Cheltenham Standard 5th June 2014

WEEKLY

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Summer drink drive crackdown Police to target drivers in planned ‘morning after’ Gloucestershire campaign

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HE ‘Morning After’ campaign actually targets drinkers who do the right thing on the night by taking a lift to the pub or club, share the journey with a designated driver or get a taxi home. However, people don’t realise the time it takes for the alcohol to leave their body, sometimes getting up in the morning and driving their car.

Cllr Will Windsor-Clive, cabinet member for road safety commented, “Many of us enjoy a relaxing summer drink or a big night out every so often. The majority of people do the right thing by leaving the car at home, but what they don’t realise is the amount of alcohol that remains in the body through to the following day and

especially during the morning rush hour.’’ One unit of alcohol takes the body around an hour to break down; so, for example, a person drinking three large (250ml) glasses of wine (15% alcohol) in an evening and who stops drinking at midnight shouldn’t drive for 13 hours, that’s 1pm the following day.

Garry Handley, Road Safety Manager for the Gloucestershire Road Safety Partnership said, “Although the number of people drinking and driving has reduced significantly in recent years, it still remains a serious road safety problem. Around 1000 local drivers are arrested and convicted every year, and they have to live with the personal and social

consequences of their actions.

Tragically of course, for some, lives are lost’’. In support of the campaign posters are being displayed in pubs and clubs, messages posted on fuel pump nozzles and adverts will appear on radio. The aim is to remind all those who drink alcohol and have a licence to avoid the morning after danger. Stewart Edgar, Chief Fire Officer said: “The campaign has been developed to make more people aware that when they feel rough the morning after it’s probably because of the excess alcohol that’s still in their system.

“Our message is simple, don’t risk driving if you think there’s the slightest chance you’re not safe and could still be impaired’’.

70 jobs may stay in Cheltenham after £42m takeover of GE Aviation Systems AIRCRAFT manufacturer The Triumph Group says it has agreed to buy the business, which employs staff in Cheltenham, the Isle of Man and Washington, US. A period of uncertainty over the future of the landing gear business is now over, according to the union Unite. The division is part of US-owned firm GE Aviation which makes instruments for military and civilian aircraft. “This is good news for the workforce in Cheltenham and Continued on Page 2

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Continued from cover story...

Man from Croydon sentenced to 6 years for serious sexual assault in Cheltenham

Good news for GE Aviation workforce the Isle of Man as the Triumph Group wishes to expand its operations in the UK,” said Unite regional officer Christine Starling. “There has been a question mark hanging over the future of the landing gear business as GE Aviation has been seeking to offload the business for the last two years.

This period of uncertainly is now over.” She said she understood that the Pennsylvania-based Triumph Group was looking for a site in the Cheltenham area to relocate the business to. The $70m deal remains subject to approvals but is expected to be completed in the next few months.

Petition Against Convicted Child Abuser A woman who was abused as a child has started an online petition to stop a convicted Gloucestershire woman being rehomed nearby. Eunice Spry is due to be released from prison next month, seven years after being jailed for abusing her two foster children and an adopted daughter.

A MAN has been sentenced to 6 years in prison for sexual assault in Cheltenham. Kamil Ahmed Hossenbux of Ferns Close, Selsdon near Croydon pleaded guilty to the offences and was handed the jail term at Gloucester Crown Court yesterday(May 29). The conviction relates to a number of incidents of sexual assault between 1990 and 1998 when the two girls were between 8 and 14 years old at a

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must then be referred to Cheltenham Magistrates Court which will decide if the notice should be turned into an order (DVPO), which can last between 14 and 28 days. D/Superintendent Simon Atkinson from the Public Protection Bureau, Gloucestershire Constabulary says "At a time when victims are vulnerable and lack the confidence to pursue a criminal prosecution, the use of the DVPN/O

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abused that to take advantage of innocent children. The victims in this case were especially brave given the culture of their family and we would like to place on record our respect for their actions.

“I hope this conviction sends a message to victims and offenders that we treat complaints of this nature very seriously and we will do whatever necessary to bring about an appropriate prosecution.”

Police get new powers to help domestic abuse victims FROM June 2nd 2014, all police officers in the South West, including Gloucestershire, will have new powers to help victims of domestic violence and abuse. When an incident if domestic abuse is reported to the police but there is insufficient evidence to bring a charge, the suspect is currently released from custody, often without any restrictions on their movement. Under the new scheme, if there is concern that a partner has been the subject of violence or the threat of violence and that risk remains, a 48-hour Domestic Violence Protection Notice (DVPN) can be authorised by a Superintendent before a suspect leaves custody. This can result in banning the perpetrator from returning to the victim’s address (which might also be their home), or the area around it, and from molesting the victim. The decision

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number of locations in Cheltenham including care homes that the offender ran. Kamil Hossenbux is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for a previous crime.

Detective Constable Jay Penfold who led the investigation said “This has been a long investigation taking nearly two years, which makes the sentencing even more satisfying. “Kamil Hossenbux was in a position of power and he

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allows officers to better safeguard individuals. DVPN/Os will also provide the victim the opportunity to engage with specialist services and the time and space to think things through in a safe environment without the fear of further threats or violence. Perpetrators will be signposted to appropriate support agencies in an effort to prevent further re-offending. The scheme was trialled in Greater Manchester, West Mercia and Wiltshire over a 15 month period 2011/2012 and was then subject to Home Office evaluation. Detective Inspector Ben Mant from Wiltshire police said: “Wiltshire Police are proud to have played a significant part in the inception of DVPNs/DVPOs. “It is important to point out that the scheme is not the final solution to tackling domestic abuse. It is just a further tool that we are using to help both victims and future victims of this crime. “The future success of a DVPN/DVPO will ultimately depend on the person at risk being given the space and time to consider their options with the help of partner agencies.”

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Cheltenham drug trafficker appeal goes to High Court Lindsay Sandiford

sentenced to death.

“British nationals who find themselves facing a death sentence in Indonesia also find themselves at a disadvantage compared to other European nationals whose home governments provide assistance. “Had Lindsay been Dutch, Austrian, Swedish or German, she would have been represented by wellrespected local counsel – and very likely have avoided a death sentence in the first place. “The Indonesian government also takes this position – admirably, they provide legal assistance for their nationals facing a death sentence overseas, from Florida to Saudi Arabia.

“Indonesia stands firmly at the side of its citizens overseas and expects that European governments, with significantly more funds at their disposal, will do the same.”

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Boris Johnson sweeps boldly into Cheltenham

TANDING outside the Town Hall with his shock of blonde hair billowing in the gusting wind, Mr Johnson outlined his commitment and support for the forthcoming local elections and his outspoken support for the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Alex Chalk. In a brutal side-swipe at the local MP, Martin Horwood, Boris Johnson was extremely vocal in is his negative comments about the incumbent MP for Cheltenham. In a scathing attack which boiled over into some real venom, Mr Johnson likened Mr Horwood to a lapdog that had absolutely no affect on the town.

He told The Cheltenham Standard, ‘’The Liberal Democrats in this town are nothing short of spineless and are great at wasting taxpayers money on utterly useless projects’’. He went to say, ‘It’s we Conservatives who are actually listening to people, not the Liberals’’. He continued, ‘’I’m here to give my support to Alex Chalk the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Cheltenham’’.

Mr Johnson further said, ‘’As you know Alex is a local chap and Boris Johnson with local Conservatives is very well-entrenched in the Cheltenham community. He’s a making the right decision for your natural choice to represent this town is crucial. I firmly believe great town of yours’’. Posing for that choosing the conservative photographs with Alex Chalk and path is the only way of ensuring a host of local Tories, Boris the taxes aren’t wasted and that Johnson further said, ‘’These local spending is kept under control’’. elections are hugely important and The photo call at the Town Hall

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The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson swept into Cheltenham on Tuesday this week amidst a flurry of media and local reporters

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going on to say,’ Alex Chalk is a great candidate and will I’m sure represent this town in a way befitting of a local caring politician who actually wants to see things get done’’. The crowded press briefing was on occasion both laughing and gasping as Mr Johnson went on the attack again saying, ’’The local MP here is clueless and we know even up in London and at Westminster how important the A417 Loop is.

The road is a killer. To sit on the fence about this as Mr Horwood has, is as I said before, lapdog behaviour.

He reminds me of some sort of prophylactic’’. Strong words indeed. The Major of London is no stranger to outspoken and sometimes out of place comments that have on many occasions, riled both his colleagues at County Hall and his political foes at Westminster.

PHOTO: DAN HICKS

covering the sum needed.

The Master of the Rolls Lord Dyson, referring to the donations, said it may be that “the appellant no longer has an interest in the outcome of the appeal”, but added: “The appeal raises points which have implications for other UK nationals facing the death penalty abroad.” Lord Dyson said the question was not whether the Foreign Secretary could produce a different policy “which many would regard as fairer and more reasonable and humane than the present policy”, but whether the policy he had produced was “irrational”. He concluded: “I am in no doubt that the policy is not irrational. It is based on reasoning which is coherent and which is neither arbitrary nor perverse.” Sandiford, originally from Redcar, Teesside – who claimed she was forced to transport the drugs to protect her children, whose safety was at stake – was sentenced to death in January 2013 by judges of the District Court of Denpasar in Bali. She then appealed against conviction and sentence but her case was rejected by the High Court of Denpasar. Last August, a three-judge panel at the Indonesian Supreme Court in Jakarta also rejected her appeal. She is currently waiting to apply for clemency. Maya Foa, death penalty director of human rights campaign group Reprieve, said: “Lindsay was only sentenced to death because she didn’t have funding for an adequate lawyer. “Her codefendants, all of whom had competent lawyers and funds at their disposal, received sentences of one to seven years. Lindsay, who had neither, was

CONSERVATIVE Councillors have this evening chosen Councillor Duncan Smith (Charlton Park) (pictured) to be their new Group Leader on the Council. Councillors began by conveying their gratitude to outgoing Group Leader Rob Garnham, with Councillor Anne Regan stating “Rob has dedicated years of service to this town and Cheltenham Borough Council has lost one of its best representatives. He has shown remarkable leadership of the Conservative Councillors and achieved a considerable amount over his years of service*, and as a group we are full of the utmost respect for him.” Councillors then unanimously appointed Duncan Smith as their new leader.

