Cheltenham Standard 5th March 2015 by Cotswold Style Ltd

FREE www.spirecliniccheltenham.co.uk

5 MARCH 2015 ISSUE 33

www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

VICKERY’S VIEW

Phil Vickery MBE shares his thoughts on the 2015 RBS Six Nations

PAGE 29

/cheltenhamstandard

All you need to know about the

WIN TICKETS TO 2015 WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL 2015

PAGE 6

PAGES 28 & 30

SUFFOLK ROAD WORKS FINISHED

ROAD OPENS LUNCHTIME THURSDAY 5TH MARCH

“WE really appreciate the support and patience local traders and residents have shown us while we’ve been working in Suffolk Road. The work is now complete and we’ll be reopening the road today, Thursday 5th March at lunchtime,” said Wayne Ellis from Severn Trent Water. That was the word from the water company, who, with its contract partners, NMCNomenca, has been laying new, larger sewer pipes in Suffolk Road to prevent sewer flooding for local properties. Wayne explains: “As many will know, we’ve come up

against some challenges in Suffolk Road as the ground is mostly sand and it was struggling to hold the new pipes we were putting in. We’re pleased to say that the work is all finished – we just have some resurfacing work to do and then the road will be open to drivers on Thursday lunchtime. The businesses on Suffolk Road have been so supportive, which we’re extremely thankful for. We’ve kept in regular contact with them, as well as Gloucestershire County Council Highways, during the whole process.”

Paco Delgado, from Paco Delgado hair salon and his team, and KT Johnston from Lovedge Gifts

40% OFF

Selected Kitchens and Bathrooms

Sunnybank Stables, London Road, Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire GL54 4HG

NOTHING CONCENTRATES A LAWYER’S MIND LIKE PREPARING TO ARGUE YOUR CASE IN COURT. Get your legal advice and representation from direct access barristers with experience gained at the cutting edge of practice. Specialist barristers, direct to business and individual clients, now available in Cheltenham.

TURN TO PAGE TWO >

www.cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com

@CheltStandard

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN CHELTENHAM Tel: 01242 210090 enquiries@cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.co.uk

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

Cheltenham WeatherWatch THURSDAY 5th March Min 4ºC Max 10ºC FRIDAY 6th March Min 5ºC Max 10ºC SATURDAY 7th March Min 6ºC Max 12ºC SUNDAY 8th March Min 6ºC Max 12ºC MONDAY 9th March Min 4ºC Max 11ºC TUESDAY 10th March Min 3ºC Max 9ºC WEDNESDAY 11th March Min 4ºC Max 10ºC

EDITOR editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Value for money emerges as key election battleground WITH fewer than 65 days until Cheltenham goes to the polls, MPs’ expenses are again under the spotlight. Under rules set by the parliamentary watchdog (IPSA) MPs are allowed to claim taxpayers’ cash for staffing, travel and office costs, as well as the cost of accommodation in London. According to IPSA, Cheltenham’s Lib Dem MP claimed £183,087.44 in 2013/2014. That is the second highest amount in Gloucestershire, behind Conservative-held Stroud. However, the figure in Cheltenham is higher than Gloucester, Tewkesbury, the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean. The equivalent claim by the Gloucester’s Conservative MP over the same period was £154,582.32. Quizzed on his own plans, Cheltenham’s Tory MP hopeful Alex Chalk, pledged to be cheaper than his predecessor if elected in May. Speaking to the Standard, Mr. Chalk said:

“Public services are being asked to do more with less. Why should MPs be any different? If elected I pledge to cut the expenses bill to the local taxpayer by 10%. That’s tough, but it’s right.’’ He went on to add: “Politicians also need to make it easier for their constituents to see if they’re getting value for money. That’s why I would distribute an annual report to the people of Cheltenham setting out what had been achieved on their behalf in the past year. Then Cheltonians can judge for themselves. There are significant sums of public money at stake here, and transparency has

SPORTS jon@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk ADVERTISING mark@stylemagazines.co.uk bethany.lynch@stylemagazines.co.uk sales@stylemagazines.co.uk RECRUITMENT recruitment@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

GOT A STORY? CALL US ON

01242 257019 www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk Twitter: @CheltStandard www.facebook.com/cheltenhamstandard

Want to be a reporter? We’re on the hunt for local stories that are happening in your area. Send us your local reports on anything from mums and toddlers, through to the local moggy getting stuck up a tree.

We want to know! Drop your local stories onto our lap at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Safer taxi queues thanks to CCTV TAXI marshals in Cheltenham will be equipped with the latest body worn CCTV cameras from this weekend. The Promenade rank serves an average of around 1500 people each weekend and considerably more during special events such as the Festivals and Gold Cup race meeting. Taxi ranks have historically been hot spots for disorder and the introduction of the marshals in 2009 has led to a considerable reduction in incidents. The new cameras which are already in use by police officers in a number of forces are able to record high resolution video and audio. Their use is intended to support the work of the marshals by demonstrating to the public that their

actions could be recorded, leading to fewer assaults on marshals, taxi drivers and members of the public. The cameras will supplement the radio link that the marshals have to the police. Colin Pilsworth, the council’s community protection officer said: ‘’Areas such as busy taxi ranks can be hot spots for disorder because of the high numbers of people gathering in one place at the end of a night out. The marshals have a tough job and can be exposed to unacceptable behaviour. The cameras will offer increased protection and hopefully drive down instances of anti-social behaviour.’’ Councillor Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for safety added: ‘’Chel-

tenham is well known for its great bars and clubs and we have a thriving nighttime economy. Key to this is a feeling of personal safety for those working and those enjoying a night out. I am pleased that the taxi marshals will now be equipped with these state of the art body worn cameras.’’ The new cameras have been purchased by Cheltenham Nightsafe, with funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s ‘Safe days and nights for all’ initiative. Cheltenham Nightsafe is the crime reduction partnership for the night-time economy of Cheltenham with members including bars, clubs, fast food outlets and late night convenience stores.

never been more important.” He finally added: “There is a duty on all of us to do what we can to restore trust in our democracy. Value for money and transparency are a key part of that.”

Roadworks to end CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Since work started back in June last year, Severn Trent Water has laid over a kilometre of new sewer pipes. Work is ongoing in Roman Road, Fawley Drive and Whaddon Road. Mark Stephens, Managing Director of the Daffodil restaurant commented, “We’re all so glad the work has now been completed. I have to say that Severn Trent Water have been absolutely brilliant in the way they have been keeping us all informed.’’ Wayne adds: “We want to assure everyone that all businesses are open as usual so please support your local traders. We’ve really been encouraged by the support we’ve received from local businesses and residents while we’ve been working in Cheltenham. Again, we’re sorry for any inconvenience all of the work may cause, but we hope that people in Cheltenham can see the real benefits it will bring. We’ll be helping to prevent sewer flooding from affecting homes across the town. Anyone who has experienced sewer flooding will tell you, it’s a horrible thing to happen, and it’s our job to stop it.” NMC Nomenca is carrying out the work on behalf of Severn Trent Water. You can find out more at www.northmid.co.uk/cheltenham. For help with water or sewerage services, customers can call Severn Trent 24 hours a day on 0800 783 4444.

SPRING OPEN MORNINGS Friday 13th March (U11) Saturday 14th March (11+) All welcome. Please register

Admissions@rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Indian Summers in Cheltenham CRAIG PARKINSON, star of Channel 4’s new drama ‘Indian Summers’, topped the exclusive list of celebrities and VIP’s attending the official launch party of Room 101, on The Prom last Friday. Owned by waxing goddess, Carolyn Lacy from Cheltenham, Room 101 is transforming the waxing experience for both ladies and gentlemen and bringing a passion for the ‘hot stuff’ to the town like never before. Carolyn ran the successful ‘Waxing Bar’ in Cheltenham for 10 years, but has just moved her specialist team to the heart of The Promenade. Named after the torture room in George Orwell’s play, 1984, Carolyn said: “As soon as I viewed 101 Promenade, I absolutely knew it was the perfect place. Light and airy with a ‘New York’ loft apartment feel about it. We

thought the name was very apt for a waxing bar!” At the ribbon-snipping event Craig Parkinson said: “This is the only waxing bar my wife will use in Cheltenham. It’s been great to be asked by my good friend Carolyn to officially open her new venture. I wish her the best of luck.” Having opened Room101 for business at the beginning of January. Carolyn commented: “I have been overwhelmed

by the positive response to the new salon so far. So many new clients are finding us through word of mouth recommendations, which makes me so proud of the team and tells me that what we are offering is exactly what our clients are looking for.” The post launch after party continued in the club lounge & bar, AngeNoir, where the celebrations went on into the night.

REGENCY

DRY CLEANERS

OF CHELTENHAM

SPECIAL OFFER 4 Garments for £14 T&C’s apply: Leather, Suede, Curtain Cleaning & Evening Wear are not included in this offer

15% OFF WITH THIS ADVERT

2 Hour Dry Cleaning Available | 6 days a week Repairs & Alterations

20% OFF Curtain Cleaning

Wedding Dresses / Boxing Services Duvet Cleaning

Tel: 01242 520586

11 Grosvenor Terrace, Cheltenham GL52 2SA (find us next to Argos on The Strand)

Open Mon Fri 8.00am 5.30pm & Saturday 9am 5pm. Closed Sundays

PHOTO: ANGUS BETHUNE

Cancer charity hit by burglars

Town centre closed after car crash LAST Saturday two women were taken to hospital after being hit by a car in the centre of the town. The accident happened in Clarence Street at around 7.10pm and involved an orange Honda CRX car that had left the road, mounted the pavement and almost hit the Superdry store, near to the bus shelter. Police said two female pedestrians were taken to hospital after being in collision with an orange two-seater Honda CRX two seater sports car. Clarence Parade and Clarence Street – the main through route in the town centre – were closed while the two casualties were treated and for police investigations to begin. The road reopened at 10.30pm.

ALEXANDER BURN FUNERAL DIRECTORS

www.alexanderburn.com

GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are appealing for witnesses after a front door of a cancer charity shop was smashed open - causing damage worth the equivalent to a day’s cancer treatment. The offender(s) broke into the Sue Ryder Shop, Edinburgh Place, Cheltenham sometime between 1700hrs on 21/02/15 and 1040hrs on 22/02/15.

A PlayStation was taken from the window display, but the damage to the glass door (which runs into hundreds of pounds) is the cost equivalent of a day’s palliative nursing at their hospice. Police would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area between the given dates and times, contact the police via 101.

Drugs raid in Church Road POLICE have arrested two people on suspicion of possession with intent to supply a Class A controlled drug following a raid on a flat in Cheltenham. During the search of the property, in Church Road, officers found approx. 1 ounce of what is believed to be cocaine.

Also seized was a large quantity of cash, some jewellery, a number of mobile phones, a set of digital scales and a quantity of betting slips. A 45-year-old male from Cheltenham and a 21-yearold female from Cheltenham have been released on police bail.

To advertise in the Cheltenham Standard call one of our sales team

01242 257019 Alexander Burn is an independent family business with three offices in the Cheltenham area.

COURTEOUS, EFFICIENT AND RESPECTFUL 24 hour personal service | Private chapels of rest Bishops Cleeve 22 Church Road 01242 673300

Cheltenham 436 High Street 01242 245350

Winchcombe 11 North Street 01242 604888

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

Dowty propeller factory is being demolished after blaze

Woman racially abused and assaulted in Cheltenham

MOST of the Dowty Propeller site, in Staverton, which was severely damaged by a ferocious blaze on 4th February, the cause of which is still being investigated, is being reduced to rubble and will be removed. The firm said the demolition would be “slow and carefully controlled” to support the ongoing investigation and see what

equipment can be salvaged. Around 250 staff worked at the site with 65% of those now redeployed. Many of the engineers have been moved to a facility in Bishop’s Cleeve, managed by parent company GE Aviation. “We continue to evaluate a number of options for a temporary facility within a 30-mile radius,”

said a spokeswoman for GE. “We have to consider many factors when selecting an interim facility including security, environmental conditions, health and safety, footprint, as well as limiting disruption for our employees.” The firm’s main production line made propellers for the C130J Super Hercules and the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400.

CHEFS ON TOUR GET £5K GRANT FOR ROADSHOWS GLOUCESTERSHIRE College’s Chefs on Tour – Cheltenham project has been awarded a £5,000 grant by Cheltenham Borough Council to deliver a series of educational roadshows inspiring young people to get involved in cooking and healthy eating. Supporting the Gloucestershire Health and Well Being Strategy, the Chefs on Tour – Cheltenham project will reach 500 primary and secondary schoolchildren and their teachers, as well as their families and the wider school communities through ‘tried and tested’ recipe cards given to the children, which will also be avail-

able on the Gloucestershire College website. During the 15 interactive roadshows pupils will be encouraged to bring in locally-grown produce to see how it can be incorporated into tasty and nutritious meals. The College’s experienced chefs, Shaun Naen (pictured) and Gareth CrwysWilliams, will bring out the fun in cooking, showcase the benefits of fresh and flavourful ingredients, and encourage healthy lifestyles from an early age, which is a vital way of reducing obesity in young people.

