suit the conditions. That means it’s still capable of being used every day without causing you grief. But it’s when it is being stretched that the GTS comes in to its own. The stats show it is more powerful and faster than a Carrera S, but, as the driver, all you know is that it is a sensationally quick car. The engine crackles away (helped by the standard sports exhaust) as the revs rise and it feels so torquey and unburstable you can rev it hard or make it slog. When driven hard the GTS’ class shows; sharp and communicative steering, unshakeable brakes and beautiful poise. It’s hard to want for anything more. All versions of the GTS bar the fourwheel-drive Cabriolet check in under £100,000, which is still a lot of money. But compared to the Carrera S, the amount of standard kit added for the modest price increase is well worth it; it’s also significantly cheaper than the more desirable but harder to live with GT3.
FACTS AT A GLANCE Porsche 911 GTS, £91,098 Engine: 3.8-litre unit producing 424bhp and lb/ft of torque Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 189mph, 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds Economy: 32.5mpg combined Emissions: 202g/km of CO2
Audi A6 2.7 Quattro £2995 Full Service History, What a car!
Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 Life £3495 5 door Low mileage.
Hyundai i30 1.4 Comfort £3995 5 door Full Service History
Nissan X-Trail 2.2 DCI 136 T-Spec Sat Nav £4995 Full Service History
STAVERTONCARS
Honda Civic 1.6 SE 5 Door £1895 Low Mileage
Happy www.stavertoncars.co.uk | 07732 611211 New Year
Audi 1.8 SE. £9795 Full Audi Service History, Low Mileage.
Mercedes C Class 2.1 C220 CDI Classic SE auto diesel £5995 Full Service History
Nissan X-Trail 2.2 Diesel Sport £3995 Full Service History
Staverton Garage, Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 0TF
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22
CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
SPORT WHADDON United entered the Christmas break top of the tree after a 3-0 victory at Gala Wilton Reserves saw them move top of Division One of the Cheltenham League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford. Playing their game in hand, United overtook leaders FC Lakeside who were not in action. However it will be United’s turn to take a break when the action is back underway on Saturday as Lakeside host Newton FC, a team they beat 4-0 earlier in the season. A recent run of poor results, including a 21 defeat to AC Olympia in their last outing, has seen Churchdown Panthers’ title challenge fade. Kev Taylor will be hoping his team start 2015 with a win. They face Gala Wilton Reserves on Saturday who sit two places and one point below them. At the bottom Kings AFC find themselves two points adrift of Bishops Cleeve III. Both teams face top five teams this weekend and
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Cheltenham League round-up know they will need to upset the odds if they are to start moving up the table. A captain’s goal from Neil Wheeler was enough to beat Tewkesbury Town and move Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves to the top of Division Two. They head Staunton and Corse on goal difference although Corse have two games in hand. Both teams are in action this weekend and with Service facing bottom club Northleach they will be hoping to keep the top spot for another week. Welland cruised to the top of Division Three with a 2-0 win at Charlton Rovers Reserves in the only game in Division Three prior to Christmas. The win sees them move ahead of Leckhampton Rovers and they have the comfort of playing a game less than Rovers on top of
A fascinating New Year’s Day Racing ahead HORSE RACING CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE
Melodic Rendezvous (Jeremy Scott) boasted a rating as high as 163 and was a triple Grade Three winner over hurdles. After finishing third over hurdles on his seasonal debut at Haydock Park on November 22 behind The New One, the eightyear-old made a winning chasing debut at Bangor on December 17, when scoring by half a length from Boondooma. Melodic Rendezvous was due to run at Leicester yesterday, December 28, but that meeting was abandoned and trainer Jeremy Scott is now considering options for his stable star. Scott, based at Brompton Regis in Somerset, said: "We are just reviewing where we will go next with Melodic Rendezvous. He is in at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day and will also be given an entry at Plumpton (January 4). “We ideally wanted to go to Leicester yesterday with him as I didn’t want to put too much pressure on him. "I wouldn’t rule out going to Cheltenham, but I would prefer an easier option if that is possible and that is why I swerved going to Kempton with him. "He is ready to rock and roll and we will look at the ground and what Plumpton is looking like before coming to a decision. He needs to get some experience over fences as he is going chasing relatively late in life. "He was just a bit slow and cautious on his first start over fences but I was happy enough with him and the horse he beat has gone on and won since." The richest race on New Year’s Day at the Home of Jump Racing is the £50,000 Grade Three BetBright Best For Festival Betting Handicap Chase (1.55pm) over two miles and five furlongs. The 15 entries include Caid Du Berlais
(Paul Nicholls), who has already taken a major prize at Cheltenham this season when successful in the Paddy Power Gold Cup at The Open. The champion trainer could also be represented by top-weight Rolling Aces and Fago. The 2012 Stan James Champion Hurdle victor Rock On Ruby (Harry Fry) features among 18 entries for the £25,000 Dorman Engineering Hurdle (3.05pm) over an extended two and a half miles. The nine-year-old was successful last time out at Cheltenham, recording a comfortable two and a quarter length success in the Grade Two Osborne House Relkeel Hurdle at The International on December 13. Other interesting contenders include Cole Harden (Warren Greatrex), a Grade Two winner at Wetherby in November, Beat That (Nicky Henderson), who has not been seen out since winning a Grade One novices’ hurdle at Punchestown in April and Garde Le Victoire (Philip Hobbs), who landed the Grade Three StanJames.com Greatwood Hurdle at Cheltenham on November 16. New Year’s Day gets underway at 12.10pm with the £10,000 Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle. The 21 entries for the extended two and a half mile contest include Zeroeshadesofgrey (Neil King)who has won all three of his starts over hurdles, most recently scoring by a facile 33 lengths at Doncaster on December 13. The £20,000 BetBright On Mobile Handicap Chase (12.45pm, 25 entries) over an extended three and a quarter miles, the three-mile £20,000 BetBright Casino Handicap Hurdle (2.30pm, 22 entries) and the concluding £20,000 Listed EBF Cheltenham Pony Club Standard Open National Hunt Flat Race (3.40pm, 23 entries) over an extended mile and the three-quarters, complete the card.