Duncan commented “The Conservative group is in excellent spirits. Over the coming months, we are looking forward to fearlessly standing up for our residents, and holding the Liberal Democrat council to account. Where they are right we will support them. But where they are failing our town we will challenge them robustly. Rob is a loss to the group, but we have gained some tremendous new councillors - Chris Nelson, Matt Babbage and Chris Mason.” Alex Chalk, Cheltenham's prospective MP commented “Congratulations to Duncan. He is a talented and courageous councillor, and tells it as it is. He makes powerful contributions to debates and I know he will be a strong voice for Cheltenham.”

PHOTO: ROB WHEATMAN

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CHALLENGE against the Government’s refusal to pay for legal representation for a grandmother from Gloucestershire facing the death penalty in Indonesia reaches the UK’s highest court.

Supreme Court justices in London are being asked to rule in an appeal by Lindsay Sandiford, who was convicted of trafficking drugs into the resort island of Bali, on whether a policy not to provide legal funding to those facing capital charges abroad is lawful. Sandiford, 57, from Cheltenham, has previously lost High Court and Court of Appeal challenges against the policy.

In April last year, three appeal judges in London ruled that the UK Government’s policy of not providing funding for legal representation to any British national who faces criminal proceedings abroad – even in death penalty cases – was not unlawful. That decision will be under the spotlight before five Supreme Court justices in London during a hearing expected to last a day. The Court of Appeal’s decision followed an earlier High Court ruling that the Government was not legally obliged to pay for “an adequate lawyer” to represent Sandiford, who was sentenced to death by firing squad after being found with cocaine worth an estimated £1.6 million as she arrived in Bali on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand, in May 2012.

Appeal judges heard at the time of the hearing before them last year that she needed around £8,000 for her legal fight against the death sentence – following those proceedings she received donations

Conservative Councillors announce new Group Leader

swiftly relocated to local estate agents, Knight Frank on the Prom who hosted a luncheon in conjunction with the Cheltenham Conservatives. Boris Johnson further expanded his support and views for all things conservative

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50 Years of The Red Arrows A

S THE RAF's Red Arrows commence their 50th display season we take a look back at the history of the display team and the pilots who have thrilled spectators with their daredevil displays over the decades.

The year is 1965, the Beatles are rolling high in the charts, the mini-skirt is in fashion, England are good at football and the RAF's top fliers are set to embark on a journey which will see new standards in aviation excellence being set. The Red Arrows began life at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, where a major celebration is planned at this years’ Royal International Air Tattoo.

Since then the team has performed more than 4,500 displays in 55 different countries, including a recent first time display in Kuwait.

Highlights of the Middle East tour included the team meeting Prime Minister David Cameron in Dubai and flypasts over the city and its landmarks, such as the Burj Al Arab hotel. But, back in the day, the team's fist performance was a more low-key affair. Led by Sqd Ldr Lee Jones, the team was unveiled to the media on 6 May, 1965, at

Little Rissington in Gloucestershire. This was a special display to promote the team. The first actual public display was on 9 May 1965 at Clermont Ferrand in France. The Red Arrows' first UK public display was at Biggin Hill on 15 May, where the sevenstrong team put on a 15 minute show in front of a crowd of about 40,000..

The team officially became nine strong in 1968, after which the Red Arrows' diamond-shaped flying formation with the Diamond Nine becoming the signature move.

Scores of celebrities have flown with the Red Arrows over the years, including racing drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nigel Mansell and Queen guitarist Brian May, who described it as an "amazing experience". When asked if his hair fitted inside his helmet, he replied: "It's not the hair that's the problem, it's my ears." In 2011, tragedy hit the team with the deaths of two pilots in quick succession. Flt Lt Sean Cunningham was killed at RAF Scampton after being accidentally ejected from his Hawk T1.

His colleague, Flt Lt Jon Egging, had been killed after completing a display

RED ARROWS HISTORY > The RAF had several aerobatic display teams in the 1950s and 1960s, but decided to disband them and form a single, full-time professional team. > The name Red Arrows was chosen to combine the appeal and expertise of two earlier teams, the Black Arrows and the Red Pelicans. > The formal name is Rafat, which stands for Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team. > The team originally flew Gnat jets but switched to the BAE Systems Hawk, which it still flies today, for the 1980.

at the Bournemouth Air Festival less than three months before. Two fatalities so close together meant the safety of the team was questioned.

Following Flt Lt Egging's death, his wife, Dr Emma Egging, founded a trust in his name, with his mother Dawn, childhood friend James Godley, and Ben Plank. The trust aims to help disadvantaged young people through engagement programmes and has just appointed television science presenter Professor Brian Cox as its patron. Fast forward to 2014 and the team, including two new members, is ready to thrill spectators at events, including appearing at a DDay commemoration event in Portsmouth, the Isle of Man TT this weekend and the British Formula One Grand Prix at Silverstone.

"We hope to entertain the public with the programme this year and hope the

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quality of the display lives up to the finest traditions of past teams," Sqd Ldr Jim Turner said, "Ever since their first performance, the Red Arrows have promoted the excellence of the Royal Air Force and its skilled, welltrained people," he added.

Two Scots, Flt Lt Stewart Campbell and Flt Lt Joe Hourston, from the Borders and the Highlands, are the team's newest members. "The 50th display season in 2014 makes this a particularly special time to arrive," said Flt Lt Hourston, who served in Afghanistan. "Since day one of deciding to be a pilot I've always wanted to be a member of the team because of what it represents and the variety and challenge of the flying itself." The first UK show of the year for the Red Arrows is on Saturday at Falmouth, Cornwall.

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Stella the Police dog sniffs out the cash Stella, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier who has defied all the odds by being rescued from wandering the streets of Taunton has been recruited and trained by Gloucestershire Police. Around 18 months old, she was recruited in January and put through four weeks of intensive training. She hit the headlines in May after making her first find of ÂŁ200 in cash hidden in a drawer during a raid in Cheltenham.

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Fifth motorcyclist dies in less than a month A FIFTH motorcyclist has died in just three weeks on Gloucestershire’s roads.

That's more than the whole of 2013 put together when there were four. An experienced motorbike rider from Stroud named as sixty five year old Bob Price, also died this week while taking part in the TT Races on the Isle of Man.

Two months in a truck with no money and no food Sardar Jahal

The harrowing story of Cheltenham café owner Sardar Jalal as he fled the Iraqi regime THE little Paris Café in Warden Hill, Cheltenham is owned by Sardar Jalal who hid over a period of two months in the back of trucks to escape the tyranny of Iraq as it imposed its laws, its wills and its violence on the people of Kurdistan. In 2001 Sardar Jalal knew he had to flee his homeland or die. A two month odyssey hidden in the back of various vehicles finally brought him to our shores with no money, no food and more importantly no country. He was disgorged from his hiding place in the

back of a lorry on a bleak mid winter night on a motorway. Speaking no English he was promptly picked up by Police who fed him and washed him and then sent him to a holding facility at Dover.

Determined not to take UK state hand-outs or benefits, Sardar managed to get a job in a Kurdistani cafe in Bristol as a kitchen porter.

After a period as the café chef, he went on to finally manage the small restaurant. It wasn’t long though before he had his own restaurant In Bristol

Denials in Alleged Gloucester Stab Attack A Gloucester man has appeared in court to deny murdering another man, who died a week after he was stabbed. 51-year-old Anthony Poole pleaded not guilty over the death of 30-year-old Martin Stokes, who was found at a property in Nettleton Road back in January. He also denies wounding another man with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Charges brought against suspected Cheltenham loan shark A suspected loan shark from Cheltenham is facing 3 charges around illegal money lending. It follows a property in the town being raided and cash and records being seized back in April. He is on bail pending a court appearance on July 3rd.

which sadly became a casualty of the recent downturn The current seam running through this story was his determination to run from oppression and to take his place in the UK tax paying system. Sardar Jalal is now the proud owner of the Paris Cafe in Warden hill, is married to a Turkish girl he met in Cheltenham and has an 18 month year old daughter. Being part of the community is key to Sardar as he says,’ It’s important for me to really be part of the local community and make a contribution to

paying my taxes and helping out where I can’. Sardar Jalal rounds off by saying, ‘I just want people to know how very grateful I am that this country and its people have given me a chance of life and a chance to make my way in the World’. It’s a far cry from his oppressed homeland of Kurdistan and it’s also far cry from the ‘UK born’ benefit cheats we have in this country who have no intention of working. On being asked about his most precious possession he finally comments, ‘My UK passport’’.

Borough election for Charlton Park ward THE election of a borough councillor for the Charlton Park ward will take place on Thursday 3 July 2014. This was postponed following the sad death of a candidate who was standing in this ward in the 22 May elections. The notice of election has been published so anyone wanting to stand for Charlton Park ward needs to submit a nomination paper by 4pm on 6 June 2014. The three validly nominated candidates for the Charlton Park ward will not need to be re-nominated for the election.

However, they have an opportunity to withdraw if they so wish. New nominations will be possible for this election and any unsuccessful candidates from the elections held on 22 May will be eligible for nomination. To request a nomination pack, people can phone the council’s election team on 01242 264132 or call in to the Municipal Offices. Useful guides for candidates and agents can be found at www.electoralcommission.org.uk The names of those nominated will be published by 4pm on 9 June 2014 and may be available before. For the official notice of election which includes the key dates and deadlines, visit the council’s website. For more information call the election team on 01242 264132.