The grant has been awarded as part of Cheltenham Borough Council’s Health Inequalities Funding for 2014-15, which aims to support the delivery of health inequality projects across communities of interest in Cheltenham. Gareth Crwys-Williams, Head Chef and Head of School for Catering and Hospitality said: “We’re delighted to have been awarded the grant for the Chefs on Tour – Cheltenham project. “Chefs on Tour has been working with Gloucestershire

schools to deliver successful cookery demonstrations for several years now; giving children a chance to try new foods and get stuck into cooking. This year, thanks to the grant, we can continue to work closely with schools in Cheltenham to promote healthy eating and the benefits of using fresh, local ingredients.” Chefs on Tour – Cheltenham officially launched last Sunday and will run until Friday 31st July. For more information about Gloucestershire College’s Chefs on Tour, visit www.gloscol.ac.uk/ chefsontour or call Student Services on 0845 155 2020.

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a racially aggravated assault in Cheltenham. Just after 4.30pm on Thursday 26th February a woman was talking on her phone as she walked along Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham. Two men, hearing her speak a foreign language, started to shout racial abuse at her. They then blocked her path to the front and rear and began kicking her legs and back. They also tried to pull her rucksack from her back. She managed to run away down Tanners Lane before asking for help from an elderly lady in the street. The two offenders are described as white males in their thirties. One had blonde hair and was wearing jeans and red jumper. The other, also wearing jeans, had dark blonde hair and was wearing a blue hoodie with the hood up. Police would like to hear from the member of the public who the woman requested help from, or anyone who witnessed the incident or recognises the descriptions of the offenders. Please call 101 quoting incident number 85 of 27th February 2015.

Soapbox By COUNCILLOR KLARA SUDBURY BENJAMIN Franklin said the only certainties in life are death and taxes. Being a councillor there is at least one other third certainty and that is by pleasing some people you will almost certainly make others extremely disgruntled. After years of being asked by a large number of Leckhampton residents for a one-way system on streets to the east of the Bath Road shopping area, it has finally happened. And whilst many residents are metaphorically hanging out the bunting in celebration, there are others who have let me know how strongly they object to the scheme in no uncertain terms. My ‘Highways Local’ funds have provided this once in a life time opportunity to see if a one-way system for Naunton Crescent, Exmouth Street, Francis Street and Hermitage Street will help make the traffic issues in the area better. The one-way scheme is part of an ‘Experimental Traffic Order’ which will be regularly reviewed and can be amended or halted if it causes problems. It is only fair to trial such a scheme so all residents can assess for themselves if it is a good or bad thing for the area. If it does cause too many problems it won’t be made permanent but at least there was a chance to try it. Elsewhere in Leckhampton developers hoping to build 376 houses on idyllic farm

land on the edge of Cheltenham have got a bit ahead of themselves. Tewkesbury Borough Council has not yet decided the planning application to develop land at Farm Lane and says it won’t be considered until June at the earliest. The small technicality of not having planning permission hasn’t stopped Redrow Homes from ripping up a long stretch of hedgerow on Leckhampton Lane which will be part of the access into the site. They have also cut down part of a small woodland area and put netting over a long stretch of hedgerow on Farm Lane to prevent nesting birds causing any delays if they should get planning permission. An application to protect the remaining woodland on Farm Lane has been made by a local resident and Tewkesbury Borough has been asked if the developer has complied with the regulations regarding the management of hedgerows. As the future of this beautiful area hangs in the balance, its fate will be decided by councillors living nowhere near Cheltenham. It is time for Cheltenham Borough Council’s boundary to be reviewed to ensure we are not constantly at the mercy of what councillors living miles away have planned for the outskirts of our town.

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

The Aviator

Shop burgled on The Promenade

Cafe Pub Restaurant

MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY March 15th – BOOK NOW *KIDS EAT FREE DURING EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Friday 27 March-Sunday 12 April *Kids meal free with every adult main meal purchased

Free Wifi access G Alcoholic and soft beverages G Specialty coffees, tea and homemade cakes G Breakfast from 9am G Main menu and lighter bites from noon G Children’s menu and daily specials board G Sunday roasts and Sunday menu Gloucestershire Airport, Staverton, Cheltenham GL51 6SR www.theaviatorglos.co.uk Email: info@theaviatorglos.co.uk

01452 714442

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a second burglary from a clothes shop on The Promenade. Officers received a call at 5.00am on Wednesday 25th February by a member of the public who was walking past and found clothes dropped on the street. Offenders had smashed a pane of glass in the door of the shop, gained entry and various items of stock were taken. They then left the store dropping a number of items as they went.

This is the second time the shop has been targeted in a few days. The offenders ran along the Promenade to Ormond Place and then on to Regent Street. CCTV footage shows one of the offenders pulling a wheelie bin across the road at Boots corner. Police are asking for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area between 3.00am and 5.00am on Wednesday 25th February 2015 to contact them on 101 quoting incident no. 29 of 25/02/15.

Sainsburys sees red for comic relief VOLUNTEERS from Sainsburys in Bath Road wearing clothes chosen for them by a local charity shop have been out collecting for Comic Relief in the Regents arcade for the last two Saturdays. In the next few weeks you could

catch a glimpse of the crazy gang in the Beechwood Arcade and at Cheltenham Town FC on 7th March. All in a very good cause of course. They are also selling red noses and are able to take donations in store.

CAMRA ANNOUNCE THE 2015 PUB AND CLUB OF THE YEAR FOR the first time the Campaign for Real Ale’s Cheltenham branch have decided to announce the winner for both the Pub and Club of the Year in a novel way. Branch Chair, Veronica Emary said: “Instead of just announcing the winner of each award, we decided we would also include two finalists. The reason for this is to give recognition to those pubs, landlords and staff who were very close to the top prize, and to encourage everyone to put in that little bit more effort to get into the top three. Real ale drinkers in Cheltenham are seeing standards improve in many of our pubs and clubs and this is one way of demonstrating that fact.” Pub of the Year The winner of the Cheltenham Pub of the year award for 2015 is the Sandford Park Alehouse. The ‘Sandford’ also took the accolade last year, so it’s a two year lockout for this hugely popular ale house. The High Street pub only opened in April 2013. In that time Grant Cook and his phe-

BUY NO NOW W–P PAY AY NEXT EXT YEAR! AR! 0% Finance PRIO PRIOR OR PRO PRODUCTS ODUCT TS ltd

nomenal team have built a strong reputation for quality and choice. The number of different draught real ales served has just passed a mind boggling 1,000. In addition to the regularly changing real ales there are 16 craft keg ales, 80 bottled world beers, great bar food at proper prices, bar billiards and a beer garden next to the river Chelt. The other finalists this year are the Jolly Brewmaster and the Royal Union. Club of the Year The winner of the Cheltenham Club of the Year award for 2015 goes to the Cheltenham Motor Club. The CMC was the 2013 National CAMRA Club of the Year and is the current holder of the Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, South West Region and Super Regional Club. The club is also on the final-four shortlist for the 2015 National Club of the Year - so winning this award is not unexpected. The two other finalists are the Charlton Kings Club and St. Stephen’s Sports & Social Club.

For F orr a limit limited ed time only only

upp ttoo

35%

DISCOUNT DISCOUNT AActt ffast! sst! t!

WINDOWS, WINDO W CONSERVATORIES, WS, CONSERV ERV VATORIES, S GARAGE S, GARAGE E DOORS Manufacturers Manuf acturers and iinstallers nstallers of bespoke bespoke PVCu PVCu windows, w windows, doors doors and conservatories. conservatories. A family family run company companyy established established 26 years. years.

NO O

Deeposits posits

and

FREE FREE

Quotations! Q uota tati tionss!

WINDOWS, WINDO WS, DOORS & CONSERV CONSERVATORIES VATORIES

GARAGE G A GE DOORS ARA

GRP DOOR C CANOPIES ANOPIES PIES

Q Sav Save e up tto o 28% on yyour ou ur yyearly early ener energy gy bills Energy with BFRC Ener gy rated rated windows windows Q BFRC manuf manufacturers acturers and installers installers Q Planitherm appr approved oved installers installers Q Col Coloured available oured grained grained windows windows av ailable Q Repair Repairss to to windows windows and an nd glass glass replacement replacement Q Aluminium and w wooden oode en fr frames ames av available ailable Q Bi-f Bi-fold Orangeries old doors doors and Or angeries QT Trade Frames rade F rames (supply (supply only) only) also available available

Q St Steel, S eel, GRP and Timber doors doors QV Variety ariety of sstyles tyles and colours colours Q Optional O working w orking mechanisms and d rremote emote

Q Superb range range of styles styl yles and colours colours Q Self supporting and d space space saving

FASCIAS, F ASCIAS, A , SOFFITS & GUTTERING G Q Overcloak O ercloak or replacement Ov replacement products productss Q Different D erent colours Diff colours and woodgrain woodgrain options ptions available a ailable av

GRP C CAR AR PORTS & P PATIO ATIO CANOPIES CANOPIES Q Practical Practical and safe safe Q Enjoy Enjo j y the great great outdoors g outdoor doors Q Totally Totally self supportive, supportiv tive, more more space space and no posts posts Q 10 year year product product warranty warr rranty Q Maintenance Maintenance free free products products

Visit our Sho Showroom wroom o at Str Stratford atford Gar Garden den Centr Centre, e, Clifford Clifford Chambers, Chamber bers, Near Stratford Stratford Upon on Avon Avon CV37 CV37 8LW 8LW Low Lo w rrate ate financ finance e offers offers available av ailable all year year round! round!!

CCall all 01789 720222 2 orr 01386 422000 oorr vvisit isit it www www.priorproducts.co.uk .priorpr i ro oducts.c d t o.uk k

Opening Times:: Monday-F Monday-Friday/Sunday riday/Sundayy 10am-4pm

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

COMPETITION WIN one of five pairs of tickets to 2015 Who Do You think You Are? To celebrate the brand new event venue at the Birmingham NEC, Who Do You Think You Are? Live is giving away five pairs of tickets for Cheltenham Standard readers. Based on the popular television programme, which celebrated its 100th episode earlier this year - and which saw the likes of Billy Connelly, Minnie Driver and Mary Berry trace their family trees to reveal the surprising, extraordinary and often moving stories of their ancestors - the live event has drawn flocks of people over the last eight years in London. Now at the NEC, and sponsored by Ancestry.co.uk, the three day exhibition is designed to appeal to everyone with an interest in tracing their past. Competition winners of Who Do You Think You Are? Live will have access to leading genealogical experts, informative workshops, over 120 specialist exhibitors, archives and museums, major online resources and the largest gathering of family history societies all in one place. A whole host of experts will be on hand to help unearth your family links.

The competition will allow you and a friend a day’s entrance to the event (tickets normally priced at £16 per person) on either Thursday 16th, Friday 17th or Saturday 18th April. To have the chance of winning one of five pairs of tickets just answer this simple question:

BILLY CONNELLY IS FROM WHICH CITY? A. EDINBURGH B. BIRMINGHAM C. GLASGOW Answers to editor@cheltenham standard.co.uk

Hi, I'm Karen Jameson a very busy mum in Cheltenham!

I have a flexible childcare business called Tick Tocks Flexible Childcare allowing mums to have reliable, safe play for their child when they need to attend a meeting, go shopping or have an hour in the gym! I also have a Body By Vi Challenge Cheltenham & Cotswolds business where I help people get into shape by losing weight or shredding fat for a leaner look. I take the products myself and have lost over 4 stone and now im looking for people to promote the business with me so if you have a bit of spare time you could find yourself with a great income based on referrals! Please feel free to contact me if you have an interest in any of my services as I’m more than happy to chat!

WANTED

GENUINE PEOPLE WHO WOULD LIKE TO USE WORLD CLASS NUTRITION TO AID LOSING WEIGHT. NO PILLS OR FADS HERE!

First randomly picked correct five answers win the tickets Use the following link and code, CHELT15, to be entitled to a discount when buying tickets (2 tickets for £26, down from the regular price of £32) http://www.whodoyouthinkyouarelive.com/)

Friend Request me, Personal Message me or call me on:

07886 740314 Email: karenjameson01@yahoo.co.uk or PM me for phone details for an informal chat. I look forward to hearing from you and possibly helping you and others, lose the lbs whilst gaining £'s.

From left to right Terry (Counsellor), Kimberley (Service Development Manager) and Claudette (Receptionist).

