Cheltenham Standard 9th July 2015 by Cotswold Style Ltd

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9 JULY 2015 ISSUE 51

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CHELTENHAM’S BIGGEST WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

TRAIN STRIKE ON NEGOTIATIONS aimed at settling a dispute over plans to axe guards and buffet cars on First Great Western's new Hitachi Inter City Express trains have broken down. Members of the RMT union went on strike yesterday, Wednesday 8th July at 6.30pm for 48 hours over concerns about safety, job losses and buffet services. The union said First Great Western (FGW) was only “going through the motions” in the talks. The strike is likely to affect pas-

sengers attending the second day and third day of the first Ashes test match in Cardiff and the Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival which also started this week. RMT General Secretary, Mick Cash, said: “RMT has made every effort to secure a series of very basic assurances from FGW over

jobs, services and safety as a result of the introduction of the new Hitachi fleet and they have shown no intention of addressing those issues in the talks today. “RMT is angry and disappointed that the company have ignored the massive vote for action by their staff and have instead opted to plough ahead with a series of actions that will decimate jobs, services and safety. “As a result of FGW collapsing the talks in this cavalier fashion

the action goes ahead as planned. “It is frankly ludicrous that East Coast, who are introducing the same trains, have given us the assurances we are seeking but FGW have ignored us and are crashing on with the ripping out of buffet cars and the threat to safety-critical station and train staff, purely to maximise the profits from new trains bought for them by the British taxpayer.” In a ballot held last week held by the RMT 80% workers supported strike action and 92% other forms of action. First Great Western said the

Come and experience awardwinning food at The Greenway Hotel & Spa with this very special two-for-one lunch oﬀer. A roman!c lunch or a catch up with a friend is all the sweeter when you’re paying half the price! ‘Two-for-one’ price £12.75 per person for 3 courses in The Garden Restaurant Normal price £25.50 per person for 3 courses Quote ‘Cheltenham Standard’ when booking. Valid Monday-Saturday. Ts and Cs apply. Subject to availability. Not valid on bank holidays and selected dates at the General Manager’s discre!on.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

Cheltenham WeatherWatch ThuRsday 2nd July Min 12ºC Max 19ºC FRIday 3rd July Min 14ºC Max 24ºC saTuRday 4th July Min 15ºC Max 20ºC suNday 5th July Min 14ºC Max 20ºC MONday 6th July Min 15ºC Max 20ºC TuEsday 7th July Min 13ºC Max 20ºC WEdNEsday 8th July Min 12ºC Max 20ºC

Princess Royal at Racecourse THE Cotswold branch of Riding for the Disabled welcomed HRH Princess Royal to its base at the Jackie Brutton Riding School on Tuesday 7th July. Cotswold RDA is situated on Cheltenham Racecourse land and this year will celebrate its 50th anniversary. The current riding school was opened by the Princess Royal in 1982 so it is fitting that she was able to visit the site to understand more about the next step that the charity intends to make. The RDA has been on its current site for over 30 years with many of the facilities in need of upgrading and the charity has plans for a new state-of-the-art centre, which will require a huge amount of

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hours the site is open. There are also 120 volunteers who give up their time to help at Cotswold RDA, but more volunteer help is always required. Claire Jenkins commented, “All of us at Cotswold RDA are delighted that HRH Princess Royal was able to visit the riding school. Her visit was a great opportunity for us to show Her Highness about what we do every day, as well as show her the exciting plans we have for the future.”

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MILS Muliaina allegedly carried out the attack on a woman in the Brewery Quarter of Cardiff on March 6th. He was subsequently arrested at Kingsholm Stadium by Gloucester Police in April before being questioned and bailed by South Wales Police. The 34-year-old, who plays for the Connacht province in Ireland, will appear at Cardiff Magistrates' court on August 7th. Ex-All Black Mr Muliaina earned 100 caps during his nine years with the international side.

fundraising to bring the concept to life. Her Highness learned more about the plans as well as the current day to day existence of the charity, which has 180 people using the horses to develop a variety of different skills. The riders, who vary between the ages of 3 and 80, suffer with either mental and/or physical disabilities. There is availability five and a half days a week, but Cotswold RDA are keen to extend the

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strike would lead to a revised timetable being operated. The first Hitachi trains will run on the Great Western main line from 2017 and the East Coast main line from 2018. In a statement from the railway company they said: “An overview of the services we expect to run is available on our website www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk. “Customers with tickets for

A former New Zealand rugby player has been charged with sexual assault

the dates affected can chose to travel on either Wednesday 8th July or Saturday 11 July and are recommended to do so, subject to any travel restrictions that would normally apply to your ticket.” “We ask holders of Advance Purchase tickets to travel as close to possible to their original booked time. For travel on the days affected Advance Purchase tickets will additionally be valid on the train immediately before or after the booked

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time. Full refunds will be available for customers who choose not to travel. Should the strike go ahead, we will also make arrangements to compensate Season Ticket holders for the days affected. The new trains are being introduced under the Intercity Express Programme (IEP) on routes between London Paddington and Oxford, Bristol and South Wales. The strike is due to be over at 6.30pm on Friday 9th July.

Inquest into Ibiza death girl opens next week THE official inquest into the death of former Cheltenham hairdresser Cara-Jayne Keirl is now due to be opened next week on Thursday July 16th. Up until now it was expected that the hearing would be conducted by the Avon Coroner's Office this week however a spokesman has this week commented that it has been now listed for next week instead. Cara died in Ibiza on June 9th. The circumstances surrounding the 28-year-old's death have not as yet been made public. She had been a pupil at Bournside School in Cheltenham before leaving in 2004 to pursue a career in hairdressing.

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9 JULY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

A decade of disgrace! GLOUCESTERSHIRE'S roads will need "at least a decade of maintenance" to bring them back to standards of the late 1990s, a highways boss has said, only a week after the Cheltenham Pothole Summit called for by our MP Alex Chalk. Councillor Vernon Smith said the county had suffered from 20 years of reactive maintenance and "that the chicken has definitely come home to roost." He said a proactive policy of pothole repair, resurfacing and surface dressing would make a real difference. But he warned the work had to be staged to avoid total gridlock. "There will be disruption and I ask the public to bear with us because they will see the benefits when it is completed," Mr Smith said. "I realise it will cause problems to businesses and the public but we have to get these roads into a good order." A schedule of works is available on the council's website.

Road Traﬃc Collision in Hester’s Way – man arrested and woman comes forward Police still hunting for one man named as Asa Martin FOLLOWING a police appeal this week for three people to come forward following a serious road traffic collision in Hester's Way on Saturday (4th July), one female gave herself up on Monday and one male was arrested on Tuesday night following information from the public. Officers are investigating an incident involving a silver Seat that was travelling on Hester's Way Road, in the direction of Princess Elizabeth Way, when it mounted the pavement and collided with two pedestrians and a telegraph pole at around 12.45pm. The occupants of the Seat were believed to have left the scene of the crash before the emergency services arrived.

A 50-year-old male pedestrian was airlifted to Southmead hospital in Bristol with head injuries and a broken pelvis and a 55-year-old woman suffered a broken collar bone, cuts and bruises. She has since been discharged from hospital. The injured man remains in hospital in a serious condition. The road was closed for six hours while a collision investigation took place. Police are now naming a man they wish to speak to urgently. He is ASA MARTIN,

29, from Cheltenham. He is believed to have been in the car, and was possibly the driver. Anyone who sees him or knows his whereabouts should not approach him but contact police urgently on 101, or 999 if appropriate, quoting incident 262 of 4th July. The man and woman have been bailed to return to police, pending further enquiries. Chief Inspector Mark Ravenscroft said, “We believe he may be in the Bristol area and possibly trying to obtain a passport so that he can leave the country. It is imperative that he is found and arrested as soon as possible. Anyone who spots Martin is urged not to approach him but to call 999 immediately.”