We have a new mayor....

THE annual inauguration of the mayor was held at Pittville Pump Room at 6.30pm on Wednesday 4th June with a good turnout of members of the public attending. Councillor Simon Wheeler stepped into his predecessor, Councillor Wendy Flynn’s, shoes and Councillor Duncan Smith was made deputy mayor at the ceremony. The mayor chairs the council and represents the borough at many local business and charity events throughout

the year. This year, the new mayor has decided to focus his fundraising efforts towards: The Aston Project and The Butterfly Garden. Councillor Simon Wheeler (pictured) commented, “I am very much looking forward to the honour of representing Cheltenham, the town I have come to love since moving here in 1968. It will be an honour to be in a position to promote two

charities that run wonderful projects for young people and for people with disabilities.

“My chosen charities carry out valuable work in the community that benefit every one of us directly or indirectly. I am looking forward to working with both of these fantastic charities over the next year.

Already in the planning phase are a number of

fundraising events, including the launch on Saturday 7 June at the Butterfly Garden and a Charity Race Day on Friday 12 December. I will also be doing the Cheltenham Challenge, a sponsored walk from Cheltenham Race Course. I’m hoping that lots of people will sponsor me so I can raise vital funds for the two charities. I am also planning to organise a number of exciting evening events over the forthcoming year.”

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 JUNE 2014

Support for RSPCA THE Cheltenham branch of the RSPCA have just had their AGM and local MP Martin Horwood who is President of the Cheltenham & East Glos Branch of the RSPCA was in attendance. The Cheltenham branch of the RSPCA takes in unwanted and rescued pets, some of which are in a very poor state of health when they arrive, but receive no council or government funding. They also run a twice weekly clinic for the pets of owners who cannot afford the usual vets charges, and provide supplementary vouchers for the treatment of their injured or sick pets. Martin Horwood MP said,

“It’s great that we have such an active branch of the RSPCA in Cheltenham and it’s an honour to be their president. The RSPCA is a powerful voice on animal welfare issues at national level and has made a really important contribution to campaigns on everything from the ban on wild animals in circuses to better measures to tackle dangerous dogs.

So both nationally and locally they really deserve our support”.

RSPCA Inspector Phil Mannm Chair of the Cheltenham & East Glos Branch Lorraine Kirkham, Martin Horwood MP, and President of the Cheltenham & East Glos Branch of the RSPCA Chief Inspector Lee Hopgood

No change in Cheltenham or West Midlands As Parliament returned this week what are we to make of UKIP’s showing in polls which delivered no changes of control in any of our 18 local authorities?

H

AVING promised “a political earthquake”, Nigel Farage has found the surface landscape of local government in this region has remained undisturbed.

UKIP were, nevertheless, the undisputed winners of the European elections.

Their 31% share of the vote was up by over 10% compared with 2009. And with a total of 42 councillors in district, borough, and county councils they have established themselves as a serious force beneath the headline numbers. Eleven of their councillors are concentrated in Black Country authorities, with Dudley emerging as their most important local power base. They also polled strongly in Cannock, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Redditch. So if not quite the promised “earthquake”, perhaps a more apt description comes

from the first of UKIP's three West Midlands MEPs to be elected. Jill Seymour MEP said “it's a turningpoint” for the party. We will know whether or not she is right only after next year's general election, now just eleven months away.

Remember, UKIP had polled strongly enough to secure two seats in 2009 only for their share of the vote here to shrink back to 4% in the following year's general election. So why does it feel different now?

UKIP secured three seats this time, confirming them as undisputed West Midlands winners. But it is also because of the multiparty environment ushered in during this era of coalition politics. The days when elections could be visualised with computer graphics showing blue or red tidal surges may be a thing of the past.

Nowadays it's not just about two main rival

Nigel Farage

parties interacting with each other; it's a more complicated picture in which a cocktail of parties exerts a variety of gravitational pulls in

different directions.

Predicting electoral outcomes in a region so clattered full of marginal seats can be tenuous at the best of times; all the more

so now there are almost thirty local seats where Labour and the Conservatives are sparring with each other in pursuit of a Commons majority.

But introduce some extra complications, like the differential impact of UKIP on the other parties and the potential redistribution of Liberal Democrat votes, and you can see why so many of the conventional pre-election calculations fly out of the window. Simply weigh the votes and there is no question the Conservatives are hit hardest by the UKIP “surge”: their tally of MEPs was reduced from three to two and they lost seats on most of the councils they contested.

But apply the numbers to council areas which roughly (or precisely) correspond to key parliamentary seats and you can see why it was Labour who ordered a

post-mortem in the immediate aftermath. For the Liberal Democrats, despite their internal ructions after their expected poor showing, there were some notable crumbs of comfort here.

They still retain their overall majority in here in Cheltenham even after half the seats were contested, much to the delight of Liberal Democrat MP Martin Horwood. They also polled respectably in wards in and around the Birmingham Yardley constituency of his parliamentary colleague John Hemming.

Significantly, these are both traditional Lib Dem areas where support has grown, almost organically.

Put all this together, and you can see why next year's main event is shaping up to be, by far, the most unpredictable of all the nine general elections that we have seen so far.

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Cheltenham’s Whole Food Market comes out to support Winston’s Wish

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HELTENHAM’S Whole Foods Market has chosen to support Winston’s Wish by donating a generous 5% of the takings from their Tewkesbury Road store on June 11th.

Winston’s Wish is the leading charity supporting children and young people after the death of a loved one. The charity helps children rebuild their lives after the death of a parent or sibling, enabling them to face the future with confidence and hope. Over the

lunchtime period on Wednesday the 11th, volunteers from Winston’s Wish will be present to talk to customers about the childhood bereavement support services offered by the charity.

Renata Rees, Store Manager, explained: “Our team members are part of the local community and they are passionate about supporting the local causes that are important to our shoppers and neighbours. One initiative we have at Whole Foods is to donate 5% of our takings from a particular day to a charity.

I have heard a lot about Winston’s Wish from colleagues who have received support from their bereavement services, and we would like to support them in return through fundraising within our store.” Liz Thatcher, Community Fundraiser at Winston’s Wish, commented:” We were delighted to be selected for this opportunity and hope it will raise vital funds for our work with bereaved children. The staff at Whole Foods are really friendly and enthusiastic; they are also looking forward to wearing the letter ‘W’-themed fancy dress on the day”. Winston’s Wish wants to encourage people to pop along to the Tewkesbury Road store on Wednesday 11th June to try some of their healthy and organic produce.

Police Warning about ‘Courier Scam’ ZEPHYR which is the regional organised crime unit is warning about the threat of courier fraud. The fraudsters cold call on people, many of them

elderly. They then use a story, often pretending to be from the police or a bank to persuade victims to hand over bank details or even cash to a courier. In

Gloucestershire, in recent months, there have been several offences. One victim lost several thousand pounds in this kind of door scam.

GOT A NEWS STORY? Contact the news desk at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

Tesco sees middle classes deserting their aisles TESCO’S biggest thorn in their side right now is middle class customers deserting its aisles for cut-price competitors like Aldi and Lidl. After announcing a further fall in like-for-like sales this week the nationwide chain has been dealt another bad hand.

It’s reported that Aldi is just about to start selling the world’s most expensive beef at bargainbasement prices. In its latest move to keep its new breed of middle class customers happy, the German owned discount supermarket will offer wagyu beef (pictured) for around £25 a kilo, as opposed to the £100/kg it sells for in more upmarket shops. Beef from the Japanese cattle breed is marbled with fat which melts during cooking, giving a superior flavour and texture. Demand has grown so much, thanks to endorsement from chefs like the Hairy Bikers in their Asian Adventure series for the BBC, that

herds are being reared across the World, including in the UK.. Aldi’s version comes from New Zealand, and prices for an 8oz steak are around £6.99. Aldi’s sales are rising at 35.9% per year, with Lidl posting a 22.7% rise. In contrast, at Tesco, sales are 3.1% down with Morrisons is 3.9% down and Sainsbury’s posted a 0.9% rise.

Pigeons being auctioned for mayor’s charities AFTER directing tourists and locals through Cheltenham town centre for many years, the pigeons from the old pedestrian signage will be auctioned off to raise money for the three mayor’s charities. From last Monday 2 June, until Monday 16 June, the mayor will be accepting bids for the 11 pigeons, with a minimum bid starting at £20 per pigeon. Hester’s Way Neighbourhood Project, Cheltenham Animal Shelter and Victim Support will all benefit as the auction is expected to see interest from locals wanting a piece of Cheltenham’s history. The old pedestrian signage will make way for an exciting new signage project which will be introduced to the town over the coming weeks. The

new ‘wayfinding’ project will have finger-post signage and simple maps with clear graphics to help give clearer direction to those unfamiliar with the town. As well as showing pedestrian routes, the mapping will also identify bus and strategic cycle routes.

Wendy Flynn, mayor of Cheltenham, said: “Rather than being locked away or melted down, the public now have an opportunity to buy a piece of Cheltenham’s history as well as supporting the three mayor’s charities.” Bids will be received through the mayor’s email address: Mayor@cheltenham.gov.uk or through post to the mayor’s PA: Jennie Ingram, Cheltenham Borough Council, PO Box 12, Municipal Offices, GL50 1PP.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 JUNE 2014

BUSINESS EditorsDESK

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T’S FESTIVALS SEASON AGAIN and Cheltenham for a number of months turns into a maelstrom of events, showcasing everything from jazz through to science, food, classical music and literature. If you like festivals you’re in for a real treat and blast on the senses that will perhaps leave you empowered and satiated with the knowledge and entertainment you were seeking. There’s no doubt that all the festivals bring a plethora of new visitors to the town who lash around the cash in our pubs and restaurants, bolstering the town’s economy. All very well and good. But there is sinister side to the festivals that doesn’t get highlighted that’s the focused on the unfortunate residents whose properties surround both Imperial Gardens and Montpellier Gardens. Its no secret that most of these residents are mightily hacked-off with the ever- present (or so it seems) festivals taking over their green spaces right in front of their very houses. Is it just me or don’t we pay council tax for the use of these park/spaces. And that being the case are we being temporarily denied of this use? And did anybody ask them (the council tax paying residents) I wonder? It may also be that they didn’t even get a vote in any decision making process about the number of shows and the frequency. I would hate to think its one law for businesses in this town and one law for local inhabitants. There’s no doubt that there’s a very strong link between Cheltenham Festivals and The Borough Council. Who is sanctioning what I wonder? It seems to me and on talking with a number of residents that there has never been any consultation process about this.