Red nose Relate THE Young Survivors Project, run by Relate Gloucestershire and Swindon, is a project which has been funded by Comic Relief and the donations you make on Red Nose Day. The project has enabled Relate to offer free counselling to 11-25 year olds from Gloucestershire and Swindon who have witnessed and/or experienced domestic abuse either from their parents or from their own first relationships. Kimberley Wall, Service Development Manager, says: “It is imperative that specialist services are offered to survivors of domestic abuse otherwise victims may unknowingly become involved in

another abusive relationship due to not understanding the dynamics of abuse. Before Comic Relief funded the Young Survivors Project our local area simply did not offer this one-to-one therapeutic service which has now helped many young people talk about and move on from their trauma.” The project has been particularly successful in that, of the young people who completed their counselling in the first year; 80% displayed higher levels of self-esteem and 100% reported feeling better able to cope. This has resulted, on occasion, intangible changes such as a client applying for college and a client managing to stop selfharming.

Allotments up for grabs! CHELTENHAM Borough Council is advertising vacant plots on two of its allotment sites, as waiting lists across the borough continue to shrink. The Midwinter and Hayden Road sites in the north of the town both have plots available immediately for Cheltenham residents looking to ‘grow their own’. “This is a great time of year to take on a plot,” says allotment officer, Fiona Warin. “There is still time to clear and prepare the ground before the start of the main growing season. “Some people may have been put off applying in the past, due to the long wait. We would encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch, as they could get one straight away.” Those with allotments are as enthusiastic as ever, with one tenant at Hayden Road describing her site as ‘the best place in the world to spend time, get fresh air, get fitter, grow amazing food and invite friends for a cuppa!’ Cllr Chris Coleman, cabinet member for clean and green environment, continues: “Allotment sites are more bio-diverse than any other publicly-owned green space. Fresh air and exercise, friendship and healthy fresh fruit and vegetables are all among the rewards for the individual plot-holder. So, if you know anyone who might be interested, now could be a good time to apply.” Waiting lists in the south of the borough are also falling but residents might still expect to wait a year or more, particularly for the sites with a low rate of plot turnover. Interested in applying? Visit the council’s website: www.cheltenham.gov.uk/allotments and fill in an online application form.

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Bishops Cleeve Street Fair on way! THE ANNUAL Bishops Cleeve street fair is to happen again this year. Following on from the British summer holiday theme which was so successful last year, they are using Europe as their theme for this year. The street fair is a popular, well attended event in the village and has its Main Street closed to traffic which means that the whole area is taken up with a wide variety of stalls and other attractions, with other events taking place in locations around the village. All the money raised goes to support local charities and the provision of

Cyclist hit by car GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are appealing for witnesses following a cyclist being knocked off his bike by a car. Just before midday on Monday of this week a 44-year-old man was cycling along Alstone Lane towards Orchard Way. He entered the roundabout with Brooklyn Road and as he exited towards Orchard way he was clipped by a vehicle on the left hand side. The vehicle, described as a faded red Renault Clio, continued along Brooklyn

Christmas lights in Bishops Cleeve. This year’s fair will be held on Sunday 14th June. The organisers are hoping to attract more food stalls this year, especially those with a European flavour, but also welcome producers of local foodstuff. If you are a producer and want to promote your produce to a wider audience, the organisers would be very pleased to hear from you. They can provide you with a covered market stall or if you prefer you may bring your own gazebo, details on request from Sue on 01242 672541.

Road and then stopped. The driver of the car, a woman in her twenties, walked back to the cyclist to check on his welfare. She then got back into her car and drove off down Brooklyn Road towards Grevil Road. She was wearing a black waist length coat with black leggings. She had black, curly shoulder length hair. The cyclist did not require hospital treatment but did sustain cuts and bruises. Police would like to hear from the driver of the car or anyone who witnessed the incident. Please call 101 quoting incident number 166 of 2nd March 2015.

TheVIBE

A snapshot of student life in Cheltenham

TO VOTE OR NOT TO VOTE BY FRANCESCA COBY WITH the student elections now having come to a close, our Student Union (SU) president, along with other candidates have been elected. 1066 votes were cast and the winners of these new (salary paid) roles have been appointed. Those who were successful are all of course delighted. But do you know what really bugs me? 1066 votes, fantastic, 10% of the entire student body! This in itself is not a success. The roles entitled SU president; community officer, sports officer, and education officer are all big shoes to fill. These are the people who decide how our SU is run, what events are put on, hell, even what alcohol our SU bar stocks. Then why such a low voting rate? Young adults are notorious for not voting for anything, with general elections being the big one. For a group of society who are jam packed, full of strong opinions, when it comes to the important stuff, no one turns up. Why is this? If I hear one more person moaning in the refectory about the prices or food selection I may explode. Perhaps if some students stopped

moaning half as much and read their plans for the students union and university and got out of bed and voted, then this gaggle of whiny teenagers wouldn’t be such a problem. Don’t get me wrong I am one such student and moan about the cues for coffee constantly, but then it hit me, why not vote? On the lead up to the elections, yes the posters and constant Facebook reminders of people running for the roles can become mind bogglingly irritating. The walls are plastered with pictures of beaming students who want to sort out the university ‘your way’, but despite the bad use of colour or Microsoft office, we all should really give it a read. The big thing is we young’uns hate having things jammed down our throats at every corner; work, lectures and especially elections, but should this really stop us from voting? Isn’t it about time we all stopped expressing our concerns, stopped wandering around with our disgruntled expressions and did something about it? Nearly half the world is aged under twenty five, believe it or not we could make a difference.

Keeping us safe and moving during race week CHELTENHAM Borough Council, Gloucestershire Police, Gloucestershire County Council and other agencies will be working in partnership again this year to keep the town safe, moving and clean as over an extra 50,000 people per day descend on the town for Race Week. Public Protection and police officers will be out every night during the week to carry out premises and licensed vehicle inspections to ensure they are not breaching conditions. They want to ensure that traffic going to and from the festival is managed as efficiently as possible, and that any travel disruption is kept to a minimum. Traffic orders will be in place on Albert Road, New Barn Lane, Evesham Road, Southam Road, Swindon Lane, Hill Court Road and the Promenade (between High Street and Imperial Circus) this year to help keep the traffic flowing. Councillor Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for development and safety, said: “Our priority is for everyone visiting the town to have a safe and enjoyable time.’’ Cheltenham Inspector Tim Waterhouse said: “Gloucestershire Police is fortunate to have strong, established relationships with partner agencies which will be vital to ensure that policing of race week goes smoothly and visitors to the town have an enjoyable experience.

“Our number one priority is to keep visitors and residents safe during the week and although we are experienced in policing this event we won’t be complacent. We would urge the public to work with us to ensure that everyone enjoys the week’s festivities.” Jim Daniels, parking manager at Gloucestershire County Council said: “Cheltenham sees an influx of visitors during race week and the roads are much busier, so we work with the borough council and the police to keep traffic moving through the town and get visitors to the event with minimum disruption.” Other activities during the week, which the council will be stepping up checks with, are street traders and taxi and private hire drivers. The council’s cleansing team also has the job of cleaning the mess caused by an extra 50,000 plus people in the town per day. There will be additional signage around the town centre to help direct people to taxis, buses and toilet facilities; and additional toilets (portaloos) will also be available. For information on the traffic orders that will be in force around the borough during the festival. See the borough council’s website. For more information about travelling to and from Cheltenham Racecourse, including bus routes, car parks, and car sharing, visit Cheltenham Racecourse’s website.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

BUSINESS Editor’sDESK

t’s that time of year again when we can expect the Emerald Swarm to arrive for Race Week. For me it’s the highlight of the year where our town almost catches alight with excitement and the great and the good from all over the racing World descend for an incredible equine event. The town will be crammed with our Irish guests as they bolster the local economy, making the restaurants bulge and setting the tills ringing in a host of town centre pubs. As they say it’s ‘the craic’. The influx of our Irish friends do in some quarters, make the odd Cheltonians bristle. Some of our misguided residents do have a moan about how busy the town becomes. I’ve even heard some uninformed cretins say that most Cheltenham people aren’t interested in the racing. What a load of rubbish. Some Cheltonians aren’t interested in the racing, but on the whole most think it’s good for the town, even if they aren’t intending to have a punt. Some also say that it’s only Gold Cup Day that attracts the locals. Again, rubbish. You only have go on Ladies Day to see the plethora of well-dressed ladies from Cheltenham up at the racecourse enjoying a great day. It’s a true reflection of what’s great and good about the town. Cheltenham is a small community that’s very good at embracing events. Remember the turn-out for the Olympic Torch? So you see it’s all bah humbug and Race Week does provide another blistering dynamic to the town. All this ‘we’re not interested’ is the minority and certainly not the majority. It’s based on pure ill informed apathy and not helpful for the town. Would it be better to have a town dying on its feet from a lack of increased economical diversity or remove all the festivals and see a small town (which we are) wither on the vine with businesses closing and house prices plummeting? We are lucky to have Race Week and should scoop it up with a sense of pride and support. On a Race Week footnote it’s very good of our dear Borough Council to scrap some of the parking charges in some areas round the town during this period. Be nice if they kept that going for another trial month to see the effects on the town centre shopping and businesses. The local plumbers would love it. Race Week is a very short time to provide this sort of free facility. It might be that they should (after the deluge of emails we’ve had about the ongoing parking swizz) see fit to extend it. Bet they don’t.

Eric Barton, Editor

Got a comment? Please contact us at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Leader of Cheltenham Council officially opens Microsoft Office Exam Centre “People need the right skills for the modern workplace so training is very important. Today I am delighted to have opened the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Exam Centre at Pitman Training Cheltenham. I understand that this is the only MOS Exam Centre in Gloucestershire that is open to the public,” commented Cllr Steve Jordan, Leader of Cheltenham Borough Council. “I am also pleased to have supported the launch of the Pitman Training Microsoft Office (MOS) Certification Diploma which will give employers a fast-track to get their staff qualified as

Microsoft Office Specialist Masters. Kevin Daws Training Manager commented: “We believe that our New Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification Diploma will provide businesses with the high quality Microsoft skills that they and their staff require.” “What’s more their staff can become Microsoft Office Specialist Masters in just six weeks.” For further information please visit http://training4yourcareer.co.uk/ news/official-launch-of-the-microsoft-office-mos-certificationdiploma/

RE RESOURCE GROUP LAST year, Richard East and James Gibb sought pastures new when they broke into the technical marketplace launching ‘Ambrose Recruitment’ with specialist recruiter Robert Dove. Ambrose is designed to provide permanent, contract and interim recruitment solutions to engineering and manufacturing companies. The job of sourcing skilled personnel for a wide range of businesses nationally was a brave move considering the ongoing lack of engineers available in the UK. “Meeting Robert was the difference between us launching Ambrose or not,” said Richard. “Robert has a reputation in the industry for his longevity, professionalism and desire to succeed, however what sets him apart is his

ability to understand what it is that attracts talented professionals to roles that comprise of executive positions to specialist industries.” The gamble has clearly paid off and since launching in autumn last year, the company has grown to such a degree that thre extra staff have been taken on this month to meet demand. “We are now operating on a nationwide basis sourcing graduates through to director level positions across a wide range of specialist industries including; aerospace, defence, automotive, fmcg, automation, process, general manufacturing, warehouse and distribution” says Robert Dove. “Our fast growth sends out a positive sign that the economy has finally recovered

after a tough six years and whilst the skills shortage is a major challenge to many employers, our combined wealth of experience combined with our investment in IT and marketing, ensures we can access pools of talented professionals to fill these vacancies.” It is the investment as well as the evolution of change largely driven through advances in technology that is having a positive effect on engineering and manufacturing in the UK. This in turn has presented Ambrose with an excellent opportunity to meet the challenges of the industry by working in partnership with some of the countries’ leading employers to fulfil their specialist recruitment needs.