Kids in court with mock trial TEAMS from Years 5 and 6 representing St Gregory’s, St Mark's, Gotherington, Christ Church, Lakeside and St James primary schools took part in mock trials held in Cheltenham Borough Council's chamber. The event, held annually for primary schools in the Cheltenham area, allows Years 5 and 6 children to experience the magistrates' court environment for the first time, and through role play they are able to learn about the workings of the court system and how a trial is structured. It is set out like a real court trial and pupils from each school have to act as either a clerk, an usher, a so-

licitor, a magistrate, a defendant or a witness. Some children are also chosen as court reporters and court illustrators. Serving and retired magistrates are involved in staging the mock trials across the county in Stroud, Cirencester and Cheltenham. Andrew Tabor, a sitting magistrate, said 180 children had been involved in the competitive event in Cheltenham. The scenario this year was cyber bullying to a member of a swimming team who had lost the team a competition and the children had to take on the prosecution and defence team roles for a trial. Although a script was pro-

vided to get the children started, there was plenty of scope for them to deviate from it and ask searching questions. This helps with speaking in public and also helps to build their confidence. Congratulations must go to the children and their teachers on the amount of work they put in to make the two day event such a success. First prize for the trial was taken by St. Gregory’s ‘A’ team with St. Gregory’s ‘B’ in 2nd and Gotherington ‘A’ in 3rd place. The best overall performer going to Nicole Waring of St. Gregory’s ‘A’. Best court artist was awarded to Paris Vizor of Lakeside ‘B’ and best court reporter was awarded to Anna Slater of Christ Church Primary School. The trials were watched by Roger Head, High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, Martin Surl, Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire and Duncan Smith. Mayor of Cheltenham.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

Chalk hails “lifeline’’ for those living in broadband “e-poverty” at Cheltenham’s ﬁrst Broadband Summit CHELTENHAM’S MP, Alex Chalk, has hailed as a “lifeline’’ guarantees won for Cheltonians living in socalled ‘‘e-poverty’’ at last week’s Broadband Summit. The summit was organised by Mr Chalk and attended by senior representatives from BT, Virgin Media and the Government-backed Fastershire scheme. It saw the town’s MP seek help for hundreds of Cheltonians who are struggling to get by on sub2MB/second download speeds. Now Mr Chalk has won a pledge to help those worst affected, with the offer of satellite assistance. Now the future looks brighter for those caught in what Mr Chalk has termed “e-poverty”. The local arm of the Government-funded scheme to back-fill areas missed out by the commercial broadband roll-out, Fastershire, covers Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Following the MP’s intervention, Fastershire has now pledged to offer a subsidised satellite broadband service to residents who can show that their connection capacity is less than 2MB/second and who are not part of the commercial

operators’ plans. But the results of the summit went further. For those receiving speeds of between 2MB/s and around 8MB/s (i.e. broadband but not superfast broadband) there was also positive news. At the meeting, both BT and Virgin promised to look again at those areas which have so far missed out on the upgrade to FTTC (fibre to the cabinet). Virgin Media have been buoyed by the injection of £3 billion of new funding through their ‘Project Lightning’ initiative, and have agreed to a further review of neighbourhoods previously passed over for investment, such as Grace Gardens in the Reddings. Mr Chalk hailed the outcomes from the summit. He stated: “This summit produced some really positive outcomes. For those in ‘epoverty’ the commitment

made by Fastershire is a lifeline for Cheltonians. It is absurd in this day and age to believe people can get by on dial-up speeds, and I am delighted that the end is now in sight for those affected. ‘‘But 2MB/second should be a bare minimum. We need the maximum possible coverage of 30MB/s-plus superfast broadband. That’s why I’m delighted that areas missed out by BT and Virgin Media’s commercial roll-out are now going to be considered again for upgrade investment.’’ To help residents check whether they are eligible for an upgrade from one of the commercial providers, or whether Fastershire will step in to assist them with satellite broadband, Mr Chalk has launched an online survey. Residents can fill in their address, postcode and phone line details. They will then receive an email back from Mr Chalk’s office in due course, informing them which category they fall into. Residents can complete the survey at the following address: www.surveygizmo .com/s3/1967725/broadbandsurvey.

Rapist’s huge mugshot touring Spanish resorts on lorry A RAPIST from Cheltenham believed to be hiding in Spain southern coast has his mugshot on the side of a lorry touring resorts in the country. Mohammed Jahangir Alam, 32, was convicted of rape in 2010 and sentenced to 14 years in his absence Mohammed Jahangir Alam, from Cheltenham was convicted in his absence of four counts in connection with the rape and sexual assault of a woman by penetration and sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment. However the 32-year-old Bangladeshi national is believed to have jumped the UK and is believed to be hiding on the Spanish southern coast.

Alam's is one of ten faces circulated by crime fighting charity, Crimestoppers and the National Crime Agency (NCA) as Britain's most wanted fugitives. Hank Cole Head of International Operations for the National Crime

Agency said, “Spain is not a safe haven for British fugitives. The NCA and its partners will continue to pursue these individuals relentlessly and return them to the UK to face justice. Sixty-five fugitives on the Capture list have been caught, along with many more fugitives linked to other operations.” British investigators are now touring Spanish resorts with giant mugshots of Alam and 17 other fugitives thought to be attempting to escape justice on the Costas.

Hospitals to hold interactive AGM FIND out more about your local hospitals at this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. This year’s event is being held in the 1873 Suite at Gloucester Rugby, Kingsholm Stadium, where members of the public will get the opportunity to meet clinicians and staff from our hospitals and take part in a series of interactive exhibitions between 5.30pm – 6.45pm. The exhibitions will include demonstrations of births and procedures on their high-tech mother, child and baby medical training simulation manikin. They will also have a ‘wound care’ stand, a stand dedicated to organ donation and a stand dedicated to their new Cheltenham & Gloucester Hospitals Charity. Chief Executive Dr Frank Harsent will then provide an update on the Trust’s per-

formance over the past year and the key objectives for the coming year. Members of the public will be provided with the opportunity to ask questions about the Trust by submitting their questions in advance by emailing their Trust Secretary, Martin Wood on the email address below before 13th July 2015.

The event is free and open to any member of the public, but attendance is by advanced registration only. If you would like to attend, please email martin.wood@glos.nhs.uk or call him on: 0300 422 2932. Refreshments will be available from 5pm. Parking is free and readily available outside the stadium.

9 JULY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

The Brewin Dolphin ChelTenham CriCkeT FesTival THE 2015 Brewin Dolphin Cheltenham Cricket Festival is now on and Gloucestershire Cricket are anticipating another year of record gate receipts. Advance ticket sales are up on the same stage before last summer’s Festival and it seems the annual gathering at the picturesque College Ground is more popular than ever. Gloucestershire Chief Executive Will Brown said: “We are delighted with the response to this year’s Festival and all the indications show that it will be even more successful than last year.” Gloucestershire have been playing at Cheltenham since 1872. This summer the Festival, again sponsored by Brewin Dolphin, has been revitalised to provide members, hospitality guests and ticket buyers with even more entertainment to complement the cricket.

It runs from Wednesday 8th July to Saturday 18th July and includes two NatWest T20 Blast matches as well as two LV=County Championship games. Off the pitch throughout the two weeks, professional cricket coaching will be available to juniors free of charge, along with a chance to experience the ever popular inflatable bowling cage. The Festival will once again feature a Ladies’ Day on Thursday 9th July during the Championship game with Northamptonshire. On Monday 13th July, the Festival welcomes the Lord’s Taverners who will be competing in a fun day of cricket with two starstudded teams, 30 overs per team. MIUS Lord’s Taverners v Ecclesiastical Gloucestershire Legends past and present. Ground tickets only £5, available on the day.

Fixtures

Festival Match Day Tickets cost from just £15 for adults and £3 for 18s and under when purchased in advance or for only £100 a Cheltenham Festival Pass

Wednesday 8th July to Saturday 11th July

LV= CC vs Northamptonshire

Sunday 12th July

NatWest T20 Blast vs Kent

Tuesday 14th July

NatWest T20 Blast vs Hampshire

Wednesday 15th July to Saturday 18th July

LV= CC vs Leicestershire

is available which covers all 10 days of First Class cricket. 18s and under can enjoy every day of the Festival

Snipping in style STYLIST Nicole Dodd from top Cheltenham salon, Stuart Holmes, has been shortlisted in the Shu Uemura Art of Hair Avant Garde Styling Muse Image Awards. Selected from hundreds of hopeful stylists, Nicole competed in the first stages of the prestigious award at The Worx studios in London. Stuart Holmes, said: “We are incredibly proud of Nicole for getting to this advanced stage in such a coveted award. She is extremely talented and really deserves to be among such impressive company. “Creativity is key for us here at the Stuart Holmes Salon, we thrive on being able to think outside the box and venture into the realms of innovation. The ‘Avant Garde’ nature of the competition really allows us to show off our imaginative side. Keep everything crossed and watch this space as they say!” Nicole was required to complete her chosen look in less than two hours. She then worked with top multi award

(plus domestic matches at Bristol) by becoming a Junior ‘Marshall’ Member for just £20.