Don’t get me wrong I love the festivals and what they bring to the town, but I don’t think we are taking the residents who actually have to live with this into the equation at all. You see its all about who benefits. I wonder what the boss of Cheltenham Festivals would be saying if he/she had to live right opposite Montpellier Gardens? Long may the festivals in Cheltenham flourish, but at what cost to the locals?

Cheltenham Racecourse

Building work at racecourse on track

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HE building work of the new £45million grandstand at Cheltenham racecourse is progressing well with all the previous buildings (the tote terrace and final A building) having been removed straight after this year’s Festival. The work, which is being undertaken by the Central office of Kier, is on track, with a couple of months of piling to take place, to cement the foundations of the new building and the other areas involved in the development. It

is after this that the main grandstand structure will start to be built, with a crane being installed in mid-July to work on the five-floored building.

The racecourse continues to be a working site, hosting a number of conferences and events during the summer and certain areas of the project will be complete in time for the start of the racing season in October. The weighing room refurbishment, the widening of the bridges to Southam Lane, to ease

traffic flow around the major racedays and the See You Then Bar will all be ready in the autumn. The horsewalk, used to access the course from the paddock, is being repositioned to allow the grandstand to fit into the allocated space, at the end of the existing grandstand and a bridge is being placed over this, to help with crowd movement around the racecourse. Both of these we are informed will also be ready in the autumn.

Grant from St. James’s Place Foundation for Winston’s Wish Winston’s Wish, the charity for bereaved children was absolutely delighted to be able to announce that the St. James’s Place Foundation has pledged its support

Eric Barton, Editor

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THE charitable arm of the St. James's Place Wealth Management Group will generously fund the overall costs of a Winston’s Wish Family Services Practitioner for three years to the tune of £85,000. The Family Services Practitioner is at the frontline of service delivery for Winston’s Wish; travelling to a bereaved family’s home for face to face support, bringing children together for support groups, running outdoor challenge and support weekends, and manning the Winston’s Wish national Helpline. Each year the charity supports over 30,000 bereaved children and young people through an array of dedicated services and in depth support programmes following death as a result of accident, illness, murder, manslaughter, suicide and also through military service.

Unsupported grief can have many damaging effects for a child later in life including mental health issues, behavioural difficulties, relationship breakdown, academic underachievement and anti-social behaviour.

The grant provided by the St. James’’s Place Foundation will go a long way to ensuring that bereaved children have the support and guidance they need to rebuild their

lives and move forward to a happy and fulfilling future.

Fiona Talwar-Lomberg, CEO of Winston’s Wish commented, “We are extremely grateful to the St. James’’s Place Foundation for their very generous support. The death of a parent, brother or sister is one of the most fundamental losses that any child will ever face during their lifetime. The Practitioner fund will directly support over 100 bereaved children and their families in the UK each year.” Based in Cirencester, the St. James’s Place Foundation is a grant-making charity with a difference.

The vast majority of funds raised come from fundraising or generous donations made by its representatives and employees. These funds are then matched pound for pound by the company. Over the last 22 years, the St. James’’s Place community has raised and distributed in excess of £34 million to good causes. Steve Jones, St. James’’s Place Wealth Management, added, “We are delighted to be able to offer funding for such a vital role.

It is very satisfying to know that the monies raised will be making a significant difference to the lives of children and young people”.

5 JUNE 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

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BUSINESS CHALKTALK

Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Cheltenham gets vocal....

Neighbours, but rivals

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HERE’S always been a healthy rivalry between Cheltenham and our near neighbours, Gloucester. Make no bones about it; the city has done well in the last few years. Thanks to the vision and hard work of their local MP Richard Graham and the City Council, Gloucester is on a massive regeneration journey. But despite their success in attracting investment, there are areas where Cheltenham has a clear edge. Look no further than The Times Science Festival which is in full swing. It is internationally acclaimed and attracts brilliant brains to Cheltenham like a superconducting electromagnet. The free Discover and Explore Zones are a huge hit with children, and Famelab has unearthed some great scientific communicators, able to inspire across the generations.

It’s never been more important to foster scientific excellent in the UK. If we are to succeed in the global race and provide employment for future generations, we need to make ours among the most dynamic, innovative and technologically advanced economies in the world. So, how does the UK rank in global league tables for science and innovation? Remarkably well. According to the Global Innovation Index, the UK comes third worldwide for innovation capabilities and results. We rank first in the OECD for the proportion of R&D funded from abroad. There are some everyday reminders of British leadership in science. Take vehicle technology, for example. In Formula 1 (a passion of mine) eight of the eleven teams competing at the pinnacle of motoring technology are based in the UK. In the world of software, Silicon Roundabout in London is steadily establishing itself

as a rival to Silicon Valley in California. Closer to home, I have visited some hi-tech companies here in Gloucestershire such as MessierDowty (aircraft landing gear) and Trio Motion (motion control technology).

Both are out-and-out world beaters.

We should be very proud of them.

Education is key to driving this further. Exam board figures show a steep rise in the number of students of both sexes taking AS level physics, up from 36,258 in 2006 to 61,176 last year. But the figures show that physics loses more students than most other subjects after AS level. Girls are far more likely than boys to drop the subject, despite, on average, achieving a quarter grade higher. By A2, the second year of A level, only a fifth of physics students are female.

Addressing that is essential. I also think we can do more locally in Cheltenham. I’m not suggesting we build a Large Hadron Collider around the outskirts of the town. Mind you, smashing together particles at extreme speeds under the council offices is occasionally tempting. But I believe we can build further on the natural assets that we have. In the science field alone Cheltenham has GCHQ, as well as Science Festival. I believe we need to start thinking about the viability of a well-developed science/ICT hub, where we can use this unique expertise on our doorstep to nurture local businesses. Now that would get them talking in Gloucester.

Gloucester Rugby to unveil best ever financial results Success on the field evaded Gloucester Rugby this past season but they are just about to unveil their best ever set of financial results STEPHEN Vaughan, Chief Executive, Gloucester Rugby made the revelation to a room full of Gloucestershire’s business leaders, many of whom are club sponsors or partners and already help to drive its commercial success.

It was great news for the business side of Gloucester Rugby, said Mr Vaughan, stressing how acutely Stephen Vaughan aware he was that results on the field were how most of its loyal customers would be judging the club’s performance.

“As a business we are going to have our most successful year ever in the history of the club.

“As a club it has been a tough season on the field and we have had to make some tough decisions off it too. But they are difficult decisions that have to be made to take the business forward,” said Mr Vaughan who was formerly the managing director of Thomas Cook London 2012, where he led the travel company's involvement with the Olympic Games. The season ended for Gloucester with a disappointing loss to arch rivals Worcester which saw the team finish ninth in the Aviva Premiership having won just eight of its 22 games. The Worcester result heralded the departure of director of rugby Nigel Davies who was sacked with immediate effect. It’s a decision Gloucester hope will help to draw a line under a season that promised so much and delivered so little. The last financial report stated the team, "has the potential to compete very strongly in the Premiership".

When this year’s results are revealed this summer it will see the club achieve four years of straight profit growth. Bringing in the right replacement for Mr Davies and the right signings was now crucial, said Mr Vaughan. “We are covering some

considerable ground and having some exciting conversations,” he said. He added: “The core revenue has not grown in that season tickets, bar sales, merchandise remain stagnant. We have bought in a new sponsor, ADEY Professional Heating Solutions together with 11 new commercial partners.

They are helping us not just financially but also in engaging with the community.

“They are adding to our bottom line and enabling us to invest in the playing department.

What we all want is a successful team. “I know and appreciate championing good financial results will not sit well with all our supporters, but if we are to compete as a top four side, which is our mission statement, we need to achieve this. “We are not a Bath or a Saracens who have a rich sugar daddy willing to lose £4m or £6m a year.

We have the best supporters in rugby. I know people say to that ‘what about Leicester? they get 20,000 a game’. They have had a sustained level of success, and you have to say we have not…yet.” “The senior management is not about short term fix. It is about long-term leadership structure, about the academy about developing plays, about the whole “fix”. It is important for us to get that right.”

(Saracens declared an operating loss of £5.9m for season 2012/13. Bath’s balance sheet shows the club lost £3.8m in 2012/13 which was 35 per cent up from a deficit of £2.8m the previous year). While the club was essentially just a “venue for hire operation” for next year’s Rugby World Cup it hoped to benefit from improvements to the ground. Plans were afoot, he said, to add a “kids engagement area” in front of the famous Shed stand and extra children’s capacity elsewhere in the ground.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 JUNE 2014

Gloucestershire businesses pledge support for our armed forces Standing: Suzanne Hall-Gibbins – C2S; Kevin Gani – Renishaw; Andrew Merrell – Local World; Paul Bates – Cheltenham Standard; John Search – JS Facilities; Jennifer Lilly – Hire a Hero; Richard Muller – Prima Dental; Angie Petkovic – APT Marketing; Angela Edwards – C2S; Lee Hibbert – TTC; Chris McCormick – C&P Food Services; Stephen Vaughan – Gloucester Rugby; Seated: Paul Halfpenny – Britannia Construction; Alan Beresford – Omega Resource; Martyn Smith – Converge Networks; Paul Bence – George Bence; Karl Goodwin – Creed Foodservice Others that have signed up but were not present include: Markey Group; ILEC; Premiere Products; BPE; Versarien; Fluid Transfer; Commercial Group.