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

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

BUSINESS Don’t put off making or updating your Will LAW Society research in October 2014 found that 73% of 16-54-year-olds don’t have a Will whilst 64% of people over the age of 55 have made their final wishes clear in a Will. The research also found that men are more likely to have a Will and keep it updated than women. Have you got a Will? Does it reflect your current wishes? In April and with thanks to many local solicitors firms, who will be giving their time for free, Cobalt is running their annual Make a Will Month. In return for a suggested, minimum donation of £95 for a single Will, £140 for a couple’s mirror Will or £40 for a Codicil, you can gain peace of mind by putting your affairs in order. Based in Cheltenham, Cobalt scans over 24,000 patients each year from across the Three Counties and beyond. They raise money to improve medical imaging services,

primarily cancer and dementia imaging services, and they can make cutting edge diagnostic imaging equipment accessible to people when they need it most. Zena Giles Legacy Officer at the charity says: “Chances are that making a Will, or updating the one you already have, is still on your ‘to do’ list. Make a Will Month is a great opportunity to tick this off. We have the support of several respected solicitors across the area so you will be able to make an appointment close to home and support a local charity, Cobalt. One of Cobalt’s four partner solicitors in Cheltenham is Willans LLP. Simon Cook, partner in the firm strongly recommends people prepare a Will with a solicitor so that in the event of their death, they provide for the loved ones that they want and need to support. He says “Although there is ab-

Renewable Design Company launch Heat Pump Incentive CHELTENHAM based The Renewable Design Company Ltd is the first renewable energy company in the UK to offer free heat pump installations for commercial premises. RDC has secured investment funding of £1.5 million for the first phase of installations, which are well under way. Currently working nationwide on ten retirement home projects, RDC Ltd can install a heat pump system in each block of apartments at no cost to the developer. RDC install completely free and once installed will maintain the system for free for the following 20 years, giving any landlords and property owners peace of mind. RDC can recoup their investment through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) payments. RDC Managing Director Julian Sowerbutts commented: “While the market has been busy with biomass installations, recent drops in tariffs have shown that it has become a less financially attractive proposition. Stricter regulations for installations, constant delivery issues and high maintenance requirements have also reduced the number of new projects, with all eyes now turning to heat pumps, where tariffs remain at their peak and the

£5 TICKET GIVES YOU 1 IN 3,500 CHANCE OF WINNING A CAR WORTH £8345 (Compare: National Lottery Odds of winning £1,500 are 1 in 55,000)

2nd Prize – Mountain Bike (worth £250) 3rd Prize – £100 T.K. Maxx Voucher

Monies raised is going to Rotary Supported Charities Full Terms, Conditions and WHERE TO BUY TICKETS ON

solutely no requirement to do so, some clients choose to leave a gift to charity in their Will. This can not only give you profound satisfaction in knowing that your support will live on into the future, but it can also help reduce inheritance tax on your estate.” More information on 01242 535922 or email zenawillhelp@cobalthealth.co.uk

www.winatowncarforafive.com LAUNCH DATE 4TH APRIL 2015 AT THE REGENT ARCADE CHELTENHAM DRAW WILL TAKE PLACE BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 25TH MAY 2015 AT THE REGENT ARCADE AT 3PM Rotary Club of Cheltenham Sunrise Charity Number 1051183

Fantastic panoramic views over Painswick Valley Freshly cooked food and local real ales make a visit to The Edgemoor Inn a real treat...

returns speak for themselves. Now is the time for commercial property owners to take advantage of our Free Heat Pump Incentive. Customers can use funds allocated for heating elsewhere whilst RDC cover the cost of a renewable energy system, which will provide heating and hot water at reduced cost to the end user.” www.therenewabledesigncompany.com

To advertise in the Cheltenham Standard call our sales team on

01242 257 019

The Edgemoor oﬀers an impressive selection of home-cooked dishes, including many vegetarian and fresh ﬁsh options, along with homemade favourites and grills.

The lounge bar, has a light and modern feel which extends to the whole property. Outside on the patio area is a perfect place for a snack or quiet drink whilst admiring the panoramic views over Painswick and its glorious countryside. The Edgemoor Inn oﬀers the very best in traditional Cotswold pub and restaurant dining, warm welcome in delightful surroundings with wellpresented home-cooked food. This is a combination that’s hard to beat.

The Edgemoor Inn Edge, near Stroud, Gloucester GL6 6ND

Call us today

01452 813 576

www.edgemoor-inn.com

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

THE NEW SPRING COLLECTION 2015 NOW AVAILABLE IN STORE & ONLINE OSKA 6 – 7 Montpellier Walk Cheltenham GL50 1SD T 012 4251 4613 Mon to Sat 10 am – 6 pm cheltenham.oska.com

HATS OFF TO THE FASHIONABLE FILLIES THE outfits can range from fabulous to fanciful and they aren't always lady-like but the ‘look’ on Cheltenham's Ladies Day is nothing short of fantastic. Last year the sun made an appearance so there was no shortage of colourful, glamorous and risqué outfits on show. Big hair and bronzer were the order of the day last year as race goers upped the ante in the style stakes. After spending hours picking their outfits with elaborate hats decorated with feather extravaganzas, the female

OSKA launches new collection TO coincide with Cheltenham race week and the launch of their S/S15 Collection, OSKA Cheltenham will be offering a personal styling service in store throughout race week. Enjoy a glass of Prosecco and nibbles whilst the OSKA team help you create your very own OSKA look. Visit our website cheltenham.oska.com or you can find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

race-goers this year at Cheltenham will be keen to show off their fashion choices at the racecourse. Next week we will see the finest hats and outfits on parade mostly for Ladies Day on Wednesday. The well-dressed Festival spectators will no doubt be taking to Twitter to share ‘chelfies’ of their day out at the races. It’s a great way to show off the money spent and the time they’ve taken to get their outfit ‘just right’. The photographs, which are accompanied with the hashtag #chelfie - a combination of the words Cheltenham and selfie, the self-portrait internet craze will this year- show almost certainly show the women posing with their glamorous headwear and dresses. From the posh traditional race-goers decked out in tweed, to reality TV stars pouting in over-sized sunglasses, racegoers of all types will be proudly sharing their photographs of themselves online. And it is not just the women who are usually keen to show off that they have spent their day at the races, with plenty of male punters also taking snaps of themselves watching from the stands and dare we suggest quaffing back some of the black stuff or the odd bottle of fizz or three. It’s all about the excitement of the day

and the week as the whole, as our town gets geared up for the biggest event of the year. The pubs and clubs will be packed and getting a seat in a decent restaurant will prove difficult. But it is this very situation that’s special and makes the

town really buzz for one week of the year. The pubs are crammed and Montpellier really does swing on its hinges for four days as the Emerald Swarm descend on the area to enjoy all that we have to offer. Numbers of folks travelling from Ireland to the races this year is expected to be double. Most of the people from Ireland come for all four days and tend to stay in Cheltenham in order to be close to the racecourse and spend their money here. Let’s just hope the sun shines all week, but particularly on Ladies Day.

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

CULTURE LA TRAVIATA LAUNCHES 2015 ENO SCREEN SEASON Cineworld Wednesday 11 March Live from English National Opera’s London Coliseum in stunning multi camera HD

ANNE BOLEYN HITS THE STAGE ANYONE who has been enjoying Hilary Mantel's magnificent Wolf Hall on the BBC will be pleased to know that an equally brilliant interpretation of the story of Anne Boleyn is coming to The Playhouse Theatre in Cheltenham in March. Howard Brenton's play “Anne Boleyn” takes a very different view of this enigmatic queen however, and Thomas Cromwell, the charismatic hero (or anti-hero!) of Wolf Hall, is seen as a politician at once both ruthless and dangerous. Our fascination with the Tudors, with their dynastic intrigues, volatile relationships and sometimes short and brutal lives contrasts with a

prevailing cynicism about the selfserving and image obsessed politicians of our present times, though even with a general election in the offing it is probably still preferable live to in the 21st and not the 16th century! Anne Boleyn runs at The Playhouse Theatre in Cheltenham from the 17th to the 21st of March and will be performed by the acclaimed Gloucestershire based theatre group, The Rococo Players. Tickets are priced £10 (£8 concession) and can be obtained from the Playhouse box office by calling 01242 522852. Performances start at 7.45pm

FOLLOWING last year’s hugely successful live screenings of English National Opera’s award-winning Peter Grimes and Terry Gilliam’s production of Berlioz’s Benvenuto Cellini, ENO Screen is set to broadcast La traviata live from the Coliseum to over 400 cinemas across the UK and Ireland on Wednesday 11 March. ENO presents the first revival of Peter Konwitschny’s celebrated production of one the most popular operas of all time. La traviata tells the devastating tale of Violetta, the beautiful Parisian courtesan who shatters convention and sacrifices everything for love. Verdi’s masterpiece combines compelling characters with hugely moving and instantly recognisable melodies making it one of the most emotionally engaging and popular operas of all time.

Making her UK debut in the role of Violetta, which launched the European career of soprano Corinne Winters in 2013, is young superstar soprano Elizabeth Zharoff. La traviata is conducted by Roland Böer. Music Director of the Cantiere Internazionale d’Arte in Montepulciano, German opera director Peter Konwitschny has built a reputation over four decades for his insightful Wagner, Strauss and Verdi interpretations. The original performances of this production marked Konwitschny’s UK directorial debut. This Olivier Award Nominated production cuts to the very heart of the opera’s themes of passion, love and tragic death with a modern, uncluttered staging and a running time of less than 2 hours. Further information www.eno.org/enoscreen

THE SWEET SMELL OF DECAY by Paul Lawrence Book REVIEW By EVE SEYMOUR A CRIME most foul provides the big hook in the first of the Harry Lytle series, a historical caper set in Restoration, London. Anne Giles, Lytle’s young cousin, is murdered. Revenge appears to lie behind the motivation and, if I tell you delicately that the phrase ‘an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth’ is mentioned when describing the injuries to the victim, you’ll get the picture. Less bright and open-minded folk than Harry Lytle suggest ‘Popery’

and ‘witchery’ lie at the root of the killing, but Harry, a man ahead of his time, is having none of it. Aided and abetted by doughty butcher, David Dowling, the unlikely duo follows a trail populated by rich and vivid characters, often with personal hygiene problems. The novel provides a wealth of historical detail. Roads were nonexistent and more akin to tributaries of filth. You can pretty much smell the stinking air as Lytle and Dowling squelch their way through the investigation. There are lots of fascinating little gems of information. For example, dog excrement, a

subject close to the Standard editor’s heart, was a vital ingredient in the tanning process. Glad it came in handy for something. Political intrigue proliferates. One word of dissent in the wrong ear guarantees a fast trip to the Tower. Fair trials rarely take place and I’m not overstating the case by saying that graphic description of Newgate gaol had me positively hyperventilating and reaching for the nearest open window. Lawrence doesn’t hold back when describing the dubious morality of the time. Appalling cruelty is meted out to those suspected of witchcraft. The punishment by hanging,

drawing and quartering is made even more despicable in this story (if that’s possible) because the victim is a man falsely accused. I laughed aloud at Lytle’s dry, irreverent wit, and his frustration with those displaying more cunning than himself; promissory notes and loot the only way, it seems, to extract hard information. From an assured and ‘cut above’ writer, ‘The Sweet Smell of Decay’ comes very highly recommended. The Sweet Smell of Decay by Paul Lawrence is published by Allison and Busby.

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

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

QUIRKY NEWS Bad hair day US police have arrested a man who allegedly smashed up a hairdressing salon because he was unhappy with his haircut. Officers say Alan Becker, 47, "did not like" the way his hair had been cut at the Loft Salon and Spa in Stamford, Connecticut. And he lost his temper when he was asked to pay $50 (£32) for the stylist's handiwork, reports the local WFSB TV station. Police said Becker started throwing items, including a wreath and candle around the salon after learning the price of the haircut. He also "kicked a hole in the wall, and went off on a swearing tirade to employees and customers", according to officers. Police said Becker left the salon, but returned a short time later, "demanding the stylist fix his hair." The stylist refused and instead called police who later arrested Becker at his home. He was charged with breach of the peace and criminal mischief.

BEATS A PLASTIC DUCK AN Australian zoologist has been showing off his relationship with his animals by sharing his bath with a crocodile. Chris Humfrey says four-yearold saltwater croc Snappy Tom

SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT...

A selection of the strangest stories from around the globe

loves nothing better than a nice warm soak. And the pair are often joined by Casper, a huge black-headed python, making it three in a bath. Mr Humfrey, who cares for over 2,000 other animals at his Wild Action Zoo in Macedon, Australia, says he has no fears about getting up close and personal with his animals. “Just call me Dr Dolittle. Whether it's the kangaroo knocking over my beer or the

crocodile crawling between my feet, I see all of the animals as members of my family,” he said. “It's about showing empathy and compassion - you're shown respect and trust in return.”

focus on the past because it makes me feel upset. Growing up I felt left alone as no one wanted to be friends with me.” Most of his surgery was done in the UK but he travelled to Colombia for his most recent procedures.

The former flight attendant says he is fully aware why people can see a resemblance between him and Barbie’s boyfriend. “I celebrate life every day and the Human Ken Doll nickname came about in a very light-hearted way due to my plastic look, my glamorous clothing and jetsetting life style,” he said. “I have chosen to never be offended by it and I have a lot of fun with it. I just love life and I am very grateful to love myself today.”

Human Ken doll A PLASTIC surgery addict dubbed the ‘Human Ken Doll’ says being bullied as a child prompted him to spend £125,000 sculpting his face and body. Rodrigo Alves, 31, from London, has undergone 30 operations including nose jobs, six pack implants and fillers. He says other boys at school would call him ‘potato nose’ and ‘jelly body’ and tease his big nose and large breasts. Mr Alves said: “I do not like to

Groom jilted for guest at Indian Wedding FIGHTING broke out at an Indian wedding after the bride ditched the groom and married one of the guests instead. Jugal Kishore, 25, of Moradabad, suffered an epileptic fit as he was about to garland his would-be wife at the ceremony in Rampur. His bride, Indira, 23, from Rampur, angry that her family had been kept in the dark about Kishore's medical condition, promptly changed her mind. She announced that she would happily marry a guest at the wedding, Harpal Singh, her sister's brother-in-law, instead, reports the Times of India. Singh, caught unawares and dressed in jeans and a leather jacket, hesitated for a moment before agreeing to the proposal and the ceremony went off without a hitch. Kishore, meanwhile, who had been rushed to a doctor, returned to the venue after regaining consciousness to see that his wifeto-be was now someone else's.