their two point lead. At the bottom it has been a miserable start to the season for Shurdington Rovers and their new manager Kev Cole. After taking over from Chris Ibbotson earlier in the season Cole’s men are yet to claim a point from their first five games and are six points adrift at the bottom of the table. Cole’s task does not get any easier this weekend when he faces Leckhampton Rovers. He will be hoping his blend of youth and experience will come back after the break with renewed vigour and start to get some points on the board. There were some crucial games at the top of Division Four prior to Christmas. Northway went into the weekend at the top however the result of the weekend saw them lose their unbeaten record to Leckhampton Rovers who came out 4-3 winners. This result meant Apperley’s 2-0 defeat of Cheltenham Civil Service III saw them move top on goal difference ahead of their opponents and Northway. At the bottom Tewkesbury sit on minus three points following a points deduction for a broken fixture. They are currently six points adrift of Winchcombe Town and will be hoping they have move luck in 2015.
The top four team in Division Five were all in action before Christmas and all recorded wins to maintain their push for the title. Cheltenham Athletic currently lead the way by a point although they have played at least two games more than the teams that trail them. This Saturday second placed Staunton and Corse Reserves host Cheltenham Civil Service IV who sit in fourth place. With a number of teams so closely bunched matches like this could go a long way to deciding who will be in the title fray come April. At the bottom FC Barometrics III went into the break off the back of a 7-0 hammering at the hands of FC Lakeside Reserves which included four goals from Ryan Gourley and a hatrick from Edward Farrell. Malvern Vale and Fintan Reserves both boast 100 percent records in Division Six and both recorded comfortable victories in their final match of 2014. Regency Town also signed off the year with an impressive victory, handing Cheltenham United their first defeat of the season with a 4-3 victory and gaining revenge for the 7-0 beating they received at the hands of their opponents in November.
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31 DECEMBER 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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SPORT PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
Local Football
De Vita leaves Robins, Taylor is placed on transfer list FOOTBALL
PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
RAFFAELE De Vita has left Cheltenham Town after the expiry of his short term deal at Whaddon Road. The Italian midfielder made his final appearance for the Robins in the 1-0 Boxing Day defeat by Exeter City. "We would like to thank Raffa for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future," manager Paul Buckle said. The 27-year-old former Bradford City and Swindon Town man made 10 starts and three substitute appearances for Cheltenham after arriving on a three month deal at the end of September. Meanwhile, midfielder Jason Taylor has been played on the transfer list and made available for loan or permanent move when the window opens in January. The 27-year-old started the first two matches of Paul Buckle's reign as manager, but he has since been left out of the match day squad for three games in succession. He started the season on the transfer list, but forced his way back into the first team picture during Cheltenham's bright start to the season. He was sent off in the 1-0 home defeat by Southend United on September 16. Taylor, who joined Cheltenham from Rotherham United in January 2013, has made 21 appearances this term and a total of 63 starts and 11 substitute appearances for the club, scoring three goals. His contract expires at the end of the campaign.
Deflected goal enough to sink battling Robins at Exeter Exeter City Cheltenham Town
1 0
CHELTENHAM Town suffered their first ever defeat by Exeter City as Paul Buckle endured a disappointing return to St James Park on Boxing Day. Buckle enjoyed three separate spells as a Grecians player before starting his coaching career with the Devon club. His assistant Rob Edwards and skipper Matt Taylor were also popular players at Exeter, who are led by the longest serving manager in the Football League, Paul Tisdale. Cheltenham lost Taylor and midfielder Joe Hanks to injuries in the first half, with Jack Deaman and Zack Kotwica going on in their place. Taylor faces two weeks on the sidelines with a grade one hamstring strain, while Hanks should be back in contention for Saturday’s trip to Oxford United having suffered mild concussion after an accidental collision with team mate Lee Vaughan.