So 22 in all within one week of asking people.

We would like to get the 100!

USINESS Leaders from across Gloucestershire came together at Kingsholm to make a public pledge to support armed forces personnel. The companies signed the governments Corporate Covenant which is a voluntary pledge that states a company is committing to honour the Armed forces Covenant and support the Armed forces Community. It states that the company recognises the value serving Personnel, both Regular and Reservists, Veterans and military families contribute to our business and our country. Over 20 companies made the pledge and Circle2Success Director Suzanne Hall-Gibbins said, ‘we were made aware of the Corporate Covenant when we started to work with the charity Hire a Hero. Military personnel look at the pledges and it is critical to have more companies make visible their commitment.

Most of our members already do a huge amount and this was an opportunity to make their commitment visible. Just over 100 pledges are on the MOD website we think that with Gloucestershire’s military heritage we could take a lead nationally and at least double that number’. Lee Hibbert Managing Director, TTC said, ‘ I am ex-military myself and know the difficulties some ex-military people have in transitioning into the civilian world of work. It’s the SME community particularly that will provide jobs for these people and the skills they bring can add huge value to any business. The Covenant is a great way to make visible that we are open to applications and to working with military organisations’. To find out more please contact Suzanne Hall-Gibbins by emailing: suzanne.hall-gibbins@circle2success.co.uk or phone 07971148787

B

Circle to Success members

Cotswold Style

Be part of C2S and make the best connections to grow Gloucestershire businesses.

To find out more about how we can work together contact: Suzanne Hall-Gibbins Mob: 07971148787 or Email: suzanne.hall-gibbins@circle2success.co.uk

‘Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together’ – James Cash Penney (JCPenney Inc)

5 JUNE 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

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BUSINESS Local business ‘Impulse Purchase’ visits Number 10 STEWART Rose, Cheltenham based business owner joined other small businesses at Number 10 in May 2014, to share their views about ‘small business support’ with the Government. Stewart Rose is founder and director of Impulse Purchase Limited based on Bayshill Road,

Cheltenham. The company has been trading since 2009, manufacturing and selling quality wine related gifts including giant champagne and wine corks and wine journals. Stewart Rose was one of 10 small business owners selected by Enterprise Nation which is a company that helps

thousands of people in the UK turn their 'good ideas into great businesses'. The meeting was a round table discussion with Daniel Korski, Special Adviser to the PM whereby businesses could share their real world challenges faced day-to-day, as well as looking at what the government could do to encourage more businesses to go global. Each business owner had the opportunity to talk about his or her company and then contribute towards a positive discussion with constructive ideas.

Stewart Rose, Impulse Purchase Limited said, “I was honoured to be invited to a meeting at Number 10 Downing Street. Impulse Purchase Limited has been working very hard on developing a global online presence with their quirky product design and its great to get this recognition. As a result of meeting, we have access to various development programmes that we hope will continue the growth of the business and our brands. I offered an open invite to the Prime Minister to visit our offices in Cheltenham and I eagerly await his reply’’.

Positive sales in South West POSITIVE sales results look to have motivated a recruitment drive and an appetite for investment among small to medium sized (SME) manufacturers in the South West, according to the latest Barometer from the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS).

Over half (59 per cent) of businesses report sales growth in the last six months, which is a rise of five per cent from the same time last year. This

seems to have had a positive influence on recruitment plans, as almost half (49 per cent) of respondents indicate they plan to engage more staff. Manufacturers' confidence is also growing, with 44 per cent of the companies questioned stating they intend to invest in developing new technologies, which is the highest number recorded when measured against the same period in previous years. Simon

Howes, MAS Area Director for South West England, said: “Our survey suggests that the region's SME manufacturers are more than playing their part in helping to create a strong base for the country's economic recovery. While there are still challenges ahead as businesses strive to provide value and quality while managing an increasing cost base, it is important that we give recognition to the strength

of the sector here in the South West.”Business Minister Michael Fallon said: “Britain's manufacturers are helping drive the UK economic recovery.

Through our industrial strategy and economic plan, the Government will continue to work closely with this vital sector to ensure that confidence stays high, creating more highly-skilled jobs and a stronger economy for everyone.”

Cheltenham Borough Council re-elects Councillor Steve Jordan as its leader at the selection meeting this week THERE has only been one change to Cabinet with Cllr Chris Coleman replacing Cllr Roger Whyborn. Some of the content and titles of portfolios have been revised to allow for the changing structure of the council.

Councillor Jordan continues to take the strategic lead for policy, economic development and strategic land use at the council. Councillor Jordan, says: “Cabinet collectively decides the policy and direction for the council. I would like to thank Roger Whyborn who is stepping down for all his hard work. I am confident that we will be a strong team and make a positive difference in Cheltenham.’’

The Liberal Democrat cabinet will tackle some key issues for Cheltenham, including: • Continuing to progress plans to regenerate and improve the town centre.

• Ensure retention of an extensive Green Belt, providing a substantial ‘buffer’ of green space to separate Cheltenham, Gloucester and Bishops Cleeve.

• Increasing the range of waste materials that can be recycled.

• To promote clean energy sources such as photovoltaic in its own properties and in the wider community.

• To invest directly in new affordable housing, and by insisting that private developers play their part in delivering affordable homes.

• To help local residents improve their own neighbourhoods and work with the police to reduce anti-social behaviour.

• Continue to work in partnership to make council services more efficient and keep costs down.

The interim Conservative group leader is Councillor Duncan Smith and Councillor Malcolm Stennett will lead the People Against Bureaucracy group.

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 JUNE 2014

5 JUNE 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

13

QUIRKY NEWS

Something a bit different...

Drunk Japanese turned into living advert DRUNK Japanese people are being turned into living adverts warning against the dangers of excess alcohol in a campaign sponsored by a local bar. Excessive drinking at the weekends in particular is a big problem in Japan as people head out to bars to let off steam after a stressful week. Coupled with the fact that many Asian people have a low alcohol tolerance, it means that by the early hours of the morning there are often many people passed out at various places around the city. Now in the Japanese capital Tokyo staff from the Yaocho Bar Group had been heading out in the early hours of the morning looking for the completely intoxicated. Once they have spotted

YOUR WEEKLY HOROSCOPES ARIES (March 20 – April 18): Today you wake up and smell the coffee. Reality checks can be bitter, but they’re worth it if they get you up and going.

TAURUS (April 19 – May 19): IThere are times when it pays to be born under the zodiac sign of the immoveable object.

Make yourself comfortable. Nothing moves forward without your say-so.

someone, the staff frame them with duct tape and put slogans near their bodies warning against the dangers of drinking too much such as the word nomisugi, which means “drank too much’. The bar group said that while many people tolerated it as a way of letting off steam it was also actually a serious problem. Those who drink too much risk physical injury either from the alcohol itself or from hurting themselves while moving around while drunk, the group said. They might also end up either being robbed or mugged. Once the posters are completed the group encourage people to photograph them and share the pictures on social networking sites with the hashtag #nomisugi in order to make people think again about how they deal with alcohol. A spokesman for the bar said: “Japanese people have a great sense of honour, and this is also a way of shaming them into changing the way they deal with alcohol.”

Chinese woman strips to defy stalker A WOMAN being followed by a man on a motorbike in China discovered a unique way to get rid of her stalker – by stripping off her clothes. People who witnessed the incident were initially baffled by her motives, but it did the trick as the unwanted visitor was embarrassed away before the police turned up in Dongguan city, Guangdong province. Wang ChenLai, an eyewitness, said: “The woman appeared to be agitated by a man following her on a motorbike. There is a stage in a square where concerts and plays are held. She went on the stage and took off her clothes to lie down naked, and then the man left. “It seems she tried to shock her pursuer into leaving her alone. She said ‘Is this what you wanted to see? Have a good look’. It certainly worked.” When police arrived she calmed down and told them: “This is not a protest or an act of exhibitionism. A guy was following me around and I didn’t know what else to do. I thought if I could shock him he would back off. That is the only reason I did this.” A police spokesman said: “Normally an act of this kind would be punishable with a fine but on this case, as she got dressed when officers arrived, we took no further action.”

Swiss OAP’s rob churches for fun AN ELDERLY Swiss couple in the canton of Lucerne have been stealing the money from church collection boxes apparently out of boredom, report the BBC. The married couple, aged 70 and 73, have allegedly stolen hundreds of Swiss francs from several churches since November

2013, prosecutors in Lucerne say.

According to them, the husband kept watch outside, while his wife emptied the boxes. The couple, who are reported to be relatively well-off, say one of their motives for the robberies was the adrenaline rush they got from “the pleasure of the

forbidden”, local media report. They have now been arrested and an investigation has been launched.

According to the World Bank, Switzerland is one of the top five richest countries in the world, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita of almost $79,000 (£47,000).

GEMINI (May 20 – June 20): An unexpected setback leads to a hidden opportunity. It’s discoveries like these that prove that there’s a higher intelligence at work in your life.

CANCER (June 21 – July 21): Your insecurities make it hard for a superior to give constructive criticism. The intent isn’t to make you feel bad; it’s to help you to do better.

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LIBRA (Sept 22 – Oct 22): You can weigh the pros and cons all you like, but you won’t know how things will turn out unless you explore a new path. Embrace the spirit of adventure.

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SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21): You hate putting the kibosh on a loved one’s plans but this endeavor isn’t going anywhere fast.

Let him/her down softly.

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 20): Be careful about divulging too much. Someone you take into your confidence today may have ulterior motives.

PISCES (Feb 18 – March 19): If someone doesn’t want to disclose what’s going on, then leave it alone. He may be saving you from knowing something you shouldn’t.