For more information and to buy tickets visit www.gloscricket.co.uk/ticke ts or call 0117 910 8010.

THE

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winning hair and beauty photographer, Jack Eames, to create a collection of glossy images, which showcased the finished look. Both winners and runners up will feature in the high end and beautifully presented Tribu-te magazine. Shu Uemura’s exclusive partnership with the gorgeously artistic Tribu-te magazine is currently in its third year and provides an excellent opportunity for hair stylists across the country to feature within its pages. Both the competition winner and runners up will appear in a feature in Tribu-

te’s September issue and an additional feature will appear in December’s issue following the journey of the talented winner along with their prize. Stuart Holmes Salon based in the heart of Cheltenham, is no stranger to competitions and award ceremonies. With their stylists receiving the highest levels of training, they are a multi award winning salon and images by the team regularly grace the pages of national hair magazines. They offer a wide range of services, both hair and beauty and are elite in their fields.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

Gloucestershire Police new tool to communicate with vulnerable communities GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police has adopted a new tool to help communicate with vulnerable communities. PocketComms has been launched to enable officers to speak to members of the public where English isn’t their first language or they may have a disability or learning difficulty. Using a comprehensive set of vivid and simple graphics, PocketComms enables members of the public to indicate what service they need or explain a set of circumstances that may have happened to them. Officers can determine health, religious and dietary requirements as well as a section in the book explaining religious etiquette when visiting homes and religious meeting places. There are copies of the book at Compass House, the county custody block, as well as being distributed to

officers in the field. PocketComms is the brainchild of artist and professional illustrator, James Wyatt, who thought up the idea while serving in the Territorial Army in Afghanistan as the British Army’s only combat cartoonist. He developed it to help communicate with a group of teenagers in Kabul. Chief Constable Suzette Davenport (pictured) said: “Gloucestershire Constabulary is always looking at new and innovative ways to enhance our service to the public. The PocketComms

visual communication aide is a fantastic example of that and I welcome its introduction. Everyone knows the old saying that ‘a picture paints a thousand words’, and that’s precisely the concept here. Through the use of pictures our officers and staff will be able to facilitate communication more effectively with people where language may be a barrier – whether that’s people who are hearing or speech impaired, vulnerable people with disabilities or learning difficulties, or those people for whom English may not be their first language.” The language aid has been adopted by a number of forces in England along with the National Crime Agency and UK Border Agency. It has also been used by police forces worldwide including in The Netherlands, Germany and Hong Kong.

All Saints Year 11 Prom huge success ON 29th June, Year 11 students flocked to Hatherley Manor to enjoy their end of year prom. For some students moving on to college or a different Sixth Form it was an emotional goodbye, for others a celebration and chance to gather before returning to All Saints’ Academy Sixth Form in September. Students arrived in style, one of particular note was

Chloe Stephens, who made an entrance in a red Mustang. Students then queued patiently to have a photo on the red carpet and to enter the room. Students then had a welcome drink and a three course dinner. Speeches and awards followed with Josh Domm and Poppy Slack being crowned Prom King and Queen. Year 11 were then treated to a memories

video and the much anticipated Year 11 staff video. After the awards, speeches and videos the students had the chance to visit the photo booth and dancefloor to dance the night away. The evening finished with a last dance to Frozen’s ‘Let it Go’. Year 11 all gathered in a circle and held hands whilst singing their hearts out.

Chloe Stephens arrived in a red mustang

9 JULY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Care home open day success in Cheltenham CARE UK’S andfields on St George’s Road welcomed the people of Cheltenham through its doors for an event to celebrate Care Home Open Day. Sandfields was one of thousands of care homes across the UK which took part in the annual initiative aimed at challenging perceptions of care homes, connecting residents with even more people in their community, and developing relationships across generations. Visitors to Sandfields enjoyed a host of activities for the ‘Taste of the Caribbean’ extravaganza. Annette Richard-Binns from Zumba Gold was on hand to help visitors with Caribbeanthemed craft activities and a fun chair Zumba session, and entertainment included music from Pandemonium, a traditional steel-drum band. Following the live music, Richard Davis (musician and entertainer) ‘orchestrated’ an African drum tutorial for visitors and freshly prepared Caribbean-inspired food and

refreshments were provided. Ruth Baggs, home manager at Sandfields said: “We were thrilled to pledge our support for Care Home Open Day and to welcome so many local people along to our open day celebrations. “Although our home is always open to guests, it was wonderful to have a day to really celebrate with visitors, residents and colleagues alike and show all the good work we do. It was pleasure to meet everyone and to give visitors the opportunity to

take a look around Sandfields. We all had a wonderful day and hopefully we have demonstrated how modern care homes are warm and inviting while also strengthening our links with the local community here in Cheltenham. Visitors to the Care Home Open Day event at Sandfields were also able to pick up their copy of Care UK’s Good to Go. The free guide highlights how important it is for those living with dementia – and their carers – to get out and

about, and the emotional and physical benefits of staying active. Good to Go provides practical advice on how to make the most of every outing, big or small, with words of encouragement volunteered by people working in Care UK care homes, as well as residents and family carers. The guide can also be downloaded free at www.careuk.com/goodtogo. For more information on Sandfields call customer relations manager, Sue Stannard on 0333 321 0921 or email sue.stannard@careuk.com Care UK runs 114 care homes and also provides care for thousands of people living in their own homes. For more general information, please go to www.careuk.com

Kauto Star ashes to rest at Kempton Park THE ashes of racehorse Kauto Star are to finally rest underneath his statue at Kempton Park, says his owner Clive Smith. Kauto Star, a two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner, won the King George VI Chase at Kempton in Surrey an unprecedented five times. The horse, trained by Paul Nicholls in Somerset, switched to dressage after retiring from racing in October 2012. Kauto Star was put down aged 15 last week after a fall in a field at rider Laura Collett's Berk-

shire stables. Smith said the horse was cremated in Cheltenham on Monday of this week and he later went to place flowers at Kempton. He commissioned two statues by sculptor Charlie Langdon. One, in the parade ring of the Surrey track, was unveiled at the King George meeting on Boxing Day last year, with the other at Smith's home. “There are two boxes of ashes and I may put some here at home as well,” said Smith, who has described Kauto Star as “an incredible racehorse.”

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

Professional development at Gloucestershire College Part-time and Professional Course Guide out now

Whether you have aspirations of becoming an accountant, engineer, counsellor or teacher, or you are an employer looking to develop your staff, Gloucestershire College has launched a new Part-time and Professional Course Guide filled with courses that can qualify you for all these careers and more. Available across all campuses in Cheltenham, Gloucester and the Forest of Dean, and covering levels one to seven (equivalent to a Master’s degree), the new range of part-time and professional courses have starting dates between September and January, and aim to fit in with the busy lives of those already in industry.

the broad range of courses include AAt and ACCA Accounting; A+ (Computing hardware and Support); Professional Cookery; Counselling Skills; ACS Gas Safety; CAD, CAM and CNC engineering; hairdressing; Beauty therapy; Personal training; education and training; and Supporting teaching and Learning in Schools. All courses will develop students’ skills in their chosen field, provide them with an industry-recognised qualification and ultimately enhance their career prospects. Some of these are essential for progression within the workplace, while others can open doors to alternative career pathways. Vice Principal Peter White said: “Gloucestershire College is committed to continuing professional development and the new range of parttime courses are not only highly focused and relevant but many are taught by practitioners active in their fields.

WinChCombe SChool CelebrateS ofSted rePort DuriNG the most recent inspection of the school in May 2015, Ofsted found a rapidly improving school with an exceptionally strong management of teaching helping to lead students to achieve well in a broad range of subjects, with attainment in a majority of subjects now above the national average. Pupil behaviour was also highly praised, with inspectors finding students to be very polite, taking pride in their work and the school. the findings led Ofsted to grade student behaviour and leadership and management as outstanding. Winchcombe School head teacher Neil hall said, “We’re delighted the school has been recognised as good with outstanding elements. “this new, improved rating reflects all the hard work of pupils and staff over the past two years. “i am particularly pleased Ofsted commented on our exceptionally strong leadership of teaching and recognised how well behaved Winchcombe School students are. “i am grateful to parents, governors and the local community who are always so supportive of the school.”

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“For employers, the courses offer the opportunity to develop staff to meet their full potential and the everchanging economic and industry demands.” the new course guide also features details of skills development and lifestyle courses available, as well as information about apprenticeships, higher apprenticeships and higher education options at Gloucestershire College. the new Part-time and Professional Course is available to download now at www.gloscol.ac.uk/parttime. For more information call Student Services on 0345 155 2020 or email info@gloscol.ac.uk.