VENTING SPLEEN… Local man about town, Tom Thurlow lets loose

Y COVERAGE of the Warden Hill ‘carnival’ last weekend caused quite the stir. I’ve now come to realise that I unfortunately managed to upset the entire roster of the Warden Hill ladies after berating their publicly funded tea party. Hate mail arrived from three disgruntled readers. Although this article came over as a personal attack the intention was only to highlight what I thought was a waste of taxpayers’ money. Their positions (in my humble opinion) on our payroll should definitely be put into question. I certainly won’t apologise for doing my job and challenging how ineffective they are and the validity of the pay you and I give them.

Don’t get me wrong, community-led events are good and perhaps this one did hit the mark? But it’s only a storm in a Warden Hill teacup after all. Moving on to another local hot topic that needs my scrutiny is the continuing rise of beggars on Cheltenham’s High Street. New measures to tackle the problem continue to be hurried in with much fanfare from the police; but here we find ourselves still plagued with the problem of vagabonds. They’re the nuisances that won’t go away for exasperated shop owners and they continue to be the only members in society who find it acceptable to intrude our day with demands for OUR cash.

Believe it or not I do sympathise with their plight and I don’t doubt hardship has fallen upon them. Misfortune can fall upon any of us; sometimes unexpectedly, but it does not give us the God-given right to harass others for money. We live in a country where help is always at hand from the state. If you are homeless, jobless, hungry and you need help, you can get it. It’s this message the police are spreading in their latest scheme to advise beggars in the form of ‘yellow cards’ where they can

seek this support. However, many beggars will continue to ignore the heed from our brave law enforcers and will instead pester us for our cash. On the streets they can maintain a drug addiction or a drinking problem. They’re independent and free from help and have cold hard cash to spend as they like. It’s exactly this reason why we shouldn’t give them anything. It may be hard for many of you to fight that human instinct to get out your purse and

help – but don’t. Buy them a sandwich, a hot drink or a packet of crisps, but by offering cash you’re just exacerbating the problem. It’s about time our police get on top of the repeat offenders and get them off our streets for good. Offer them the help that’s available to them through the council and warn them to stop targeting unsuspecting members of the public. If they continue to be ignorant and ignore the advice handed to them, perhaps they don’t actually need our help? Perhaps they know exactly what they’re doing by staying on our streets and they’re spending money handed to them on illegal substances? Just because they’re homeless does not make them above the law; stop pandering to them and start enforcing the law on them or give them the help they need.

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

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

CoffeeBreak Your Weekly HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 20 – April 18): Letting other people decide your heart for you is a recipe for regret. If he makes you feel alive and special then that's all your heart needs to know.

TFIELD A E R G FARM SHOP

TAURUS (April 19 – May 19): It's time to break the chain that links you to the past. You know what you have to do. All you have to do is do it.

UP HATHERLEY

We offer a large selection of quality produce and many other interesting items to tempt you with.

CORNISH

99p

ENGLIS R APPLE H S L OFFE

99p/kg

CANCER (June 21 – July 21): Look for an extraordinary money opportunity to come spinning your way. It's out of this world and unlike anything you were expecting.

CAULIFLO W

SPECIA

GEMINI (May 20 – June 20): Right now you're protected by a sponsor or mentor. Nobody can do anything against you. Yet this won't stop certain people from trying to coerce you into saying or doing something questionable.

ERS

LEO (July 22 – Aug 21): The Sun always rises on a new day and with Jupiter

HOME MADE COMFORTING CAKES

Word Ladder

Award Winning Fresh Hobbs House Bread | Delivered Daily

Mother’s Day Gifts and Fruit Baskets to order Open: Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-2 Up Hatherley Way, Cheltenham GL51 3QX

Convert the word at the top of the ladder into the word at the bottom of it, using only the four steps in between. Every word must be a valid four letter word.

01242 690058

StandOKU!

Difficulty rating: Moderate

6 7

7 4 6

4 6

3 7 9 5 1 2 6 4 1 6 9 8 4 6 9 8 9 2 1 5 2 3

TARGET

L A I S O H D G T

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.

21 22 Last week’s solutions (26th February 2015): Across: 7 Alice; 8 Asocial; 9 Ethanol; 10 Endow; 12 Dispossess; 15 Lip service; 18 Sacra; 19 Nursing; 21 Burgers; 22 Ratio. Down: 1 Waterfalls; 2 Might; 3 Mean; 4 Wallop; 5 Forensic; 6 Kindred; 11 Washington; 13 Iterates; 14 Spectre; 16 Vanish; 17 Piste; 20 Rare.

forming an amazing trine to Uranus today – it will! VIRGO (Aug 22 – Sept 21): This isn't the time to stop a gift horse in its tracks and examine its dental work. Hop aboard because good fortune is about to go from a trot to a full gallop.

relationship, career, or maybe just your life.

LIBRA (Sept 22 – Oct 22): Keep the faith. You're in the process of clearing away the deadwood and setting up the kind of life you always wanted. SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21): Look for a surprise breakthrough or coup. It's the very thing that you need to put you over the top. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 20): Think back to where you were 12 years ago and you'll see that you're being given a second chance to get things right in your

CAPRICORN (Dec 21 – Jan 18): Dramatic developments will soon transform your finances. This will bring that feeling of security that has evaded you for far too long. AQUARIUS (Jan 19 – Feb 17): Today's spectacular Uranus/Jupiter trine shows someone coming through for you in a way you didn't expect. This renews your faith in people. PISCES (Feb 18 – March 19): Make yourself finish what you started. Fulfillment may be a taste that's unfamiliar, but it's still a taste worth cultivating.

JUMP

BUSY

RACE

WEEK

CRYPTIC Crossword ACROSS

DOWN

1. A man’s viewing-aid (4) 8. Getting thrown out for taking drinks here (5,5) 9. Somehow estrange the military man (8) 10. Care about the competition (4) 12. It's not important to have a three-way translation (6) 14. Transfer the cornerman (6) 15. Disfigure 500 from east badly (6) 17. Like groups of valuable things (6) 18. Eye complaint among the worst yet (4) 19. A rider who ran homes oddly (8) 21. Consider it the outcome of tact (10) 22. Some fantastic wine (4)

2. Affectionate uttering of a tender name, perhaps (10) 3. Feeling comfortable with firearms around (4) 4. A drama involves the fleet (6) 5. He cuts up the slides (6) 6. Loudly criticises the accommodation of soldiers (8) 7. Lies about the eyot (4) 11. Cannot stir, maybe due to inhibition (10) 13. Noel is caught up in criminal activities with the force (8) 16. A composer from Harlem? (6) 17. Quick to react when a road is built next to it (6) 18. Dies sadly for the team (4) 20. Dean's going out with her (4)

Are you looking for a new career challenge?

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

RECRUITMENT

2015 set to be a bumper year for South West recruitment We are recruiting for Mortgage Collections Advisors to join our team at our office in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham. Salary up to £18,920 plus benefits

• 40% of HR directors in South West are planning to increase hiring of permanent, professional employees in the first six months of 2015.

Hiring Index1 (‘the Index’) from Robert Half UK. Two points higher than six months prior, the research highlights that the labour market has firmly shifted into a postrecessionary cycle, where professionals with marketable skills hold the advantage as candidate demand outweighs supply. The Index reveals that just 3% of HR executives believe their company will reduce their overall headcount over the period. Less than one in 10 (8%) believe their company will freeze hiring in the next six months, by not filling vacant positions or creating new ones.

• 90% of HR executives say it is a challenging environment to find skilled professional-level employees and 75% are concerned about losing top performers. 26 February, 2015, Four in ten (40%) HR directors in the South West of the UK plan to expand hiring, with their companies set to add new positions, in the first six months of 2015 according to the latest Professional

At Chelsea Building Society, we really do value our people and believe you'll enjoy working here. Your ideas will be listened to and you'll be encouraged to take the initiative. It's the way we do business. At Chelsea it's a team effort and success is always recognised and rewarded.

http://www.workatchelsea.co.uk/ Job reference 2211BR

Chelsea Building Society and the Chelsea are trading names of Yorkshire Building Society. Yorkshire Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association and is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. thechelsea.co.uk

s m

th ro o

ns an d

Ki tc

lec

Previous financial service, collections or mortgage experience would be beneficial, however if you possess good communication skills and a positive attitude, and feel that you could provide an exceptional service to our members we can provide training for the rest, which will include a seven week induction program. If this sounds like you, to find out more and to apply, please follow the link below:

With a talent for explaining complex information as clearly and concisely as possible, you will have a confident approach to questioning and will use all of these skills to find the best solution for our customers, ensuring that they are treated fairly.

40% OFF

We are looking for an empathetic and understanding individual with exceptional listening skills to engage with customers who may experience difficulties now or in the future in making their mortgage repayments.

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

PROPERTY&HOME

A kitchen can add up to 7% to the value of your home KITCHENS are for eating, drinking and socialising, but the heart of the home also speaks volumes about our taste - as a glimpse into the kitchens of Prime Minister's wife Samantha Cameron and celebrity chef Nigella Lawson recently revealed. While there's a homely, eclectic feel to the Downing Street space, with open shelves cluttered with pots and pans and a blackboard on the wall for family messages, Lawson's made a full-on feminine statement with fuchsia-pink cabinets and drawers, in her new London home.

It just goes to show, the recipe for a perfect kitchen is highly personal. There's no one right ‘look’ - what matters is that this space suits you and the way you want to live. “There are several factors to take into account when choosing a kitchen,” advises Craig Burgess-Allen, UK manager for Rational kitchens. “Consider the style of the rest of your home, especially if you have an open-plan layout with spaces flowing into one another, as you want to avoid choosing a style which jars with the rest of your design scheme. “Equally, don't feel obliged

in a period home to install a traditional kitchen. The priority is for a functional space, which is easy to work in and is visually appealing, and modern ranges can be hugely successful as a stunning, calm pared-back contrast, when the rest of the house is highly embellished with flourishes and detail.” A kitchen can make or break a property deal, and it's estimated that it can add up to 7% to the value of a home. “Bear in mind that adventurous colour

choices may look great in the showroom but can be hard to live with, and aren't generally advisable if you're considering selling a property,” Burgess-Allen points out. “If you feel colour-starved, play with colour in worktops and tiling. “Always consider the natural light available, and opt for light reflecting surfaces if it's limited. On a practical note, avoid glossy kitchen doors if you're house proud and have small children, as they'll show up every smudgy fingerprint!”

THE BEST FLOOR SHOW IN TOWN

CARPETS WOOD

AMTICO

NATURALS

Roger Oates • Crucial Trading • Harvey Maria

33 Prestbury Road | Cheltenham | Gloucestershire | GL52 2PP

01242 375026

CHELTENHAM

£525,000

CHELTENHAM

£565,000

WELLINGTON SQUARE

£325,000

APPERLEY

£375,000

A marvellous five bedroom semi-detached family house with character features and a very large rear garden. Its well proportioned accommodation on the ground floor comprises in brief an entrance hall, a dining room with a log burner set into the fireplace, a living room overlooking the rear garden, a modern fitted kitchen opening into the breakfast room, a utility room and a shower room with a sauna. The first floor offers four bedrooms and a family bathroom. Above the roof conversion provides a large fifth bedroom. Further benefits include gas fired central heating, double glazing, off road parking for numerous vehicles and wonderfully landscaped gardens with lawns, patio areas and a vegetable patch. EPC: D

A handsome and beautifully presented Grade II listed first floor period apartment overlooking the marvellous Wellington Square gardens and within a short walk of Pittville Park and the town centre. Offered in very good decorative order, with a wealth of fine character features, its surprisingly spacious accommodation comprises in brief a generous entrance hall, a large living room, an impressive fitted kitchen/dining room, two splendid double bedrooms with an en-suite shower room to the master and a family bathroom. Benefits include gas fired central heating, useful storage cupboards, lovely fireplaces and ornate mouldings. EPC: E

An imposing and much improved four bedroom period semi-detached family home with a wealth of fine character features and a large rear garden. Within walking distance of Pittville Park its stylish and generously proportioned accommodation comprises an impressive entrance hall, living room with a log burner set into a fireplace, a sitting room, a wonderful fitted kitchen/breakfast room, a dining room that opens into the surprisingly private rear garden, a downstairs cloakroom, three first floor double bedrooms with the master having a dressing room and an en-suite shower room, a family bathroom, laundry room and a very large second floor double bedroom with a sitting area and an en-suite shower room. Useful cellar, gas central heating, double glazing, parking for several vehicles, a small garage and outstanding gardens. EPC: D

A four bedroom detached cottage with character features, including beams to ceilings, set within landscaped gardens with countryside views. Its well presented accommodation is offered in good decorative order and comprises in brief a canopy porch, a generous entrance hall, a large living room with a feature fireplace with a log burner in situ, a dining room, a breakfast room, modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, four bedrooms, a bathroom and a shower room. Further benefits include double glazing, off road parking and a garage with a workshop. EPC: E

CHELTENHAM

£572,500

A substantial period town house with a garden flat and off road parking within easy walking distance of Pittville Park and the town centre. This stylish property offers a wealth of character features including fireplaces, ceiling mouldings and joinery and the principal house comprises an entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, a wonderful fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility, four bedrooms, an en-suite shower room to the master bedroom and a luxurious family bathroom. In addition the garden flat offers a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, living room, bathroom and a double bedroom with an en-suite shower room. Further benefits of this fine dwelling include gas fired central heating and easy to maintain gardens.