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VIRGO (Aug 22 – Sept 21): Review your paperwork. Buried in all of those riders and disclosures lies the key to turning the tables on your current situation.

AQUARIUS (Jan 19 – Feb 17): Don’t assume anything’s a done deal. You’ll be meeting with lots of “interested” parties but only one or two are serious.

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LEO (July 22 – Aug 21): You start the day with a green light but you’ll be stopped dead in your tracks by noon. Obviously one party didn’t talk to the other. Let them hash out their differences.

CAPRICORN (Dec 21 – Jan 18): Be careful about divulging too much. Someone you take into your confidence today may have ulterior motives.

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ANSWERS TO LAST WEEK’S CROSSWORD: Across: 1. Mansion 5. Facts 8. Gains 9. Macabre 10. Avenged 11. Train 12. Enmity 14. Adhere 18. Allow 20. Earnest 22. Animals 23. Dogma 24. Shelf 25. Dessert Down: 1. Magnate 2. Noise 3. Insight 4. Nomads 5. Facet 6. Cabbage 7. Stern 13. Malaise 15. Derides 16. Extract 17. Ceased 18. Amass 19. Wharf 21. Eagle

Weekly Crossword ACROSS

DOWN

1. Bank employee, who can say (6) 4. Balance found in muesli bran (5) 9. Crumbling old places fell down (9) 10. Not as old as that confused Reno guy (7) 11. Plenty of land in tarmac resort (5) 12. Opposed to poetry (6) 14. Purloins duck between beginning and end of shifts (6) 17. Last letter in some game (5) 19. Tolerates some token duress (7) 21. Alter code when moved (9) 23. One of the Earps, sounds interrogative at first (5) 24. Shuffle a paper then come into view (6)

1. Sum up tall youth, essentially (5) 2. Let cure become a lesson (7) 3. Find a fish in a wee lake (3) 5. Begins tantrum in a moment (7) 6. Palindrome instrument (5) 7. Found in large scale drama crowd (5) 8. Hesitates to use spa turbulence (6) 12. Committee on a ship (6) 13. Evidence of injury, allow for redness (7) 15. Shorten a river crossing (7) 16. Serenity, sounds like part of something greater (5) 18. Nobleman with ponytail is before his time (5) 20. Grasp earnest weapon, essentially (5) 22. High point found in octopus (3)

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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 5 JUNE 2014

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5 JUNE 2014 CHELTENHAM STANDARD

15

QUIRKY NEWS

Something a bit different...

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

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HERE is one and one date only I’m clearing in my calendar this month and that is Saturday 14th June for the grand opening of Cheltenham’s very first lap dancing club, Fantasy. It was announced late last year that Voodoo (a nightclub which has never done particularly well), located on Bath Road in town was seeking permission to be transformed into a gentleman’s club. Of course the plans were greeted with much opposition. The residents cried loudest with 196 objections being lodged. Criticism even came from our own Liberal Democrat MP, Martin nobody-cares Horwood

who commented, “If people are uncomfortable with this kind of venue and they will have to avoid it, then it is a public nuisance. As I result I cannot support it.” Sorry Martin but can you clarify how the residents there will be inconvenienced to ‘have to avoid it’? I should’ve checked with the owners of the club for the purposes of this column but I’m almost certain that the lap dancing will be happening inside the building and not outside on the pavement. The grumbler went on to say, “It should not be tolerated.”

“We all put up with quite a lot of nuisance during race week, but that brings a huge benefit to the town for a short period of a time. A permanent venue would be

quite different.” I’m not quite sure Martin knows what he wants. He’s very happy to collect the tax during race week but outside of this week it absolutely should not be tolerated. I’m very confused to why a man who cannot support a lap dancing club would even endorse its existence in our town even in one week of every year.

Aside from these groanings the club was ultimately given the green light to let the big-busted-

babes come and do their thing in February of this year by the good time folks at the Cheltenham Borough Council. On hearing the news I of course opened up my own house to my neighbourhood and hosted an all out pool party. My pool was turned into a Playboy style orgy where girls dressed in jungle animal themed bikinis served canapés, champagne and on the hour

would give one lucky neighbour their own type of lap dance underneath my 10ft waterfall. To whomever runs ‘Fantasy’, on opening night I expect VIP queue jump, a private booth and to sample a lap dance from at least four of your finest ladies ( just so I can appreciate your full catalogue for review purposes). I am fully in support of your opening and will publish wherever I can about how amazing

your existence in Cheltenham is. To the residents in Cheltenham who oppose it I have this message for you – simply don’t step inside the club. I know you will struggle, after all even our MP seems to believe you will have to ‘avoid’ it, but I have faith in you all. When you’re walking back from House of Fraser and you’re passing the new Fantasy to get back inside your three-storey home, just hold your head up high and look straight on. Don’t look left. Look straight. I have absolute faith that you can get through this. Meanwhile, I better head out and get some more aftershave.

Gotta keep Candice happy on opening night.

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

Oxford Street octopus chaos Goat on a A GIANT octopus has blocked roads and caused traffic chaos during the morning rush hour in Britain's busiest shopping district. Bemused commuters snapped pictures of the polystyrene beast, which was on the back of a lorry which broke down in the middle of the diagonal crossing at the Oxford Circus junction.

Transport for London (TfL) tweeted a picture of the eightlegged obstruction just after 9am, saying: “A lorry carrying an octopus has broken down at Oxford Circus. Approach with care.” Later, TfL confirmed the lorry had been moved and was blocking a lane on Regent Street. The octopus caused traffic jams

around Oxford Street, one of London's most popular tourist destinations, with more than 200 million visitors per year. The lorry’s owner – transport company Roman Self Drive – also took

Cheltenham Showroom: Unit 800 Ashville Business Park, (Behind Mercedes Benz), Commerce Road, Cheltenham Road East, Staverton, Glos GL2 9QJ Tel: 01452 554 455

to Twitter and said: “He’s no Paul the Octopus, but he's been causing ripples with the London traffic.” The company said it thought the creature was part of a World Cup related publicity stunt by a

betting company. The driver Ala Miah told Sky News he had been hired to take the octopus from Peckham to Hammersmith. He said the location of the breakdown was an unfortunate coincidence and he had managed to restart the lorry and carry on with his journey.

He told Sky: “Would I stop the lorry at 8.10am in the middle of Oxford Circus? Are you joking? “The engine just cut out and then while I was waiting for my breakdown guys to arrive I tried the key in the ignition after 20 minutes and got it going again. “I'm really sorry to anyone who was inconvenienced this morning.”

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motorcycle A GOAT has been caught on camera in Iran wearing a crash helmet while riding on a motorcycle.A video uploaded to YouTube, filmed in Qazvin, Iran, shows the goat sitting on the lap of the rider. His passenger was also holding a goat but this one wasn't wearing protection - nor were either of the men. It comes just days after another viral video showed a goat clinging to a cyclist's back in Adddis Ababa, Ethiopia. That animal was said to be on its way to the slaughterhouse but the new video appears to have a happier ending for the animal. "Take it easy guys... just bunch of farmers having fun," the information section of the LiveLeak video said. "But, what's with giving the animal a helmet? Must be something special about that one."

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CULTURE Black Coffee with a local flavour comes to The Everyman Household TV stars roll into Cheltenham with a real belter of a ‘who-dunnit’?... it can only be Hercule Poirot!

JASON Durr heads the cast of Black Coffee to play the famous Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot. Jason is probably best known for playing PC Mike Bradley in Heartbeat but has many TV credits to his name, including Midsomer Murders, Lewis, New Tricks and the Lynda La Plante drama; Above Suspicion. Liza Goddard, star of such TV hits as Bergerac and the long-running Give Us A Clue, Gary Mavers, best known for playing heart-throb doctor Andrew Attwood in Peak Practice and Ben Nealon, best loved for his role as Captain Forsythe in

the ITV drama Soldier Soldier, also star in this murder mystery who-dunnit.

A quintessential English country estate is thrown into chaos following the murder of eccentric inventor Sir Claud Amory and the theft of his new earth shattering formula.

Arriving at the Estate moments too late, one man immediately senses a potent brew of despair, treachery and deception amid the estate’s occupants. That man is Hercule Poirot. In the first play ever written by Agatha Christie the audience are introduced to a character who went on to become the

most famous detective of all time and the only fictional character ever to receive a fullpage obituary in the New York Times. With Robin McCallum as Captain Hastings and Eric Carte as Chief Inspector Japp.

Performances and tickets: Monday 9th – Saturday 14th June Evenings: Mon – Sat 7.45pm Matinees: Thu & Sat 2pm Tickets: £15 – £30 available from the Box Office on 01242 572573 or online at www.everymantheatre.org.uk

Unique photography at The Wilson

Local author leads crime novel Game A strong opening is integral...

Tom Richell on EV Seymour’s latest thriller WHENEVER I read a book I need the first sentence to grab me. If it doesn't then I’ll be setting down my Kindle faster than a bullet out of a gun. I am happy to report then that EV Seymour’s new offering Game Over, second of the Hex series, is not the sort of book that you will want to set down. ‘As soon as the lights went out I knew I was in trouble’, if there is a more thrilling opening to a book, I’m yet to read it.

Now that opening is a little deceptive, but I’ll leave that to you to find out for yourselves. Game Over follows the protagonist ‘Hex’, a hit man turned property developer, as he battles not to revert to his old ways.