Venting spleen

LOyAL readers: it's with great delight i can report to you all that for the past 10 nights the southern coast of Spain has enjoyed a heatwave. the seas were crystal blue, sangria was served on crushed ice and paella still tastes like paella. Whilst i could devote my entire column to how i lived it up, let's jump straight ahead to my hang-ups. easyjet - what a God-awful experience it was for me. After a copious time away frolicking on the beach and such, i was horrified to witness the animal pen i would be spending the next 2 hours of my life in. they don't even water you! how anyone can fly like this is beyond me. i knew my foray into budget travelling had been a mistake on the flight out. i had the misfortune of listening to some fellow passengers scream in delight that some abhorrent-sounding television series would be filming at their resort. i was thankful to later learn they would be travel-

Local man about town, Tom Thurlow lets loose

ling on to Benidorm - some form of justice i suppose? i certainly shan't be venturing cattle class again for the sake of saving a couple of hundred. Lesson learned me thinks. Another lesson learned is the British appreciation for queuing. Whilst i can vouch that the Spanish are instantly friendly and happy to interact - despite our awful grasp of their language - they have almost zero patience. the concept of waiting your turn is lost on this lot. i frequently experienced free-for-alls whether it be in restaurants, theme parks or even bus stops. (i would never take the bus, obviously, but i just thought it important to mention as an example). Lastly, let's talk about

those days spent sunning it on the sand. the beach had a very easy setup to understand. the rich folk paid €20 to lie in luxury on deck beds, under straw parasols. the plebs could be found slumming it on hotel towels in front of us. to be frank, this lot made the most noise and in my opinion, left the most mess. One Valencian family littered so many Magnum wrappers i was genuinely concerned how they would make any room for their tea. One other thing that needs to be seriously addressed is fat topless people. they should begin an urgent search for their dignity and put a top on! half the beach was gawping as they shamelessly ran back and forth with all sorts jingling about. it's not a nice sight to be held and i can only imagine how embarrassing they must've found the whole

ordeal themselves. hey - i enjoy binging on a family pack or two just as much as they do but i keep my tummy hidden. truthfully, i find it very easy to do so. Perhaps i'm wrong and all should be free to leave their junk hanging bare? it's a slippery slope though... i for one, am dreading the moment my view from 131 is obliterated by an army of clothes-shy Cheltonians. Where's the beach? Oh that's right - there isn't one. it's a bloody disgrace; i'm off to Du Vin.

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

9 JULY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Standoku 4

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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: 25 words good; 35 very good; 40+ excellent.

Warden Hill Family Fun Day A FAMILY fun day is being held at the Salisbury Avenue play area in Warden Hill and the adjacent URC church this Saturday 11th July between 2pm and 5pm. The event is being organised by Cheltenham Network Church,

Cryptic Crossword No51 aCroSS

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1. A spot for a vertical descent (4) 8. Condition that causes one to prefer the low life? (10) 9. One who's just played a leading part in the match (5-3) 10. Apostolically, they follow John (4) 12. Obliged to be unnatural (6) 14. Press publicity made by a diver (6) 15. Father and mother going round an American republic (6) 17. Prevents movement near the western borders (6) 18. Deserted port (4) 19. Half an hour after the oﬃce has been ruined, he attends to the locks (8) 21. Occasionally the present linked with the past (3,3,4) 22. One of these indicates indeﬁnite futurity (4)

2. Put a new coat on? (10) 3. It covers the tomb of an early evangelist, we hear (4) 4. About the end of the battle, the mob shouted triumphantly (6) 5. Black suit used in the digs (6) 6. Everything in garbled codes is styled thus (2-6) 7. State cut short the service (4) 11. Relish completely in a discriminating way (10) 13. To applaud a role that's turned up will be just empty words (8) 16. Race madly round present-day covered precinct (6) 17. Her wit could make you move in agony (6) 18. Country boy round the north (4) 20. Kitty requiring some of the stuﬀ underneath (4)

Last week’s solutions (2nd July 2015): ACRoss: 7 Okapi; 8 Annexed; 9 Natural; 10 Tweak; 12 Drawing-pin; 15 Malingered; 18 Noise; 19 Repress; 21 Presume; 22 Apace. Down: 1 Countryman; 2 Taste; 3 Tier; 4 Fallow; 5 Instance; 6 Excerpt; 11 Kingﬁsher; 13 Runner-up; 14 Claimed; 16 Earned; 17 Penal; 20 Pray.

the Church in Warden Hill and Cheltenham Borough Council. Entrance, including all activities, is free. These include badge and bracelet making, face painting, team games and a bouncy castle. There will be refreshments available such as hot dogs and ice creams along with tea, coffee and cakes. There will

also be a fire engine in attendance. Rev Ashley Collishaw, Vicar of Cheltenham Network Church says: “The local churches have been working together for a while and decided they wanted to offer something that would be a gift to the local community and a way to bring it together.”

Fantastic panoramic views over Painswick Valley

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Cheese Rolling could be made oﬃcial again GLOUCESTER'S famous annual cheese rolling could be made an official event again after it was scrapped in 2010 due to safety concerns. The event on Cooper's Hill has been held unofficially ever since, and attracted over 5,000 spectators in May. Organisers said they were trying to become a small business and were hoping to attract sponsorship. An estimated 15,000 people turned up in 2009 which led to insurers refusing to cover the event. The hill, near Brockworth, is only suitable to host about 5,000 spectators. One of the organisers, Candis Phillips, said they

were trying to make the event as safe as possible to allow it to continue officially. “We feel passionate about it. It's part of our history and we can't let it [die out].” 'Biggest fear' Ms Phillips said Gloucestershire Police had told them they needed £10,000 to police it, and any future event would probably require fences down the sides of the hill to improve safety. “St John Ambulance won't come here. We've tried and they've refused. We're trying to get it so they will come again,” she added. “Our biggest fear is the lia-

bility with people wanting to claim [if they get injured]. “There is a possibility that we could become a limited company with limitations to the liability. “Maybe there are other ways we can get round it, but we're finding out.” In 2013, 86-year-old cheese maker, Diana Smart was warned by police she may be liable for legal action because she could have been constituted as an organiser. The annual event takes place every spring bank holiday Monday and sees thrill-seekers chase an 8lb (3.5kg) wheel of double Gloucester cheese down the 1:2 gradient hill.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

consultation starts on sharing council services

Editor’sDEsk

AS anybody been over in Sandford Park of late? This is a pleasant space that stretches its green fingers way back into the annals of Cheltenham’s history. The name Sandford is derived from the sandy soil and the old ford over the brook. Sandford is mentioned in the Domesday Book and was the site of Barrett’s Mill, the largest of the three mills on the banks of the River Chelt. Designed by the landscape architect Milner White, Sandford Park was acquired by the borough council in 1927. Ok, history lesson. On the Borough Council’s web site they describe Sandford Park as “one of Cheltenham's lesser known treasures.” They also say, “It is well used by many as a pleasant route to work, or for quiet lunch breaks in the sun.” What they don’t mention is the hordes of drunks and layabouts festooning the park with their can-swigging activity that in my opinion, really drags

down the whole look and feel of the park. Who wants to have a ‘pleasant route’ past drunks who are also smoking some rather dubious substances. The air surrounding them seems to be filled with the noxious tones of Morocco, if you get my drift… and drift it does. Right into your nostrils. When I leave a park I want to be heady from the scent of flowers… not anything else! Only last night (Tuesday 7th) as I walked through the park at 7.30pm there was a sight to behold. A group of Brownies were being taken through their paces by a ‘Brown Owl’ (a person, not a bird of prey) and not 100 metres away there was a mound of this towns drunks getting to grips with their daily fix. It’s not right and it’s not fair on children. It’s about time the Borough Council and the Police made a concerted effort to get this mess cleaned up. It’s a downright disgrace that the Borough Council turn a blind eye to this sort

of activity. And please don’t tell me they’re not aware. Or if they are, then they truly are myopic. Perhaps the venerable Councillors could stop their endless meetings, thumb twiddling and channel some of their efforts into actually getting off their arses, get down there and have a look at just how a beautiful park is being spoiled by a bunch of undesirables? And please Borough Councillors, don’t whinge to me about social problems. Let’s cut to the chase and actually do something about it with a zero tolerance programme for parks to eliminate this horrible behaviour. We pay you enough, so let’s have some action.