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

We will not: raise false expectations behave unethically or encourage others to do so

ELDERSFIELD

£600,000

Occupying a truly delightful rural location is this spacious four bedroom barn conversion with a southerly facing aspect overlooking its attractive landscaped gardens and paddock, in all about 2.1 acres. Its beautifully presented accommodation oﬀers a wealth of character features and comprises an entrance hall, a spacious living room with wood burner, a ﬁtted kitchen/breakfast room, a utility/boot room, four bedrooms with the master sharing a Jack and Jill bathroom with bedroom two, an en-suite shower room and a family bathroom. Private driveway with access via an electronically operated gate, parking for several vehicles, a summerhouse, a low maintenance mature courtyard garden leading to a lawned garden and a fenced enclosure with a two bay open equestrian shelter with power, water and lighting leading to the paddock. EPC: D

Nigel Errington-Smith

residential sales specialists for Cheltenham and the surrounding villages

01242 898746 www.brixandmortimer.com

Leckhampton

Guide Price ÂŁ425,000

Leckhampton

Asking Price ÂŁ750,000

A rarely available 3 bedroom detached house of superior presentation situated within a charming cul-de-sac location in Leckhampton. Enjoyed by the current owners for more than 23 years this extended and upgraded property has potential to add an additional bedroom and benefits from a 20ft x 15ft lounge, dining room, re-fitted Kitchen/Breakfast room, re-fitted double glazing, cloakroom and family bathroom with underfloor heating. The garage is currently used as a utility/ occasional room. Rear garden mostly laid to lawn with patio area and side access. Drive way with off road parking for one vehicle. EPC to follow. Film Tour of property available on our website, rightmove, youtube, pintrest, facebook and twitter.

An extended and upgraded family house situated in the heart of Leckhampton with gardens, garage and parking. This attractive detached property boasts 4 bedrooms, a 22 ft x 11 ft lounge/dining room, modernised kitchen/breakfast room with separate utility, a conservatory and detached office/games room. Key features include a 20ft x 11ft master bedroom with en-suite, gas central heating, double glazing, vendor owned solar heating panels, laminate and wood flooring in the principle reception rooms, integral garage and driveway with parking for 5 vehicles. EPC C. Film Tour of property available on our website, rightmove, youtube, pintrest, facebook and twitter.

www.brixandmortimer info@brixandmortimer.com

46 Suffolk Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 2AQ Telephone: 01242 222972

www.nresidential.co.uk

£900 pcm LE T

LE T

£1350 pcm

£1750 pcm

LE T

QUALITY PROPERTY SPECIALISTS

Due to unprecedented demand we have available tenants waiting to rent quality properties in the Cheltenham and surrounding areas. Please call for a free no obligation property appraisal.

• Friendly, Professional Staff with Over 20 Years’ Experience

• Full Management, Rent Collection or Let Only

£1500 pcm T

• Extensive Local Knowledge

£1700 pcm

• Highly Competitive Fees • National Advertising

£1850 pcm

£1250 pcm

£2750 pcm

LE T

£2250 pcm

• Large Database of Prospective Tenants

£1250 pcm

Tel: 01242 222972 Email: info@nresidential.co.uk

Midnight Court, Cheltenham GL52 5FE

Hanover Street, Cheltenham GL52 4HE

£400,000

£160,000

SSTC in just over 1 month. Had been on with a different “local” agent previously.

SSTC in just over 2 weeks. Had been on the market with a different “big” agent for 3 months prior.

Bethesda Street Cheltenham GL50 2AY £1750 pcm Let agreed on the first viewing.

River Leys, Cheltenham GL51 9SA £90,000 SSTC on the first viewing.

Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7NG £750 pcm

Bath Street, Cheltenham GL50 1YA £650 pcm

Let agreed in 11 days. Another “big agent” had this on the market for over 3 weeks before and couldn’t find a tenant.

Let agreed on the first viewing.

SALES & LETTINGS AGENT Tel: 01242 250846 Email: sales@mackresidential.com lettings@mackresidential.com

LANDLORDS It’s our 10th Birthday And to celebrate we are offering to manage

10 properties for £10pcm CALL US TO ARRANGE A FREE VALUATION Terms and conditions apply

We provide a tailored service to include: • Valuations with full market appraisal • Full internet listing on Rightmove, Zoopla & other websites • High quality digital details with photographs • Board

• Accompanied viewings with prompt feedback • Expert advice on getting the best out of your property • Personal convenyance service through the whole sales process to completion • Fully managed onward service

13 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HG

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

TELEVISION Your one-stop guide to the best terrestrial tv over the weekend

3%%+ &%%,).' 4(% 2%30/.3)6% 8#

1FSTPOBM $POUSBDU 1VSDIBTF 3FQSFTFOUBUJWF &YBNQMF 9$ % 4& XJUI Ä¬ BMMPZ XIFFMT .POUIMZ QBZNFOUT

5IF 9$ IBT CFFO DBSFGVMMZ EFTJHOFE UP PGGFS NBYJNVN SFTQPOTJWFOFTT PO BOZ SPBE

$VTUPNFS EFQPTJU

$03/&3 53"$5*0/ $0/530-

0O UIF SPBE QSJDF

)*() 1&3'03."/$& 406/% 108&3 01&3"5&% 5"*-("5& "--0: 8)&&-4 $*5: 4"'&5: #-6&5005) %"# 3"%*0 "WBJMBCMF XJUI ZFBST DPNQMFNFOUBSZ TFSWJDJOH XIFO QVSDIBTFE PO 7PMWP "EWBOUBHF 1FSTPOBM $POUSBDU 1VSDIBTF

#00, " 5&45 %3*7& 50%": "5 +0)/40/4 0' (-06$&45&3

+PIOTPOT PG (MPVDFTUFS

c c

'JOBODF EFQPTJU DPOUSJCVUJPO 3FQSFTFOUBUJWF "13

c "13 c

%FBMFS $POUSJCVUJPO

3FWJTFE PO UIF SPBE QSJDF

5PUBM BNPVOU PG DSFEJU

*OUFSFTU DIBSHFT

5PUBM BNPVOU QBZBCMF

0QUJPOBM GJOBM QBZNFOU

%VSBUJPO PG BHSFFNFOU NPOUIT

'JYFE SBUF PG JOUFSFTU Q B

.JMFBHF QFS BOOVN

&YDFTT NJMFBHF DIBSHF

Q QFS NJMF

+PIOTPOT PG (MPVDFTUFS (- &1 XXX WPMWPDBSTHMPVDFTUFS DP VL

0GGJDJBM GVFM DPOTVNQUJPO GPS UIF 7PMWP 9$ % 4& NBOVBM JO .1( M LN 6SCBO &YUSB 6SCBO $PNCJOFE $0Ä¶ &NJTTJPOT H LN .1( GJHVSFT BSF PCUBJOFE GSPN MBCPSBUPSZ UFTUJOH JOUFOEFE GPS DPNQBSJTPOT CFUXFFO WFIJDMFT BOE NBZ OPU SFGMFDU SFBM ESJWJOH SFTVMUT 'JOBODF TVCKFDU UP TUBUVT 3FUBJM TBMFT POMZ 4VCKFDU UP BWBJMBCJMJUZ BU QBSUJDJQBUJOH EFBMFST POMZ PO WFIJDMFT SFHJTUFSFE CZ TU .BSDI "U UIF FOE PG UIF BHSFFNFOU UIFSF BSF PQUJPOT J 3FOFX

1BSU FYDIBOHF UIF WFIJDMF JJ 3FUBJO 1BZ UIF 0QUJPOBM 'JOBM 1BZNFOU UP PXO UIF WFIJDMF PS JJJ 3FUVSO UIF WFIJDMF 'VSUIFS DIBSHFT NBZ CF NBEF TVCKFDU UP UIF DPOEJUJPO PS NJMFBHF PG UIF WFIJDMF 5FSNT BOE DPOEJUJPOT BQQMZ "QQMJDBOUT NVTU CF PS PWFS (VBSBOUFF *OEFNOJUZ NBZ CF SFRVJSFE 7PMWP $BS $SFEJU 3) 43 :PV XJMM OPU PXO UIF WFIJDMF VOUJM BMM QBZNFOUT BSF NBEF +PIOTPOT $BST -UE USBEJOH BT +PIOTPOT PG (MPVDFTUFS BSF B DSFEJU CSPLFS OPU B MFOEFS DBO JOUSPEVDF ZPV UP B MJNJUFE OVNCFS PG DBSFGVMMZ TFMFDUFE GJOBODF QSPWJEFST BOE NBZ SFDFJWF B DPNNJTTJPO GSPN UIFN GPS UIF JOUSPEVDUJPO 5IF TFSWJDF PGGFS JT POMZ BQQMJDBCMF XIFO QVSDIBTJOH PO 7PMWP "EWBOUBHF 1FSTPOBM $POUSBDU 1VSDIBTF PO WFIJDMFT PSEFSFE CFUXFFO TU +BOVBSZ BOE TU .BSDI 4FSWJDFT NVTU CF DBSSJFE PVU BU B 7PMWP "VUIPSJTFE 3FQBJSFS 3FUBJM PGGFS POMZ &YDMVEFT GMFFU PQFSBUPST BOE CVTJOFTT VTFST 4FF WPMWPDBST DP VL GPS GVMM UFSNT BOE DPOEJUJPOT

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

SPORT

Cheltenham Festival 2015

TWISTON-DAVIES’ DELIGHT AT THE NEW ONE HORSE RACING

NIGEL Twiston-Davies could not be happier with his main challenger for honours at The Festival, The New One. Running in the Stan James Champion Hurdle for the second consecutive year, following an unlucky third in 2014, The New One bids to give Twiston-Davies, who trains within 10 miles of Cheltenham Racecourse near Guiting Power, a first success in the hurdling championship. He has gone close in the past - Khyber Kim finished second to Binocular in 2010 and The New One was hampered at a crucial stage last year when a fast-finishing third. The trainer, who has sent out a Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup winner in Imperial Commander and two Grand National victors, is confident The New One will go close. He said: “The New One is 100 per cent. It is a bit nerve-wracking - we have got one week and five days before the race, I would like it to be tomorrow. “The whole thing is easier than last year because he is not meant to win - the pressure is totally off. Two years ago, when he won the Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle, he could not possibly win as two Irish horses were definitely going to win and The New One might as well not turn up. But he did and he won and that was quite pleasant. “You could say the same thing with Denman and Kauto Star - Imperial Commander shouldn’t have turned up

WHO CAN STEM IRISH CHARGE? HORSE RACING CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE

very short odds it is probably best to swerve those races for win purposes if looking for value although it is interesting to note that the first race on the card the Supreme Novices can often throw up a surprise winner so Douvain (at 7/4) might be worth opposing once the final field is known on Monday. Annie Power too has been the subject of some concern expressed by her trainer Willie Mullins and as a result Polly Peacham (presently 10/1) and Caroles Spirit(presently 14/1) could provide each way plays on the opening day if either or both turn up. Hurricane Fly has already been suggested as an each way alternative for the Champion Hurdle in which Faugheen and The New One dominate the market. Whatever the outcome, the racing will provide a thrilling start to the four days. The Wednesday and the Thursday of the meeting provide much more realistic

for the Gold Cup, but he did and won too. It is much nicer that way. “My worst year was when Imperial Commander was favourite and then everything went wrong - that felt hard. “The New One has done brilliantly this season. He and Faugheen haven’t been racing against championship horses, they have been beating also-rans very well - the one who sticks out is Hurricane Fly who has beaten good ones. “It was terrible ground at Haydock last time and The New One was following a horse who was jumping to the right. When Sam (son) asked the New One to quicken, it took a little time but away he went as usual, despite hating every minute of it. “Grade Ones are almost easier to win than Grade Twos in which you are giving 8lb to the other horses. He won well at Chel-

betting opportunities. The stand out races on the Wednesday are the RSA Chase and the Champion Chase. The Former sees very open betting presently between the top five in the market but King’s Palace, a winner around Cheltenham this season already, should have too much pace for his rivals and at a best price currently of 5/1 is a bet to nothing to be in the first three but more likely to be the winner for the Pipe/Scudamore team who invariably get at least one success at this meeting over the years. Coneygree is a likely player in this race too and is worth a saver as he jumps and stays and might get King’s Palace off the bridle at an early stage in the race. The Young Master would also have a chance if turning out for this race. The Latter sees a mouth watering clash between Sprinter Sacre,Sire De Grugy and Dodging Bullets and is arguably the race of the whole meeting. Sprinter Sacre did not overly impress in his comeback race at Ascot, similarly Sire De Grugy had a blip at Newbury but came right back to his best at Chepstow recently and was visually very impressive. Dodging Bullets is the improver in the race having won the Tingle Creek at

tenham in December (in the Grade Two StanJames.com International) and in all his races this season, apart from at Haydock, he has been on the bridle at the last hurdle and quickened away nicely - what more could you want? “A horse does not become a bad jumper when he has jumped well all his life - he has only made three significant mistakes in his career - one at Kempton when he was beaten by My Tent Or Yours and that was a split or bust occasion at the last. “You could argue The New One was 6lb below his best at Haydock on ground he positively hated - it wasn’t that bad. “We won’t be allowing Faugheen out of our sights. The New One quickens off any pace but there is no way we want the other horse to go off 10 lengths in front. Faugheen has done brilliantly but we can do as good. I think they should be joint favourites “Faugheen is always going to be impressive because he takes up the running far earlier that we do. The New One lost eight to 10 lengths in the race last year and was stopped and had to start again. It is really hard work to do that. He was brought to a standstill and had to pick himself up and carry on.”