Tom Nichols scored the only goal of the game in the 62nd minute, seeing his low shot roll into the bottom left corner off the outstretched boot of Deaman. Nichols also saw a deft chip bounce back off the woodwork with Trevor Carson beaten, but Cheltenham had their chances. Troy Brown saw a header cleared off the line in the first half, while Matt Richards’ shot was blocked in the box after Kotwica nodded down Lee Vaughan’s cross at the far post. It was a tight game and it was 0-0 at half-time which I was delighted with because Exeter are a very good side,” Buckle said. “We contained them really well, other than the one that hit the bar, which was a piece of class, they never really hurt us. “It was tough in the sense that we lost Matt Taylor and Joe Hanks, but the boys that came on were positive and it’s the best we’ve used the ball. I’d say that’s our best performance since I’ve been at the club. “The final ball, or shot, is the toughest thing in football, but there is loads to be positive about.
“We looked dynamic, we had legs and the only thing to be disappointed about is the result. “The goal took a wicked deflection, off young Jack’s studs and crept in the corner. Trev had it covered, but it came off Jack and Paul (Tisdale) won’t mind me saying, it’s the sort of luck you get when you are that end of the table, but we got into enough good positions to give us hope for the future.” EXETER CITY (4-4-2): Hamon; Bennett, Butterfeld, Oakley (c), Woodman; Nicholls (Ribeiro 73), Sercombe, Harley (Davies 81), Grimes; Nichols, Morrison (Wheeler 61). Subs not used: Ply, Koehane, Davies, Moore-Taylor, Cummins. CHELTENHAM TOWN (4-5-1): Carson; Vaughan, Brown, Taylor (c) (Deaman 33), Braham-Barrett; De Vita (Williams 80), Ferdinand, Hanks (Kotwica 7), Richards, Sterling-James; Gornell. Subs not used: Gould, Harrison, Haworth, Bowen. REFEREE: B Malone. ATTENDANCE: 4,591 (153 from Cheltenham).
PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
FOOTBALL
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 31 DECEMBER 2014
SPORT
Cheltenham Town 0
Newport County 1
PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
NEW YEAR SOCCER CAMP
New year is a brand new start for Robins says fired up boss Buckle FOOTBALL
P
AUL Buckle says January is a fresh start for Cheltenham Town as he begins to reshape his squad in the transfer window. The manager said he was proud of his team’s performance in their 1-0 home defeat by Newport County on Sunday, when they came away wondering how they had not claimed at least a point. But after six matches in charge, Buckle says he now knows which players have a future at the club and which do not. “I couldn’t do anything when I came in so it was a case of working
with the group of players already here, but now I can look at adding to the squad,” Buckle said. “It’s a fresh, brand new start because everything at the club was in need of attention and everything needed to improve. “Anyone who was at the Newport game will have seen the improvements and we have already taken it forward, but it’s now time to add one or two fresh faces to help us.” Buckle has given youth a chance since succeeding Mark Yates in the Whaddon Road hotseat, giving extended contracts to Omari Sterling-James, Zack Kotwica and Joe Hanks. Teenagers Harry Williams and
Kotwica, who both came through the academy ranks at Cheltenham, both started against Newport, with another youth product Bobbie Dale going on as a late substitute. Buckle said he was now looking to add experienced players who can help guide his prospects as they bid to establish themselves as first team regulars. “It’s a case of adding the right players and setting a healthy mentality,” he said. “The youngsters will be given a chance, but it’s now important I add to the squad carefully and any senior professional I bring in has to be willing to help the younger players.
“That’s the type I am looking for, not a selfish player, I want value for money and I will tread carefully. “It won’t be easy, but I have people in mind, I have good contacts in the game and other coaches know how I want to play.” Cheltenham kick-off 2015 with a short trip to Oxford United on Saturday (3pm), who they have already played twice this season. They beat the U’s 2-0 in the first round of the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy in September before drawing 1-1 in League Two on November 29 in what was Buckle’s first game in charge.
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Cheltenham welcomes in 2015 with New Year’s Day fixture HORSE RACING
CHELTENHAM is set to welcome in 2015 with a cracking seven-race card on New Year’s Day. A fascinating contest is in prospect for the £32,000 Grade Two BetBright Novices’ Chase (1.20pm) over two miles and five furlongs. The 12 excellent entries include Champagne West (Philip Hobbs), who has won twice over fences at Cheltenham this season, scoring at both The Open and The International. Ptit Zig (Paul Nicholls) is unbeaten in three starts over fences including a Grade Two contest at Ascot on his latest start, while Ned Stark (Alan King) is two out of two over fences. TURN TO PAGE 22>
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