Eric Barton, Editor

Got a comment?

Please contact us at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

THE community is being invited to have its say on proposals that will reduce the running costs of the council without the need to cut services. Cheltenham Borough Council is working with The Forest of Dean, Cotswold and West Oxfordshire District Councils on a programme of work known as the 2020 Vision Programme which is aiming to reduce the cost of providing services through sharing management and staff and making better use of IT. The councils will be maintaining the full range of services that they currently provide and retain their own identity. Decisions on what is best for Cheltenham borough will continue to be made by elected councillors and local access to services will continue to be available. As a result of this work the councils are initially proposing the following services will be shared:

• IT • Public Protection • Building Control • Legal • Land and Property • Customer Services Not all partners will necessarily be involved in each project as some already have different arrangements. Detailed proposals, which include sharing these services, will be going to each council in September and October this year but before these meetings the councils would like to hear the views of local residents. For the past three years the four councils have been sharing a finance, procurement and Human Resources service and an associated IT system, which is working well. Cllr Steve Jordan, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, says: “All councils have seen major reductions in government funding and this will continue. We are working hard to protect

services in Cheltenham and working in partnership with other councils is a good way to help achieve this. This consultation is a chance for the public to have a say before any final decisions are taken.” Residents can have their say on these changes by emailing feedback@2020partnership.uk, writing to Rachael Orchard, 2020 Vision Programme Office, Municipal Offices, Cheltenham, GL50 1PP, letting us know: • Do you agree with this approach? • If not, how do you think the savings could be made? • Any additional comments? More information can be found at www.cheltenham. gov.uk/consultations and hard copies will be available at the reception desk of either of these councils. The consultation runs until Tuesday 15 September 2015.

Che ltenham Sp a Skip Hire

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

Rugby ace visits Thirlestaine Park Care Home OVER 40 residents and invited guests at Thirlestaine Park Care Home in Cheltenham were treated to a visit from former England rugby captain Kyran Bracken recently, on a hot July 4th afternoon. Always an inspiring and humorous speaker, Kyran had much to share from his astonishing life of achievement and adventure: 51 caps for England, three rugby world cups, re-

covery from injury, an MBE and adapting from field to rink as winner of Dancing on Ice. It was a fascinating insight into the competitive rough and

tumble of a professional rugby player’s life. The beautiful setting of Thirlestaine Park was a perfect backdrop for the celebrated athlete and speaker. Guests were clearly thrilled to get so close to Kyran and ask him questions about his life, to mingle and enjoy the ambience. There were certainly plenty of smiles and tales from a memorable day.

Tel: 01242 243 260 Mobile: 07747 390 203

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

BUSINESS Gloucestershire County Cricket Club new shirt sponsor Will Smith, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club

188BET, the leading online bookmaker, has announced a sponsorship deal with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, signing an initial one year contract to become an official shirt advertising sponsor. The 188BET logo will appear on the front of all Royal London One-Day Cup competition shirts worn by the Gloucestershire Cricket first team squad in matches played in 2015, as well as all adult replica shirts. The agreement also includes provision for significant branding at the Bristol County Ground and repre-

sentation on the official Club website. Des de Silva, Head of Marketing UK / Europe for 188BET said: “We are very pleased to partner with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club for 2015. We are excited by the prospect of our first season supporting the Club and look forward to the exposure generated by the Royal London One-Day Cup competition.” Will Brown, Chief Executive of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club added: “We are delighted to have 188BET sponsor our Royal London One-Day Cup shirt

for 2015. It is a significant coup for Gloucestershire Cricket to attract a major player in the

BuMp, BuMp hoorAy! THE LITTLE BUMP COMPANY, an exciting new boutique maternity and nursing specialist in Montpellier, Cheltenham, has opened its doors. Owned by Eve Fernando, The Little Bump Company is a specialist boutique bringing ultra-stylish and comfortable clothes to women throughout the Cotswolds during every trimester of their pregnancy. Teaming up with Cheltenham Jazz Festival favourites, The Sugar Sisters, for their launch, guests nibbled on South Indian canapés by Bhoomi and sipped on Prosecco and

Eve and Mithra Fernando

mocktails from John Gordon’s. Eve said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome guests to the store, meet everyone and receive such wonderful compliments about our new venture. The evening was a great success and we are really looking forward to

opening our doors to the public.” V.I.P launch guests had the opportunity to browse all the beautiful products in the shop, ahead of the public opening, plus take away delicious cupcakes made by Cheltenham based The Vanilla Pod Bakery. Eve

gaming industry and we look forward to a long term partnership.”

highlights her excitement to open her first store in the spa town of Cheltenham: “It is a great location to open our first shop as it is a beautiful town and with easy links to London many young families move out here to create a new life. The fantastic schools and excellent activities around the area mean it is ranked one of the best places to raise a family in the UK.” Eve and her team are also trained at antenatal and postnatal care and are happy to guide women through the features of the maternity clothing and accessories available, carefully helping to select the best wardrobe for each customer. Eve added: “If you have recently had your little one, we can also assist with nursing wear, nursing lingerie, nursing scarves, changing bags, postnatal active wear and exercise programmes that look

TFIELD A E R G FARM SHOP UP HATHERLEY Open: Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-2

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Cheltenham residents to comment on retirement ﬂats LOCAL people are being given the opportunity comment on plans for a specialist retirement development of apartments in Cheltenham, with an online consultation available until the beginning of August. Churchill Retirement Living is preparing a planning application for a high quality, purpose-built development of approximately 64 privately-owned apartments at Pate Court, St Margaret’s Road, Cheltenham. The scheme will be made up of one and two bedroom apartments, exclusively for those aged 60 and above, with landscaped gardens, a communal owner’s lounge, a guest suite and a lodge manager’s office.

Churchill Retirement Living has published drawings of the proposed scheme on its website and is inviting comments to be made up until 7 August 2015. The drawings can be viewed at: www.churchillretirement.co.uk/planning/live-consultations Andrew Burgess, Planning Director at Churchill Retirement Living, said: “We place great importance on engaging with local communities during the planning process and providing them with an opportunity to have their say on our early-stage plans. We believe our proposals for this disused brownfield site will significantly enhance the local area and provide muchneed specialist housing for older people.

Andrew Burgess

after you and your baby from day one. “A local maternity store is essential, as a tailored approach to shopping can make the experience of being pregnant far more enjoyable and comfortable and something to be celebrated not endured. If there was

ever a time in a woman’s life when she wants to feel beautiful, besides on her wedding day, then this is it and it is our drive to make them feel it.” The Little Bump Company, 13 Montpellier Arcade, Cheltenham, GL50 1SU. www.thelittlebumpco.com

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

WHAT’S ON ALIENS LOVE UNDERPANTS The Aliens have landed!

Aliens love underpants of every shape and size. But there are no underpants in space, so here’s a big surprise! THiS zany and hilarious tale based on the best-selling children’s picture book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort is wonderfully and imaginatively brought to life on stage for the very ﬁrst time. With stunning eﬀects, madcap action, original

musical (and lots of aliens of course!), this fantastically fresh and funny production will delight the whole family. You’ll laugh your pants oﬀ! AliENS lOVE UNDErPANTS Everyman Theatre, cheltenham Monday 27th and

Tuesday 28th July Mon: 2pm & 4.30pm Tue: 11am, 2pm & 4.30pm All tickets £12.50, groups of 10 or more £10 Box Oﬃce: 01242 572573 recommended for children aged 3 and up – but please bring a grown-up with you!

AVENUE Q The award-winning monster musical, Avenue Q is back!