Sandown and is respected. Mr Mole has also improved and is seen as one of Tony McCoy’s better mounts at the festival. Sire De Grugy is however the confident choice to retain his crown and could be overpriced in the ante post betting market. Dodging Bullets is the saver at around 9/2 currently. The Ryanair Chase on Thursday sees an opportunity for Don Poli to confirm his excellent form this season and bring the prize back to Ireland and to Michael O’Leary whose company sponsor the race. The World Hurdle on the same day sees Rock on Ruby step up to three miles for the first time but this former Champion Hurdler has been very impressive over two miles four furlongs this season and he can reward ante post backers at a healthy 8/1( non runner no bet) as he is sure to be shorter on the day. Some of the bookmakers are already offering novelty bets in their shops and online to get ahead of their competitors and it is always worth shopping around particularly on race day when ‘best odds guaranteed’ will be widespread, and to which there is no downside if you are fortunate enough to pick the winner; if you are not fortunate enough to pick any winners remember it is only money!

Focus on legend McCoy’s Cheltenham farewell HORSE RACING

ALL OF the focus at the Cheltenham Festival will be on 19 time champion jockey AP McCoy who announced that he will retire at the end of the season, making this the last time he will appear at the highlight of the National Hunt season. This announcement will only add to the excitement and anticipation ahead of four days where all the top horses, owners, trainers and jockeys will be in attendance. The first big race of the week is the Champion Hurdle (3:20, Tuesday 10th March) where Irish trainer Willie Mullins saddles the hot favourite Faugheen, who won at the previous year’s festival in the classic novices’ hurdle and remains undefeated. His main rival will be The New One, representing the Cheltenham-based father and son duo of Nigel and Sam Twiston-Davies. This horse was considered to be a very unlucky third in the same race last year, coming back strongly after meeting interference at one of the hurdles. The McCoy interest in this race is carried by Jezki, last year’s winner, representing legendary owner JP McManus who will be hoping for another successful festival. Wednesday’s Queen Mother Champion Chase looks set to be one of the highlights of the week, seeing the two previous winners of the race clash. This breathtaking race, ran over two miles, sees the most exciting winner in many years, Sprinter Sacre, face the popular 2014 winner Sire De Grugy. These two horses have had far from the most straightforward of preparations for this year’s race, with Sprinter Sacre returning at Ascot in January after nearly a year away from racing due to an irregular heartbeat and will have been meticulously prepared for the race by leading trainer Nicky Henderson. Sire De Grugy suffered a setback on his return from injury at Newbury, unseating jockey Jamie Moore, but came back impressively when winning at Chepstow last month. The disruption to their preparations will give hope to third favourite, the Paul Nicholls-trained Dodging Bullets. Nicholls will have high hopes for Thursday’s World Hurdle, with two of the leading contenders in Zarkandar and Saphire Du Rheu. Saphire Du Rheu would be a fitting winner as he is owned by Andy Stewart, whose previous charge and festival favourite Big Bucks won the race on four consecutive occasions from 20092012. The ante-post favourite is the Willie Mullins trained Annie Power, but they may instead opt to run her in the Mares Hurdle on the opening day of the festival. This year’s race is one of the most open in recent times, with other contenders including Rock on Ruby, Lieutenant Colonel and Un Temps Pour Tout amongst others. There will be an in-depth preview of the biggest race of the week, the .... Gold Cup and the rest of Friday’s action, in next week’s edition of the Cheltenham Standard.

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

Six Nations 2015 ROUNDUP

SPORT

Results: FRANCE 13 WALES 20; SCOTLAND 19 ITALY 22; IRELAND 19 ENGLAND 9 Fixtures: Sat, March 14: Wales v Ireland (2.30pm); England v Scotland (5pm) Sun, March 15: Italy v France (3pm)

VICKERY’S VIEW ENGLAND’S defeat to Ireland at the Aviva stadium was disappointing, but Ireland weren’t that much better than England, they just executed their game-plan far better. What Ireland did wasn’t particularly world-beating, but it is effective, and most importantly you can see that the players believe in it. If all 15 players on the pitch are all together, not going away from the game-plan, you will win more games than you lose. The defeat seemed to expose some of England’s inexperience playing in these big-game situations. Away from home it’s important that you keep your discipline, and England set the scene in the early minutes of the game by giving away early penalties and allowing Ireland to relieve pressure far too easily.

You couldn’t fault any of the England players for physical effort and endeavour, they just lacked a little bit of composure and decisiveness at key moments in the game. It was disappointing as it’s a game England could have won, but sometimes you need to take a step back. Some of the reaction to the defeat in the media has been over the top. It wasn’t like when I played in an England team that lost a Grand Slam decider against Scotland, where we capitulated completely against a side we should have beaten easily. I’m sure the England players and staff will be frustrated as some of the key reasons for the loss are things we’ve talked about over the last three or four weeks. But all is not lost for England, what is im-

England World Cup winning hero Phil Vickery MBE shares his thoughts on the 2015 RBS Six Nations, only in the Cheltenham Standard

portant now is that the players learn lessons from this defeat, and learn quickly. There’s two games left in the Six Nations, and although things are now out of England’s hands, they still have a chance and they should be looking to end on a high. I said last week that I fancied Wales to get a result in Paris and they didn’t disappoint. They know how to set-up to win one off games. Wales’ front-line team is probably the best in the tournament, it’s just they lack depth if they lose a few of their key players to injury. If I was to back any of the three

sides in contention to win the tournament, it would be Wales. If Wales can produce the kind of performance they did in the first half against England over a full game, they could beat anybody. There are injury concerns over Jonathan Sexton and if he is out for Ireland, I can’t see them winning at the Millennium Stadium. This Ireland team isn’t unbeatable by any stretch of the imagination and Wales will want to show people what they’re about after the loss to England on the opening weekend. Scotland were by far the better team against Italy, but they got dragged away from the game they wanted to play and into a bit of a scrap, which suited the Italians. They didn’t get away from Italy

when they had the chance, failing to take advantage of the opportunities they had. Italy got a bit of luck with Venditti’s try but that was just reward for his chasing of the penalty kick, it’s not something you see too often. After that, Scotland played into Italy’s hands, trying to battle a strong Italian pack. The Scots will still be a big threat to England in just over a week’s time when they come to Twickenham for the Calcutta Cup. With Ireland travelling to Wales for a potential tournament decider, it’s going to be another great weekend of rugby.

In association with

Cheltenham bounce back with home win over Saracens RUGBY UNION

Cheltenham 27 Bristol Saracens 8 CHELTENHAM returned to form with an impressive victory over Bristol Saracens which took them up to seventh in Western Counties North. The game was moved to Newlands Park due to the Prince of Wales Stadium being unfit to play. It kicked off with Cheltenham playing with a strong gusty wind; however it was Saracens who got the first score in the fourth minute when wing Mark Wright caught Cheltenham off guard for a unconverted try. Cheltenham reduced the visitors’ lead to 5-3 in the 22nd minute with wing Josh Herbert kicking a penalty. Cheltenham utilised the stiff breeze and after a period of forward pressure captain James Hillier drove over from a set piece scrum for the opening try with Herbert’s conversion attempt striking the upright for a 8-5 home lead. Just before Cheltenham very nearly extended their lead with Hillier and Rich Athey to the fore but resolute defending from Saracens denied any score. In the 50th minute Bristol Saracens drew level by way of a Jim Fox penalty, but Cheltenham soon regained the lead when Athey secured good ball with the forwards combining

well for Hillier grab his second try with Herbert kicking the extras for a 15-8 lead after 53 minutes. A altercation off the ball led to Saracens’ Billy Jeanes receiving a yellow card from referee Michael Hale. Cheltenham made the extra man count when in the 61st minute Ben Lockhart out stripped the Saracens defence for a good unconverted try to extend the home lead to 20-8. Cheltenham continued to have more of the ball and in the 73rd minute replacement Ross Griffiths drove over from short range for a try with Sam Brookes converting to lead 27-8. Griffiths’ cameo appearance came to abrupt end two minutes later after he was yellow carded for a ruck infringement. Despite this setback Cheltenham held on for a heartening home win in a very entertaining game. Cheltenham: H Compton, S Haskayne, M Carter, J Hillier, R Barrowcliffe, D Alden, N Clifford, R Athey, P Hillier, S Brookes, J Herbert, R Morris, W Scott, D Edwards, B Lockhart. Replacements: R Griffiths, J Haskayne, B Hough. Bristol Saracens: J Lloyd, J Ball, A Willmott, J Skinner, A Smallbank, W Haldane, K Venn, L Collinson, C McCabe, J Fox, J Burnford, D Wright, I Werrett, M Wright, D Ross. Replacements: A Rainey, B Jeanes, T Edwards. Star Man: Rich Athey.

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

SPORT

Local Sport

Ten man Cleeve battle back for a point Varnam miss proves costly for Barometrics SOUTHERN LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Taverners FC Barometrics

1 2

FC BAROMETRICS travelled to Stroud to face Taverners in Gloucestershire Northern Senior League Division One hoping to put two defeats in their last two games behind them. They were dealt an early blow as Rob Sherwood’s wife went into labour an hour before the game, leaving them with no recognised goalkeeper. Striker Craig Jones filled the vacant slot between the sticks and he had very little to do in the early stages as the Baros defence, marshalled superbly by Rob Joynes managed to protected him well until the 32nd minute. Taverners broke the deadlock after a hopeful ball was played into the box and misjudged by Jones and the loose ball was fired home. With half-time approaching, Baros pushed for an equaliser. After some

good work in midfield from James Bayliffe, Carl Griffiths who worked his way into the box and looked certain to level the scores, only to be denied by a last ditch tackle. Baros started the second half on the front foot, forcing several corners and it was from one of these that the scores were levelled. An inswinging delivery from Luke Limerick was met by the impressive Joynes and his header gave the Taverners goalkeeper no chance. Jonny Howley started a good move down the right which saw Danny Gittings put in a quality cross and striker Andy Varnam coming in at the back post looked certain to score but his free header lacked power and the Taveners goalkeeper pushed the ball away. This miss proved costly because in injury time the home side worked their way to the byline and a cross was bundled home from close range and Baros were left wondering how they came away empty-handed.

Clevedon Town Bishop’s Cleeve

2 2

BISHOP’S Cleeve showed real character to come from two goals down with 10 men to earn a vital point in their battle for Southern League survival. Boss Steve Cleal named an unchanged starting XI for only the second time this season for the short trip to Clevedon. On 25 minutes Cleeve’s Nathan Summers was given a straight red card for a collision with Joe Swift and the deadlock was broken in stoppage time at the end of the first half through Ben Bament’s strike. The second half saw the home side pressing for a second goal while

PHOTO: AlAn FrAnklin

NORTHERN SENIOR FOOTBALL

Cleal’s men were organised and disciplined, Aaron Drake shot wide on 50 minutes and five minutes later Jack Watts set up Ed Major whose shot went just over. Clevedon made it 2-0 in the 75th minute when Bament was the ben-

Service resume title charge with win over Cleeve Reserves COUNTY LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Bishops Cleeve Res 0 Chelt Civil Service 2

CHELTENHAM Civil Service gained a 2-0 victory at local rivals Bishop’s Cleeve Reserves, exacting revenge for their only defeat of the season so far.