According to the author he “falls prey to the law of unintended consequences”. EV Seymour who lives in Cheltenham has in fact set her last two books in the town, not the most likely of settings for a crime

novel but apparently provides an excellent backdrop. EV Seymour commented, ‘’Due to the presence of features such as GCHQ “Cheltenham plays straight into my interest in the security services”. She describes her roots as ‘urban’ so finds setting her plots in towns and cities “more stimulating as a writer”. So what areas of the urban jungle that is Cheltenham inspire Seymour? She goes on to say,“Bars and restaurants get a fair showing because my characters often need to meet to exchange information” “The ‘Devil’s Chimney’ on Leckhampton Hill also had a little extra Seymour treatment”. It looks as if the ‘Seymour treatment’ may expand beyond the Leckhampton Hill quarry as she hopes to “put Cheltenham on the literary crime map” Seymour writes under the male

pseudonym ‘Adam Chase’. She also said, “Rightly or wrongly, there is a perception that a woman cannot write convincingly and authentically about guns, weapons, biological, or otherwise, explosions, flying in helicopters, tearing off on motorbikes and security service issues"“ She finally added, ‘’I reckoned, that if I couldn’t beat my male counterparts, I’d join them”. You can buy the book in an array of bookstores and also online on Amazon.

THE Wilson, Cheltenham’s art gallery and museum, will host a unique photography display in its foyer from this Saturday 7 June to 20 July this year. The display, by the artist Marksteen Adamson, will explore issues relating to homelessness, addiction and the complexity around ‘giving’. This art project is the result of a two year working relationship between artist Marksteen, and ‘Alan’ who is currently struggling with addiction and living on the streets of Cheltenham.

This project engages visitors by inviting them to contemplate three separate images of ‘Alan’, each representing a different state of mind. Marksteen Adamson commented, ‘’This study is a snapshot of a life in active addiction as lived by Alan, a homeless man in the streets of Cheltenham. Seen through the lens of my understanding I explore my own conflicting emotional responses to his plight and search for an answer that hopefully works for both of us. The journey isn’t over’’.

Visitors will have the opportunity to record their own responses to the work and the subject matter onto the reverse of each image. This project also aims to help people learn more about the themes represented, and also to better understand their own reactions to them. Collections & Engagement Manager at The Wilson, Stevie Edge-McKee said,“This is sure to be a thought-provoking display that I hope will promote conversation, interaction and reflection about issues affecting those experiencing homelessness. There are varying schools of thought about how best to donate money to people living on the street; it is my hope that this project will encourage people to explore some of these in greater depth and promote greater awareness about the different methods of support.”

THAT’LL BE THE DAY 6 – 7 June The nation’s favourite rock n’ roll variety show is back

BLACK COFFEE 9 – 14 June Bill Kenwright and the Agatha Christie Theatre Company present the dramatic debut of Hercule Poirot

BEYOND THE BARRICADE 8 June The biggest hits from the biggest musicals.

UNDER MILKWOOD 24 – 28 June Owen Teale (Game of Thrones) stars in the acclaimed adaptation of Dylan Thomas’ unforgettable poem

New Season BOOKING NOW! FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF EVENTS AND TO BOOK ONLINE VISIT OUR WEBSITE

01242 572 573 everymantheatre.org.uk

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PROPERTY&HOME Proper ty of the

Week Page 2 2

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£200,000 Lansdown Place

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call:01242 222292 online: www.kingsleyevans.co.uk email: info@kingsleyevans.co.uk David Evans Director in

PITTVILLE

£615,000

TEDDINGTON

£800,000

A STUNNING 3 BEDROOM APARTMENT WITH OWN COURTYARD GARDEN, OVERLOOKING THE PARK.

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO ACQUIRE A HANDSOME MANOR HOUSE.

A stunning apartment which has been renovated to the highest specification. The light and well proportioned accommodation comprises a large reception hall, drawing hall, dining room, Kitchen/breakfast room, master bedroom with en suite, bedroom two, bedroom three with wet room and a family bathroom. The courtyard garden is pretty and private, the apartment further benefits from off road parking and the use of the glorious communal gardens.

Teddington Manor is a stunning stone built residence believed to date back some 400 years, in this rural and charming location. The property offers well proportioned living space and retains beautiful period features throughout. The accommodation consists of a grand reception hall, a large drawing room, spacious dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, five large bedrooms on the first floor , family bathroom. Teddington Manor is sited within a generous plot of approx 0.65 acre and boasts pretty and established gardens with countryside views. The property further benefits from off road parking for several cars and a double garage.

THE PARK

CHARLTON KINGS

£1,395,000

AN IMPRESSIVE VICTORIAN VILLA, SITUATED IN ONE OF CHELTENHAM’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS ROADS. Park Lawn is an impressive and substantial Grade 11 listed villa. The property occupies a prominent position on The Park. The accommodation is set out over four floors. On the lower ground ground floor is a large kitchen/breakfast room along with bedroom eight. Stunning reception rooms on the raised ground floor.

Three generous double bedrooms and a single on the first floor, served be an en suite to the master and further shower room and three double rooms on the top floor. Park lawn benefits from pretty gardens to the front and side, an outdoor swimming pool, along with a detached garage and parking for several cars.

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£725,000

A CHARMING AND VERSATILE BUNGALOW WITH A SEPARATE ONE BEDROOM ANNEXE, IN THIS SOUGHT AFTER AREA. A unique opportunity to acquire a bungalow with flexible accommodation within strolling distance of Charlton kings. This interesting home is steeped in history and occupies a private position, sited in a large plot, set well back from the road.

Modernised over the years to provide beautifully proportioned living to include a large drawing room, kitchen/dining room, master bedroom with en suite, two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Of notable interest is a one bedroom annexe with sitting room, kitchen and bathroom. Over the years it has provided a rental income, but also lends itself to a whole host of other opportunities. Sited in a generous plot, which too offers potential scope.

visit: 115 The Promenade, Cheltenham, Gloucester, GL50 1NW

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Guide Prices from ÂŁ350,000

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3 Bedroom Semi-detached House For Sale | Lower Slopes Of Battledown

These fantastic homes are stylish, well proportioned, light and airy. The show home offers entrance hall, cloakroom, utility room and open plan living accommodation on the ground floor. The open plan area within the show home offers wood effect laminate flooring, Oak work tops, Oak breakfast bar, a range of white gloss, soft closing units including spice drawers, under cabinet LED lighting and fully fitted kitchen appliances. The open Sitting / Dining area offers bi-fold doors out to a well presented decked area leading to a lawned rear garden. Upstairs offers three generous bedrooms, all with fitted wardrobes, the master bedroom also benefits from an ensuite shower room. There is also a family bathroom with separate shower cubicle.

There will be side access and the generous rear garden will be enclosed. All properties are offered with a 10 year NHBC warranty, two allocated parking spaces, double glazing and gas central heating. Hales Mead enjoys a high degree of privacy, being tucked away in a cul de sac and has views to Hills. Subject to reserving a plot, which is not yet complete, there will be a possibility of choosing different finishes including flooring and kitchens.

01242 500259

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Will your Property Manager still be around tomorrow?

Justin Lawrence M.A.R.L.A Associate Director/ Branch Manager Cheltenham since 2004

Lynne Wheately M.A.R.L.A Branch Manager Quedgeley since 2007

Tracey Fisher M.A.R.L.A Branch Manager Gloucester since 2004

Anne Horton M.A.R.L.A Branch Manager Tewkesbury since 2004

Tel: 01242 253325

Tel: 01452 380700

Tel: 01452 720071

Tel: 01684 850350

FOR LONGEVITY, EXPERTISE AND LOCAL KNOWLEDGE TRUST THE EXPERTS

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THE NEW F-TYPE COUPÉ.

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SPORT Hook enticed by promise of Gloucester fly-half spot James Hook says the prospect of playing regularly at fly-half persuaded him to make his decision to join Gloucester RUGBY UNION

T

HE 28-year-old expects to fill the gap left at Kingsholm by Leicesterbound Freddie Burns. Hook, who has 75 Wales caps, can also play at centre, full-back and even wing but his versatility has sometimes counted against him. “You want to play in one position consistently... it’s nice to go there in that position (flyhalf ),” he said. “Just being able to sign for Gloucester now and knowing the next three years is secure before I go away with Wales is great” “It’s been difficult because I can play four positions, and injuries will happen so I do get moved about. “It can be quite tough

but I’ve had quite a bit of experience of it now, you learn to deal with it really. “Some people say it can be a downfall, but it can be a blessing really just being involved in the squad all the time and playing regularly as well.” Hook agreed a four-year extension with Perpignan in 2013, but has activated a get-out clause after their relegation from France’s Top 14. He had also been wanted by his former side Ospreys, who he played with for five years before departing for France in July 2011, citing his desire to play regularly at fly-half as a major reason. Ospreys have Wales stand-off Dan Biggar as their current 10, who was voted this season’s Pro12 player of the year. “Yeah, I met the Ospreys. If it

wasn’t realistic, I probably wouldn’t have met them,” added Hook, who was a call-up to the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa. “But the timing wasn’t right to come back to Wales and the offer and opportunity to go to Gloucester was too good to turn down. “Having played there myself a few times for the Ospreys and Perpignan this season, and the fans and the signings they’ve made for next year, sometimes you’ve got a feeling, you know?

“I’m just really excited about it now.” Hook is part of the Wales squad that is set to depart for a two-Test tour to South Africa and he is relieved to have secured his future before departing. “Just being able to sign for

James Hook

Gloucester now and knowing the next three years is secure before I go away with Wales is great,” Hook said. “So it’s just looking for places to live now, but the hard bit is done really. “It’s just trying to get out there and get as much game time as I possibly can, and when I do get the game time just being consistent and accurate in everything I do.”

Raikkonen has “no excuses for slow start” MOTOR RACING

FERRARtechnical director James Allison believes Kimi Raikkonen has no excuses for his slow start to the season.