Winner of the Tony Awards Triple Crown for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, Avenue Q is part flesh, part felt and packed with heart. Following five years in the West end, sell out runs worldwide and a smash hit tour in 2014 (packed with mischief, bad behaviour and political incorrectness) this hugely entertaining show will hit the everyman later this month. Created by Jeff Marx and robert Lopez (Co-creator of The Book of Mormon and writer of the songs for

Disney’s Frozen) Avenue Q is an irresistibly charming musical which tells the story of the loveable characters on a downtown new York street trying to make sense of life’s burning issues. Hilarious, cheeky and uproariously entertaining with a terriﬁc batch of songs performed by a cast of hugely talented performers and puppets, Avenue Q is the musical like no other. So don’t let

your life suck – book your tickets today! Avenue Q contains strong language and is suitable for audiences aged 14 plus. AVENUE Q Monday 20th – Saturday 25th July Eves: 7.45pm, Thu & Sat mat 2pm Tickets: £13 - £28 available from the Everyman Box Oﬃce on 01242 572573 or online at www.everyman theatre.org.uk

BrEwEry DANcE FESTiVAl SET TO Thrill THiS Friday and Saturday slip on your dancing shoes and shimmy on down to The Brewery for what promises to be the best Global Dance Festival to date. Soak up the atmosphere and culture on Friday evening from 7pm – 9pm as the freestyle salsa party gets under way. Then head down from 12:00 – 19:00 on Saturday as the Cheltenham leisure destination comes alive with vibrant music from all over the world. DJ and dance teacher, Thomas Melendez, will then be showing people how to dance to the world’s ﬁnest Latin music, with BBC radio Gloucestershire’s Manny Masih presenting. Join in with the festivities as The Brewery’s ﬁlls up

with music, dance demonstrations and an electrifying carnival-style atmosphere, with dozens of dance groups from across Gloucestershire. it will be a lively and colourful afternoon for the

whole family with special line-ups for kids, face painting and a bouncy castle. Go to www.thebrewery cheltenham.co.uk/events/ latest/globaldancefest201 5/ for more details.

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We are looking for successful companies that have the heart and passion for youth development of our successful Cheltenham Town FC Academy. Our central objective is for individuals to ultimately progress into 1st team football or to be sold on to higher level professional clubs. For a player to be successful at any level, he must be given the right environment in which to perform. As a sponsor you can help provide the player with the latest club kit to make them feel part of the club, identify themselves with club stars and ultimately succeed and develop. The academy is a non-profit company running on a small budget, therefore in-order to provide kit, we have to charge to cover the cost. However with your sponsorship we can help with the financial burden to parents/guardians. Please see below the different packages available:

Package One Donate £500 for sponsorship of one age group home playing shirts, including your company logo, our logo and number. As well as your company logo, in return you will receive: An advert in our 1st team program An endorsement/thank you in the Gloucestershire echo One ticket for every home game for the 2015/2016 season to watch the Cheltenham Town 1st team. A replica of your sponsored shirt signed by the CTFC 1st team.

Package Two Donate £1,000 for sponsorship of two home team playing shirts, including your company logo, our logo and number. As well as your company logo, in return you will also receive: An advert in our 1st team program An endorsement/thank you in the Gloucestershire echo Two tickets for every home game for the 2015/2016 season to watch the Cheltenham Town 1st team. A replica of your sponsored shirt signed by the CTFC 1st team.

Package Three Donate £1500 for sponsorship of one age group home team playing shirts, including your company logo, our logo and number. Purchase an 8ft advertising banner with your company logo, at the 1st team ground at a cost of £500, which includes the design, installation and advertising space cost. Your Company will then be advertised to all supporters and to tv audiences. As well as your company logo, in return you will also receive: An advert in our 1st team program An endorsement/thank you in the Gloucestershire echo Two tickets for every home game for the 2015/2016 season to watch the Cheltenham Town 1st team. A replica of your sponsored shirt signed by the CTFC 1st team.

If you are interested in sponsorship and creating a relationship with your local football club, or have any queries/questions, please email: james.murphy@ctfc.com

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9 JULY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT County end Middleton Cup group games on a high BOWLS

Gloucestershire 116 (15pts) Northamptonshire 92 (4pts) GLOUCESTERSHIRE finished their Middleton Cup group games on a high as they won four rinks out of six to gain a 24 shot win 116-92 over Herefordshire at Pineholt BC. A comprehensive display saw the rink of Nathan Kitchen (Cheltenham), Nigel Cansdale (Cirencester), John Roach, Matt Cuthbert (both Cheltenham) produce some break taking bowls that saw P Middleton fall by the wayside. The early ends saw their opponents take a 9-2 before they bounced back with a five to level at 9-9 after seven ends. Turn up the heat from 11-9 down they won six out of the next seven ends to take a 16-12 lead. Over the last five ends they then won all of them,

scored two three’s and a two for a 26-13 win. The rink of Jack Daniels (Bishop's Cleeve), Graham Griffiths (Cheltenham), James Speller and birthday boy Steve Knight (both Cheltenham) also produced a masterful display when they against S Jones stormed into a 6-0 lead after winning the first five ends. Losing the next three they then hit a purple patch that began with a four and ended with a three and in between saw four winning ends that gave them an 18-3 lead. Despite losing the next five ends they finished on a high winning the last two ends for a 21-10 win. Ben Coldrick (Barnwood), Roger Bird, Pete Stinchcombe (both Tetbury) and Stuart Hodges (Cheltenham) up against D.Magness trailed 8-4 before a four put them level after nine ends. Ahead by two they then lost two threes to go 14-10 down.

Cheltenham reach ﬁnals of County Fours BOWLS

Action from Gloucestershire v Herefordshire In the middle birthday boy Steve Knight (Cheltenham) in front James Speller (Cheltenham), left Graham Griﬃths (Cheltenham) next Jack Daniels (Bishop's Cleeve).

Gaining a two they then lost a single on the 14th end to trail 15-12. The turning point came from the 15th to the 20th end when in those six ends they won them all, scored three two’s and a four to carve out a thoroughly deserved 24-18 win. John Smallwood (Olveston), Chris Roach, Nick Holliday, (both Cheltenham) and Paul Bryant (Olveston) had to battle every inch of the way against J Churchill when they faced a 7-1 deficit after just five ends. A mini run of three winning ends closed the gap to 7-5 and despite picking up two two’s they

were still 13-10 down after 16 ends. A change in fortunes came on the next two ends with a four and a three to go 17-13 ahead. With the gap down to just one shot on the last end they picked up a stunning four to win 21-16. Adam Smith (Dowty), Vince Wilks (Gloucester City), Grant Baldwin and Chris Davies (both Coleford) up against P Rainthorpe were even at six all after 10 ends. The rink then grabbed a three and two singles to lead 11-8 before seeing the lead go down to one shot after 18 ends. A loss of three shots on the 19th end was a crucial

blow as they failed to score again losing 16-12. Brian Burleigh (Dursley), Dave Smith, Russ Mellerup (both Cam) and Keith Hinder (Dursley) started out with a five shot lead over M Ricketts before being caught and overtaken on the 12th end when dropping a four to go 11-8 down. A loss of a three shots opened up a seven shot deficit and it stayed that way to the end as they lost 19-12. That put Gloucestershire second in the Group with manager Rob Griffiths having high hopes for the future of bowls in the County.

Women maintain unbeaten record BOWLS

Glos Women 81 (11pts) Warwickshire 75 (6pts) THE heat took its toll as Gloucestershire women remained unbeaten in the Middle England League with an 81-75 win over Warwickshire at Chipping Campden BC. The match reduced to 15 ends saw Gloucestershire pick up three winning

rinks with Barbara Nelmes (Cheltenham), Linda Bennett (Moreton). Ann Boaden (Begbrook) and Jeanette Scott (Cheltenham) overwhelming E Chedezoy when having gone into a 6-3 lead on five ends, they doubled their advantage five ends later to led 12-6 and then gained another eight shots against two for a 20-8 win. Angie Smith (Tetbury), Sue Herbert (Falcon), Janet Lee Cooper (Yate) and Maddie Hale (Fairford) up

against M Edwards gained the early advantage with a 7-3 lead after five ends and were never headed. Taking a 9-6 lead after 10 ends they pulled away over the next five ends for a 159 win. Audrey Marsden (Barnwood), Di Tucker (page Ladies), Barbara Brown (Arrow) and Lindsay Collin (Page Ladies) fought out a thriller against S Hornsby when taking a slender shot lead 4-3 they were all level at six all after 10 ends and

then squeezed home by a single shot 13-12. The rink of Jo Slatter (Caer Glow), Vera Clarke (Gloucester Spa), Joyce Keating (Tetbury) and Linda Challenger (Page Ladies) looked to be heading for a win against J Scott when they lead 10-8 however over the final run in they were pipped by a single shot to lose 14-13. Rosie Sheridan (Bishop's Cleeve), Dawn Rowlands (Cirencester), Janet Tomlinson (Bishop's Cleeve)

and Margaret McColl (Cheltenham Spa) up against J Corn were two shots ahead after 10 ends 9-7 and then lost out over the next five scoring just a single shot to go down 1310. Val Webb (Victory Park), Pat Baker, Pam Salvage and Sue Osborne (all Kingwood and Hanham) found the going tough against M Parsons when having led 64 they fell five shots behind after 10 ends and went onto lose 19-10.