Matt Evans speaks to... Kim Bailey HORSE RACING

It is 20 years since Kim Bailey completed a historic double at the Festival, winning both the Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup in 1995, while he has also trained the winner of the Grand National. Based at Thorndale Farm, the Cheltenham Standard had the chance to catch up with Kim during his preparations for race week. Q: How have your preparations been going for race week? A: It’s no different from any other week really although there has been many late nights due to Cheltenham preview evenings!

Q: You’ve trained winners in the Gold Cup, Grand National and Champion Hurdle, do you have a favourite victory out of the three? A: Alderbrook winning the Champion Hurdle… it was a surprise to have been asked to win it by the owner. Q: And what has been the best horse you’ve trained? A: Alderbrook again Q: Having completed the big three of wins as mentioned above, is there another race you’d like to win? A: I’d like to win all three again please!

Q: How much do you enjoy both the build-up to the Festival and race week itself? A: I love it, events like the Festival are why you do it.

Q: This will be AP McCoy’s last Cheltenham Festival after announcing his retirement, what are your thoughts on his career and the announcement? A: He is the best jockey I have seen and one of the most dedicated. We will miss him.

Q: Which of the horses you have entered in the Festival should our readers look out for? A: Un Ace in the Golden’s Miller Novice’s chase(1:30, Thursday 12th March)

Q: Finally, what horse (that isn’t your own) are you most looking forward to seeing run at the Festival? A: Un De Sceaux in Racing Post Arkle Trophy

eficiary of a sliced shot and he volleyed home through a crowded box. Cleeve were not out of the game though, and the comeback started after 78 minutes when Major was played in and he slotted smartly into the corner for his second goal in two matches. Then a free-kick brought an equaliser, as the ball dropped into the box and substitute Ben Maguire laid the ball back to skipper Daniel Sherry who smashed the ball into the net. Cleal said: “I said to the lads no matter what we have to get something from the game and to their credit they responded. “I thought we were good value for the point and possibly on another day we could have had all three.”

A cross-shot from the edge of the box by John Evans put the visitors ahead after 20 minutes and a second in the 70th minute from Paul Holmes made sure of the three points. Service are now one point behind Chipping Sodbury Town with six games in hand, putting them firmly on course for the County League title. They play Patchway Town at home on Saturday, while second from bottom Cleeve Reserves visit Yate Town Reserves.

Matt Evans picks his... Three stars of the Festival Davies is already highly regarded within racing circles and surely is a Champion Jockey of the future.

HORSE RACING

HORSE Un De Sceaux is heavy favourite for the Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy on day one and with good reason too. This French bred horse has been very impressive in his two victories over fences this year, falling on his other start, and looks to be a horse of tremendous potential. An impressive win at the Festival would make him a leading contender for the 2016 Queen Mother Champion Chase. JOCKEY Cheltenham-based Sam TwistonDavies (pictured) will be hoping for a successful festival in his first year of being stable jockey to leading trainer Paul Nicholls. Nicholls will have a strong team

throughout the four days and Twiston-Davies will be looking to secure his first win in one of the big four races at the Festival. His big hope comes in the form of The New One in Tuesday’s Champion Hurdle, which will be supplemented by a host of other strongly-fancied horses. Twiston-

TRAINER Willie Mullins heads to the festival hoping to be leading trainer for the third consecutive year. He comes to Cheltenham with possibly his strongest ever team, even by his high standards. This includes favourites for at least four races on the opening day. Mullins has won the Weatherby’s Champion Bumper a record eight times and his seven entries for the 2015 renewal include the antepost favourite Bordini.

5 MARCH 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

SPORT

Local Football

Cheltenham League round-up

Southside’s Tom Wright, followed by FC Barometrics Reserves’ Callum Debonis and Harvey Powell

Debonis saw red for a cynical tackle which broke down another Southside attack. Despite playing more than half the game with 10 men, Baros remained competitive and the second half delivered an equally even contest with both teams creating chances. Second placed Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves were unable to take advantage of Baros’ slip up after being held to a 1-1 draw with Prestbury. At the foot of the table the bottom two teams shared the points and ten goals as Northleach and Shurdington Rovers played out a 5-5 draw. The result means that Northleach are still 11 points adrift at the foot of the table.

Welland remain top of Division Three after beating Falcons Reserves by the odd goal in seven. They lead Leckhampton Rovers by four points and still have a game in hand. Shurdington Rovers Reserves remain rooted to the foot of the table after they shipped eight goals without reply at home to Newlands. This weekend the big game sees Leckhampton take on third placed Brockworth Albion Reserves. This promises to be a big test for Leckhampton but one they must overcome if they are to retain any hope of taking the title. Cheltenham Civil Service III moved within three points of leaders Apperley after they defeated

Cheltenham Football League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Ford Cheltenham

PLAYER PROFILE OF THE WEEK

This week’s featured player is Adrian Reeves from Cheltenham Saracens III who play in Division Six. Saracens are one of Cheltenham’s best known clubs with both an adult and junior sections and have a rich history since formation in 1964 as a multi-sports club. The club is not enjoying the most successful season on the pitch with the third XI towards the bottom of Division Six and with just four league games remaining they will be looking to move to safety before the season ends.

Name: Adrian Reeves Nickname: Manger Position: Left-back Previous Clubs: Cheltenham Rovers, Kings and Whitbread Most memorable game: versus Dowty Staverton, 6-6 I scored four and set up one Worst game: Against Arlingham in the County Cup, we lost on penalties 7-6 and I missed the last pen. Toughest opponents: FC Lakeside Best club player: Simon Powell Team supported: Manchester United Favourite player: Ruud Van Nistelrooy

Action from Hatherley v Cheltenham Civil Service IV

PHOTO: Laura WOOdrOW

THERE were some big results last Saturday at the top and bottom of Division One of the Cheltenham League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford. A surprise defeat for FC Lakeside, who lost 2-1 at home to Falcons, saw Whaddon United open up some breathing room at the top of the table. United beat Bishops Cleeve III 20 and now lead Lakeside by five points after both teams have played 14 matches. At the foot of the table there was an important win for AFC Kings who beat Hanley Swan 3-1. The win moved them within five points of their opponents and they still have four games in hand. Kings play mid-table Gala Wilton Reserves this weekend whilst Swan face Lakeside who know they cannot afford to slip up if they are to keep the pressure on leaders Whaddon. Division Two leaders FC Barometrics Reserves were bought down to earth last Saturday after an impressive recent run of results when they went down 1-0 to Southside. The game was a tight physical contest with Southside claiming the only goal of the game shortly after the 30 minutes mark. Captain Rob Curry slotted in after a well worked set piece. Shortly after the goal Baros chances of getting back in the game became even harder after Callum

PHOTO: Lydia Viney

CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Bourton Rovers III 6-1 in Division Four. The two teams meet in the big game in the division this weekend with the winner likely to be the main challenger to Northway for the title. At the bottom, a 3-0 defeat for Winchcombe Town Reserves at home to AFC Kings Reserves means they prop up the table for another week.

They face Smiths Athletic Reserves on Saturday and know victory could move them off the bottom if Bourton Rovers fail to beat Southside Reserves. A 2-1 defeat for leaders Cheltenham Athletic at Staunton and Corse Reserves has opened the door for FC Lakeside Reserves and Cheltenham Civil Service IV who remain in touching distance but with at least two games in hand. Service and Lakeside both won last weekend and these two now look to have nudged ahead of Athletic in the betting for the title. With the position so tight at the top it could go down to goal difference and with Lakeside boasting a far superior difference Service will be looking at them to drop points. Fintan Reserves remain top of Division Six after a 2-1 win at Regency Town. Cheltenham United remain on their heels, just three points behind, after an impressive 8-2 win at Prestbury Rovers. With Fintan in County Cup action on Saturday, United could go top if they beat Gala Wilton IV by more than four goals. Malvern Vale will want to show that they are still serious title contenders despite suffering their first dropped points in recent weeks to United and Fintan. They take on bottom club Cheltenham Saracens III on Saturday and will be confident of picking up maximum points.

Super Southside are champions... again! YOUTH FOOTBALL

Lakeside Blues U11’s 0 Southside Lions U11’s 4 SOUTHSIDE Lions made it three title wins out of three with a convincing win against last seasons runners-up Lakeside Blues. Callum Morrissey opened the scoring for Lions when he fol-

lowed up a rebound off the Lakeside goalkeeper. George Cuzner made it two just before half-time when his run and shot found the bottom corner. Cuzner scored his second and Lions’ third when he was put through by Scooter Edwards and Cuzner returned the compliment finding Edwards who lobbed the Lakeside goalkeeper to make the game safe. It gave Lions the three points that made them uncatchable at the top of Division One, with an unbeaten record still intact. Southside Lions: Schofield, Hitchins, Inward, Groom, Duncan, Peck, Cuzner, Jameson, Edwards, Morrissey, Hunt, Recewz, Jordanov Star Man: George Cuzner

CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 MARCH 2015

SPORT

with JON PALMER, SPORTS EDITOR

EXCLUSIVE

jon@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

VICKERY’S VIEW

Matt Sparrow is challenged in the box in the ﬁrst half at Carlisle and boss Russell Milton (right) felt a penalty should have been awarded

PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA

Phil Vickery MBE shares his thoughts on the 2015 RBS Six Nations PAGE 29

USSELL Milton says Cheltenham Town cannot afford to dwell on Tuesday night’s defeat at Carlisle United, with a huge home match against Mansfield Town to prepare for on Saturday. The Robins slipped back into the bottom two at Brunton Park, with Charlie Wyke’s 31st minute goal enough to seal three valuable points for the Cumbrians. It brought Cheltenham back down to earth after last Saturday’s 2-0 home victory over Tranmere Rovers, which led chairman Paul Baker to declare the ‘buzz was back’ at Whaddon Road. “With the position we are in, there are going to be ups

and downs and it’s all about being constant and level headed now, not getting too high or too low,” Milton said. “There isn’t time for the lads to have glum faces and I told them as soon as they came off the pitch on Tuesday that it’s all about three points on Saturday now. “They have to do everything they need to do to be ready for kick-off against Mansfield and I know there is enough in that dressing room for us to get out of trouble, and we will do that.” Milton felt Cheltenham should have been awarded a penalty in the first half when Matt Sparrow went

down in the box under a challenge, but referee Craig Pawson waved their appeals away. He admitted there was not enough cutting edge in the final third on a wet and windy night in the extreme north west. “We had a few chances in the second half and we knew we’d be more in their half of the pitch, but we didn’t create too much,” he said. “Our decision making was not what it should be and nor was the end product. We had one cleared off the line and Matt Taylor had a free header from eight yards out. “Our best two chances fell to Matt and he was in there so you can’t fault him for

having a go, but it didn’t happen for him. “We broke quite well at times in the first half, but didn’t make the most of our opportunities in and around their box. “Their left-back got the better of Wes Burns and I said to him, keep going and keep committing him and you’ll get in and he did, but the end product was lacking.” CARLISLE UNITED: Hanford; Young, O’Hanlon, Archibald-Henville, Brough; Amoo, Griffith, Dempsey, Sweeney; Wyke, Rigg (Asamoah 90). Subs not used: Buddle, Paynter, Thirlwell, Gillies, Meppen-Walter, Spiegel.

DIETS ALONE DON’T WORK – 2003

Every time I lost a stone, I’d quickly put it back on again

2009

Find out how: Jenny Tuckwell Cheltenham & Gloucester Tel: 07963 300848 Visit: lighterlife.com/JennyTuckwell

PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA

WE HAVE ENOUGH QUALITY TO SURVIVE , SAYS BOSS MILTON

CHELTENHAM TOWN: Carson; Vaughan, Brown, Taylor (c), Braham-Barrett; Burns, Sparrow, Mills (Wynter 79), M Richards, E Richards (Manset 55); Harrad. Subs not used: Johnstone, Gould, Hanks, Kotwica, Berry. REFEREE: C Pawson ATTENDANCE: 3,118 (92 from Cheltenham)

Where better to learn? Visit our website for future camps and further details

www.shaneduffsoccer.co.uk

King’s Palace and Sire De Grugy to stem Irish charge FESTIVAL PREVIEW

BY JAMES DALY * Saturday’s match has been deemed Retro Shirt Day at Whaddon Road, with the club calling on fans to wear replica shirts from the past and show their colours on what promises to be another vital occasion in their bid to stay in the Football League.

THE Festival gets under way on Tuesday with Irish runners holding a very strong hand in all the feature races that day. Douvain, Un De Sceaux, Faugheen and Annie Power are seen by many as bankers but at TURN TO PAGE 28 >

lighter life does! I LOST 4st 4lb IN 4 MONTHS Maintaining for 4 years