The expected duel between the two world champions so far failed to materialise, and instead has been one-sided in favour of Alonso. The Spaniard has out-qualified Raikkonen in four of the six races, and crucially has finished ahead of the Finn in every grand prix. In terms of the drivers' standings, Alonso is the best of the rest behind the runaway Mercedes pair of Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton, amassing 61 points to the 17 of Raikkonen who is languishing down in 12th place. Naturally, Alonso is now in his fifth season with Ferrari and so has full knowledge of how the team

functions, whereas Raikkonen is only in the first year of his return to the Maranello marque. The cars were, however, a clean slate given the radical regulations overhaul, with Raikkonen seemingly not adapting as well as Alonso. "I'm not sure it's entirely fair to say he is struggling more than Fernando," said Allison in assessing Raikkonen's form to date ahead of this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal. "They both have similar feedback with the car, and there are aspects of this year's rules that make the cars across the pitlane a far from easy aspect for the driver. "There is a lot more torque from the engine, a lot less aerodynamic grip, and the tyres are deliberately less aggressive than last year. "All that means they are quite a handful to drive, not too breezy for anyone, be that at

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the front or back of the grid.

"The problems Kimi has with the car under braking, downshifting, are the same as Fernando, and pretty much the same as being experienced by other drivers at other teams. "He's just going a little slower than

Fernando at the moment, but that gap is closing as the year progresses." Given the rules overhaul, Ferrari were naturally expecting to be in the hunt for this year's championships, but have been outclassed by Mercedes.

In his first full season with

the team as technical director after leaving Lotus in May last year and returning to Ferrari almost three months later, Allison appreciates the task at hand.

"It's tough. Making a car quick that wasn't quick in the first race is a particularly

challenging task," added Allison. "It's very difficult to produce a rate of improvement substantially different to the people we are fighting with. "However, we've had a race or two where the pieces we took to the track were useful, but not big steps forward. "We hope in the coming races to have a more steady progession of things we hope will lift us up in our competitiveness. "But we won't know for sure until we get there because it depends on what everyone else does. "I don't think we can claim to have produced a chassis that is, at the moment, the equal of either the Mercedes or the Red Bull. "We're not lagging hugely behind, but there is work for us to do before we can hold our hands up and say we are completely happy with the chassis performance."

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SPORT Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama secures victory at Memorial Tournament Hideki

GOLF

Matsuyama

J

APAN'S Hideki Matsuyama picked up his first win on the PGA Tour by beating Kevin Na in a play-off to take victory at the Memorial Tournament.

Na found the creek with his drive on the first play-off hole on the 18th.

Matsuyama's approach shot hit a spectator on the knee but he chipped on to the green and his par was enough to beat Na, who was on the green in four. Overnight leader

Bubba Watson missed the play-off by a shot with a final round of 72.

England's Paul Casey, who led at the halfway stage, finished six shots off the lead with Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy a shot further back.

Needing a birdie on the final hole to move level with clubhouse leader Na, who carded a round of 64, Matsuyama broke his driver when he hit the ground with frustration after his tee shot.

But the 22-year-old managed to make a three on the 18th to

finish with 69 and take the contest into extra holes. His previous best finish in the United States was a share of third place in the Frys.com Open in October last year.

Watson's round fell apart when he dropped a shot on the 14th and his tee shot on the 15th flew out of bounds into a neighbouring garden leading to a double bogey. He missed a birdie putt to pull level with the leading mark on the 17th and could not make the birdie he needed on the final hole.

Gloucestershire bowler Ian Saxelby forced to retire CRICKET

GLOUCESTERSHIRE bowler Ian Saxelby has been forced to retire after failing to recover from a knee injury.

The 25-year-old underwent an operation after suffering the injury against Surrey at the beginning of the season.

The surgery on his knee revealed the problem was worse than initially thought and the club said playing professionally was “no longer an option” for Saxelby. He took 109 wickets in 40 first-class appearances during his seven-year career in Bristol.”

It is extremely disappointing that I am

unable to continue along the path of professional cricket, but unfortunately my body is forcing me to hang up my boots,” he said. Saxelby made his County Championship debut for Gloucestershire in 2008 and became a regular feature in the side the following year.

However, a succession of injuries which included shoulder and back problems led to him missing the entire 2010 and 2013 seasons.

He returned to action this season, playing two first-team matches, before his injury troubles struck again. “After recovering from my shoulder surgery last season, I'm devastated by the seriousness of this

GOT A LOCAL SPORTS STORY?

WHO IS MATSUYAMA? • His previous five wins have all come in Japan.

• Finished sixth at the Open Championship at Muirfield last year.

• In March, Ian Poulter described him as an “idiot” for damaging a green and not repairing it at the WGCCadillac Championship in Doral, Florida. Matsuyama subsequently apologised to the Englishman.

Robins extend early bird ticket deal FOOTBALL

recent career-ending injury,” he continued. “I feel that I have given everything to the sport and I have thoroughly enjoyed the time I have spent in the game.” Director of cricket John Bracewell added: “He has been the consummate professional and proved to be a bowler beyond his years. He will be missed by the team and will be hard to replace.”

IAN SAXELBY STATS • First-class: 40 matches, 109 wickets, best bowling 6-48 • List A: 17 matches, 22 wickets, best bowling 4-31 • Twenty20: 20 matches, 23 wickets, best bowling 4-16

Contact the news desk at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk

CHELTENHAM Town have extended the early bird season ticket offer, despite passing the 900 mark by the original deadline. Robins fans who want to purchase a ticket at the reduced prices will have until tomorrow Friday, June 6 to secure their ticket. Chairman Paul Baker cited the half-term holidays as the reason for the extension, stating that he did not want people who were away last week to miss out. “It will give all those people that have just missed out and perhaps feel aggrieved at having missed out on the big savings a chance to come in and renew,” Baker said. “We have been really pleased with the sales to date. We are approaching 900 which is pretty good considering the disappointing season we have just had. “I do think that if we can give it another week then it will give those people who were on holidays during half term a chance. “I also feel a lot of people may have not been paid within that last week so by extending it just for another week should help.” Tickets can be purchased from the Whaddon Road ticket office, which will be open from 10am until 4pm Tuesday to Friday.

Supporters can also purchase tickets over the phone on 01242 573588.

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

SOCCER CAMP 21ST JULY-22ND AUGUST 2014

www.shaneduffsoccer.co.uk

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SPORT FOOTBALL

Cheltenham sign former Shrewsbury midfielder

Billy Twelvetrees

Gloucester centre unlikely to play this Saturday for England Billy Twelvetrees is England’s only outstanding injury concern heading into this Saturday’s first Test against New Zealand at Eden Park RUGBY UNION

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HE Gloucester centre has been sidelined for one month with an ankle problem and will miss training again on Monday, although head coach Stuart Lancaster insists he remains in the frame for selection. Fears over the fitness of hooker Rob Webber and prop Joe Marler have receded following their recovery from ankle and hip problems and the front rows are set to start the series opener against the All Blacks. Instead, it is Twelvetrees' troublesome ankle that is causing the biggest headache, with Lancaster set to name his team on Wednesday night. “Billy still

hasn't trained fully so we'll see how he progresses during the course of the week, but the clock is ticking now,” Lancaster said. “He's the major one, everyone else should be good to go.” Lancaster reported a clean bill of health on the Northampton and Saracens players involved in Saturday's Aviva Premiership final.

Number eight Billy Vunipola and fly-half Owen Farrell were suffering from cramp only and will reinforce the assault on the second and third Tests against the All Blacks when they arrive in New Zealand on Wednesday.

Lancaster was pleased with the performance of Northampton hooker Dylan Hartley, who completed his comeback from a

shoulder injury as a secondhalf replacement in the 24-20 victory over Saracens. “Dylan got on around 60 minutes and played the extra-time as well,” Lancaster said. “He seemed to come through fine and he'll definitely be on the plane as he's an experienced player for us. “As to whether Dylan will start the second Test, I'll make that decision after the first Test.” Several players and members of the management team visited Eden Park on Friday night to watch the Blues' 37-24 Super 15 victory over the Hurricanes.

Auckland is basking in unusually warm weather for winter, but threatening to dispel England's sunshine is

the fixture congestion and injury crises that means they will open their bid to complete a first series victory in New Zealand with an understrength team. Lancaster, however, is adamant he has the depth of playing resources to trouble the All Blacks even when missing some of his most valued performers. “We're confident of the players we have and the side we can put out,” he said. “The Premiership is a very competitive league and there are a lot of good players who get developed in that league, so we should be confident. “A lot of our players have played New Zealand twice and will be looking forward to the challenge on Saturday.”

CHELTENHAM have signed Asa Hall on a two-year deal while fellow midfielder Joe Hanks has agreed a new one-year contract at the League Two club.

Hall was released by Shrewsbury following their relegation from League One at the end of the season. The 27year-old joined the Shrews from Oxford in May 2012 but spent a year out on loan, first at Aldershot then back with the U's. Academy product Hanks, 19, made two first-team appearances last season. Fellow young midfielder Adam Powell, 18, has also signed professional deal with the Robins.

Speaking about Hall's arrival, manager Mark Yates told BBC Gloucestershire: “I really like Asa. It's taken me a few years to get him but I'm delighted we'll be working together.

“He's the type we're after. He's no bother and he's got high energy and a fair bit of quality. I think he'll get a few goals for us as well.” Hall started out in the Birmingham City academy set-up before joining Luton and then Oxford in August 2010. He has made 270 career appearances, scoring 37 goals.

CRICKET

Alex Blake’s 41 helped Kent beat Gloucestershire BATTLING at number six, Blake arrived with his side 63-4, and his 30ball knock steered Kent to 136-7.

Gloucestershire made a steady start to their run-chase but spinner Adam Riley's 4-22 put them in trouble. With the reliable Michael Klinger (25) and Hamish Marshall (26) dismissed, they were unable to recover and ended short on 115-9. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Kent's top order struggled to build on promising starts.

But 25-year-old Blake hit five fours and a six as he compiled his best T20 score. And once Riley had dented Gloucestershire with four consecutive wickets, Australia paceman Doug Bollinger snuffed out any chance of a late rally with 2-15.