LAST season runners-up Cheltenham gained revenge over reigning champions Cam Mills to reach the finals of the County Fours at Bristol St Andrews. The quartet of Nathan Kitchen, Nick Holliday, John Roach and Matt Cuthbert (Cheltenham) up against the rink of Alan Norris, Dave Smith, Phil Smith and Russ Mellerup (Cam) had a dream start when they chalked up five shots on the first end. A three on the seventh end gave them a commanding 11-4 lead. Not to be out done Cam struck back with six consecutive winning ends to close the gap to just two shots. Disaster then struck on the 15th end for Cam when they lost a six and then a two to be 20-10 down. Not giving up hope of a another final appearance they bagged a two and a three before losing a two to be seven shots down 22-15 with just two ends to play. Cam although they won the last two ends it was always going to be a tall order to pull back the shots and in the end Cheltenham progressed with a 22-18 win. In the other semi-final a dramatic finish unfolded on the final end with Barnwood (Ben Coldrick, Aaron Lloyd, Pat Main and Mike Smith) holding two shots against Bristol St Andrews (Trevor Wilkins, Larry Pearce, Jason Sparkes and Richard Ludwell) which would have put them in the final. However with his last wood Ludwell trailed the jack to pick up the shot and a final appearance with a 16-14 win. Earlier in the match Barnwood led 3-1 before Bristol St Andrews went into a 7-5 lead and then won three ends on the trot picking up six shots to open up a 13-5 lead. Barnwood struck back with four winning ends out of five and gaining a four on the 18th end they had closed the gap to a single shot 14-13. Both sides then picked up a single shot before that nail biting last end decided the outcome in favour of Bristol St Andrews. Both winners will now take their place in the County final to be held on Sunday, July 26 at Pineholt BC and in August at the National Championships at Leamington.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

SPORT HORSE RACING

AS MANY ‘grandstand’ jockeys felt when Craig Williams on well fancied Australian horse Brazen Beau was beaten into second place in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot last month, how a horse is ridden tactically in sprints can make a big difference to winning or losing a race. In this case Williams decided to plough a lone furrow up near the stands side rail only to be ‘done’ close home by a horse racing with the rest of the field in the centre of the course, and where the pace in the race was. Brazen Beau seeks to put the record straight in the July Cup over six furlongs at Newmarket on Saturday. Notably he will be ridden by James Doyle. This Group One sprint is a different test to Ascot as the Newmarket course is undulating and less wide than Ascot and normally requires a well balanced animal that can sit near the pace and quicken on the rising ground at the finish. Depending on how many horses may run, the field could also split into two which add to the dynamics of the race and the need for the jockey to decide where the pace is and get his horse into that group As with most Group One races, it is, however, not a one horse race with fellow three-year-old Muhaarar likely to challenge Brazen Beau, both for favouritism and in the race, after his impressive win in the Commonwealth Cup at Royal Ascot. Muhaarar was stepping Brazen Beau

down in distance to six furlongs when winning at Ascot after failing in the French Guineas over a mile and having previously won the Greenham over seven furlongs at Newbury. The Greenham form has not worked out that well but there was no question about the authority of Muharaar’s win at Ascot. The main downsides may the track and the pace, the horse having been beaten at Newmarket as a two year old and potentially requiring all of the six furlongs to get home. On form there is not a lot between him and Brazen Beau. As these three year olds are a long way clear of the rest in the betting market there is scope for looking for one of the older horses to finish in the first three at a much bigger price. That brings in the likes of Tropics, if he can be forgiven his poor run at Royal Ascot in June, as he did run second to Sole Power in last year’s July Cup and seems to act well on the track. At around 18/1 presently Tropics could represent good each way value. Hopefully, however, Brazen Beau might win and allow the Australian connections to truly celebrate this time round. The other big race on Saturday is the John Smith’s Cup at York over a mile and quarter where Arab Dawn, impressive winner over two furlongs further at Royal Ascot last time out, still looks very well in at the weights if he can cope with the drop in distance over a course where it usually pays to be close to the pace.

Key midﬁelder agrees to stay at Cleeve FOOTBALL

BISHOP’S Cleeve boss Steve Cleal said he was delighted to retain the services of key midfielder Jordan Bryan. The former Cheltenham Saracens and Cinderford Town man joined the Mitres midway through last season, making a big impact and attracting attention from other

Southern League clubs. But he has committed his future to Kayte Lane, following the likes of Jack Watts, Aaron Drake and Jack Oldham. “I'm over the moon to keep hold of Jordy becayse he was superb when he came in and he's the type of player I want to keep working with,” Cleal said.

“He has the talent to push on at this level and he certainly has the hunger to match.” Bryan said: “I'm delighted to stay at Cleeve and with the additions to the squad it's an exciting time. “I am looking forward to working hard and cementing my place and helping this club to kick on.”

PHOTO: AlAn FRAnklin

Jockey tactics critical in big sprint

Cleeve boss Steve Cleal (right), with assistant Derek lightstone

• Bishop’s Cleeve begin their pre-season friendly programme with a home match against Worcester City on Saturday (3pm).

Woodland smashes magniﬁcent 134 as Cheltenham climb to ﬁfth CRICKET

CENTURIES from Peter Woodland and Kieran Smith against Lechlade helped Cheltenham register their second victory in succession and ease their Premier Two relegation fears. Woodland led the way with an outstanding unbeaten 134, ably supported by Smith, who hit 104. Cheltenham had won the toss and elected to bat at the Manor Ground and thanks to their pair of centurions, they amassed 331 for five from their 50 overs.

And all that was after losing opener Mike Kelly to the first ball of the match, with Tristan Hawkes having him caught by Oli Thornley. Matt Jennings (25) and Smith put on 62 for the second wicket before Joe Breet had Jennings caught by Thornley. Fred Davies failed to score before he was bowled by Hawkes, but Smith and Woodland put on 179 for the fourth wicket in 30 overs. Their magnificent partnership was ended when Hawkes bowled Smith,

whose knock included 12 fours and two sixes. Woodland hit 19 fours and a six in his 134 from 123 balls, with Will Simmons bowled by Hawkes for 13 and Harry Arthur not out on four at the close of the innings. In reply, Lechlade were dismissed for 177, with Arthur and Sam Didcote both claiming three wickets. Jennings took four catches and also instigated a run out. Benny Ellis top scored for the home team with 67, while Freddie Martin added 43, including a 122 part-

nership between the pair for the fifth wicket in 16 overs. The winning margin was 154, handing Cheltenham their fourth win of the season, lifting them above Lechlade and into fifth place in the table ahead of Saturday’s home match against Shapwick and Polden. In the Gloucestershire Division, Cheltenham Civil Service were beaten at Bourton Vale, Woodmancote won at Chipping Sodbury and Hatherley and Reddings were victorious at Stroud.

Tri pair ready to represent Britain in Euros TRIATHLON

A PAIR of super fit Cheltonians will represent Great Britain at the 2015 Age Group Standard Distance Triathlon European Championships in Geneva on Sunday. Dave Roper will be competing in the 30-34 age bracket, while his partner Jo Wilkie will be in the 35-39 category. The standard distance involves a 1,500m swim, followed by a 40k cycle and ends with a 10k run. Wilkie qualified in June of last year in the Dambuster Triathlon, while Roper booked his place in August at the British Championships in Liverpool, two of the three qualifying races. This will be Wilkie’s third year of triathlon having turned to the sport from a running background after

some knee injuries. In her first season she realised she could be quite competitive so the following year, she made qualifying to represent Great Britain her target and achieved it ready for year three. “Training has gone quite well and I feel ready for the race and just excited to get out there and compete,” she said. “As to how I can expect to do; this is a whole other level of competition for me and will be a completely new experience, so I think I will realistically just hope to be in the top half.” Roper on the other hand has more of a background in triathlon and has competed at this level before. Then for a number of years he focused on duathlon (running and cycling) where his strengths lie and achieved gold medals at Eu-

Dave Roper

Jo Wilkie

ropean and World Championships and represented Great Britain at an elite level, taking him to Columbia for the World Games in Columbia in 2013. He was supporting Wilkie in her triathlon races, which was a great help when she was inexperienced, but the hen decided it had given him the bug again and he would like to compete in Triathlon again too. So, after Wilkie’s qualifying race in June, Roper set himself the goal of qualifying at the British Championships in August, which he

did, so off just six weeks training. He said: “Having come in the top 10 overall at the British Championships, last year, I’ve continued my focus on Triathlon training and I would really like to replicate that at the European Championships in Geneva. “Injury problems have hampered run training but overall fitness is good so a top 15 overall is my target, and having just come third in my age category at the recent English Championships I am feeling positive.”

9 JULY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT Marshall and Klinger guide County to win over rivals CRICKET: NatWest T20 Blast

GLOUCESTERSHIRE kept their hopes of reaching the NatWest T20 Blast quarterfinals alive with an eight wicket win over local rivals Somerset at Taunton. Hamish Marshall (93) and Michael Klinger (58) put on a magnificent opening stand of 156 as the visitors chased down the 175 needed to win, regaining West country bragging rights in the process. Their recent poor run against their neighbours – which included a five wicket defeat at Bristol last month – was put to bed with two consecutive fours by Peter Handscomb in the final over from Jamie Overton. Gloucestershire’s evening got off to a bad start, losing the toss and being asked to field. Somerset dominated the opening exchanges with openers Johann Myburgh and Jim Allenby taking advantage of anything slight off line or length. After four overs they had raced to 40-0, but momentum changed with the introduction of Benny Howell. Varying his pace the allrounder slowed the scoring and then flattened Allenby’s (22) leg stump with a quicker yorker to make it 44-1. Mybugh required treatment in the sixth over after being hit in the head by a Craig Miles bouncer. He was dropped by the bowler two balls later before an eventful power play finished with the score on 47-1. No bowler has taken more wickets in the Blast than Tom Smith and he added to his tally when Peter Trego (2) picked out Hamish Marshall on the cover boundary to make it 51-2. Glos captain Michael Klinger unleashed second

spinner Jack Taylor in the ninth over and he repaid him with his very first ball, James Hildreth LBW for 5 and the score 60-3 after missing a reverse sweep. The same shot nearly proved Tom Cooper’s undoing but he was dropped by Kieron Noema-Barnett at backward point in Taylor’s next over. With the score on 85, Howell picked up the crucial wicket of Myburgh for 38, caught Ian Cockbain at long off. The same fielder failed to hang on to a tough chance off Cooper in the following over which was bowled by Smith. The drops proved costly as the Australian combined with New Zealand wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi to put on 81 for the fifth wicket. Taylor came in for particular punishment in the 17th over as he was flayed for three slog swept sixes – two from Ronchi, one from Cooper as the score progressed to 141-4. Ronchi smashed two more maximums in the next over from Howell and another from Fuller before skying to Smith at point for 49 off just 22 balls. Fuller then made it two in two balls as Cooper (38) bottom edged a slower to Geraint Jones who took a brilliant one-handed catch. Jamie Overton top edged a four off Miles in the final over to help the hosts finish on 174-6. In reply Glos openers Marshall and Klinger started patiently, reaching 11-0 after two overs. But they hit the accelerator pedal in the third over, Klinger hitting three fours off Overton to make it 26-0. From here the pair continued to find the boundary with regularity – scoring at least two fours in each of the

Hamish Marshall

next three overs to reach 620 by the end of the power play – 15 ahead of the home side at the same stage. The first six of the innings came in the eighth over as Klinger sent Max Waller straight back over his head. At the halfway stage the visitors had moved on to 93-0. The two batsmen had been going shot for shot but Marshall reached his 50 first with a cover drive off Overton in the 11th. He hit a six and four off Allenby in the next over and seemed intent on winning the game with overs to spare. Klinger reached his 50 in fortuitous fashion in the 13th over as Alfonso Thomas dropped a dolly on the third man boundary and he scampered a two. At the other end Marshall was going like a train and smote a towering six over square leg from Thomas in the 14th to get Glos 40 short of the Somerset score with six overs remaining. The pair brought up their 150 partnership off the third ball of the 16th over and seemed content to do it in singles with less than a run a ball required. The biggest surprise of the night was that both fell before the end. Marshall was caught at deep midwicket by Waller off Overton for a sparkling 93 from 53 balls with 10 fours and three sixes. Klinger joined him back in

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the dugout the next over LBW Thomas for 58 from 51 balls. After losing the last two games in the final two deliveries Glos didn’t want this one going to the wire as well. It reached the final over but Handscomb and Cockbain kept their cool to secure a famous win over their noisy neighbours.

Historic Festival underway at Cheltenham CRICKET >> CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE

Championship game with Northamptonshire. On Monday, July 13, the Festival welcomes the Lord’s Taverners who will be competing in a fun day of cricket with two starstudded teams, 30 overs per team. MIUS Lord’s Taverners versus Ecclesiastical Gloucestershire Legends past and present. Ground tickets are £5, available on the day. Festival Match Day Tickets cost from just £15 for adults and £3 for 18s and under when purchased in advance or for only £100 a Cheltenham Festival Pass is available which covers all 10 days of First Class cricket.

Under-18s can enjoy every day of the Festival (plus domestic matches at Bristol) by becoming a Junior ‘Marshall’ Member for just £20. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.gloscricket.co.uk/tick ets or call 0117 910 8010. Supporters can also enjoy the superb views from one of our hospitality marquees, a popular attraction for businesses and those celebrating a special occasion. Packages – including lunch and tea – are from £85.00 inc. VAT pp ( July 12 and 15 sold out). More information on hospitality is available from Cariad Silk who can be contacted on 0117 910 8022 or email cariad.silk@glosccc.co.uk.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 9 JULY 2015

SPORT

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

Johnson adds two more ahead of opening friendly... with more to come FOOTBALL

GARY Johnson has added to more players to his almost completely rebuilt squad as Cheltenham Town prepare for their opening pre-season friendly of the summer at Cirencester Town on Saturday (3pm). Young goalkeeper Dillon Phillips has joined on a youth loan from Charlton Athletic, set to run for an initial six months. He has been joined at Whaddon Road by 19-yearold left-back George McLennan, who has signed a one year deal following his release by Reading at the end of last season. The duo take the total number of new signings to 10, with another goalkeeper expected to put pen to paper on Thursday and a central defender still to come after the departure of Matt Taylor to Newport County. Scotland Under-19 international McLennan joined the Royals in 2012 after leaving Gillingham. He memorably scored a 119th minute leveller against Liverpool after going on as a substitute in the FA Youth Cup quarterfinal, which Reading went on to win. He finished that season with 27 appearances and

two goals and signed his first professional contract at the Madejski Stadium in July 2014. The 19-year-old, who is from Ashford in Kent, spent time at Vanarama National League South club Hayes and Yeading last season, tasting senior first team football for the first time. “George is a player I’ve kept an eye on and he was unlucky to be released by Reading,” Johnson said. “We took a chance, I met him and he took some convincing, but after meeting the lads and playing in a trial match I think it was impressed with what he saw. “He wanted to be a part of a successful team here and at the age of 19, he is a fantastic athlete and he can get up and down the pitch.” Phillips, 20, has been training with the Robins since day one of pre-season and impressed Johnson in a trial match at Winchcombe School last week, with the manager already fully aware of his potential. Addicks academy graduate Phillips is described by the manager as a '30-yearold 20-year-old' due to his maturity and authoritative style for such a young player. “I am very pleased to

bring Dillon here because he is a good keeper, who is highly rated at Charlton,” Johnson said. “He is certainly no shrinking violet. At 20 it's very difficult to get regular games in a Championship side so it suits him, us and Charlton for him to get regular games here. “I have known of him for a while and he's done very well for Charlton's Under21s. “It's a youth loan, despite the fact he looks 30! The plan is for it to be for at least six months, which will give him an opportunity and he wants to get into the Cheltenham way of life, both on and off the pitch. “He is a good lad and he will certainly let people know when they've made a mistake or if he's not happy with something and you don't usually get that from a keeper until the age of 26 or 28, but he has it already.” Phillips has previously spent time on loan at Whitehawk and Bishop's Stortford and has captained Charlton's Under-21 side. He has now joined up with former teammate Jack Munns, who joined the Robins on a one-year deal following his departure from The Valley in May.

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Norwell spell gets County oﬀ to ﬂying start at College CRICKET

Dillon Phillips George McLennan

A SUPER spell of bowling from former Cheltenham paceman Liam Norwell handed Gloucestershire a positive start to this year’s Festival at the College. Norwell took five wickets to reduce Northamptonshire to 186 for six on day one of the LV= County Championship Division Two match. This year's Festival runs through to Saturday, July 18 and includes two NatWest T20 Blast matches as well as two County Championship games. Off the pitch throughout the two weeks, professional cricket coaching will be available to juniors free of charge, along with a chance to experience the ever popular inflatable bowling cage. The Festival will once again feature a Ladies’ Day on Thursday (July) during the TURN TO PAGE 23 >