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12 FEBRUARY 2015 ISSUE 30
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WELCOME TO PARKING HELL Parking tickets spotted in town centre by our reporter in just 30 minutes
By TODD HASLEWOOD FOR years the town has had its problems with traffic wardens, or as they’ve been newly branded, Civil Enforcement Officers. Traffic wardens have been prominent in Gloucestershire since 1960, and their job is to give a PCN (penalty charge notice) to anybody who hasn’t moved their vehicle in the allotted time.
Fast forward 55 years, and Civil Enforcement Officers patrol the streets with a certain level of zeal on the lookout for any offenders. But does Cheltenham actually have a congestion problem? And how is this affecting the town economically? Jim Daniels, parking manager at Gloucestershire County Council stated: “When people park sensibly, and don’t block spaces, there
is more parking available for residents and visitors to access local shops easily.” Interestingly over the past three years, Gloucestershire County Council have made an income of £900,608.82 solely from PCN’s. Where is this money going? Cheltenham’s Conservative candidate, Alex Chalk, has weighed into the debate by saying, “We shouldn’t pick on wardens who
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are doing a tough job. It’s the policy they are enforcing that needs to change. High charges in our off-street car parks are driving away business and heaping pressure onto Cheltenham’s hard pressed retailers.” Local heating engineer, Stuart White from Copper Top Heating and Plumbing also joined the fray
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
Cheltenham WeatherWatch THURSDAY 12th Feb Min 3ºC Max 4ºC FRIDAY 13th Feb Min 4ºC Max 8ºC SATURDAY 14th Feb Min 4ºC Max 8ºC SUNDAY 15th Feb Min 5ºC Max 9ºC MONDAY 16th Feb Min 2ºC Max 8ºC TUESDAY 17th Feb Min 3ºC Max 7ºC WEDNESDAY 18th Feb Min 6ºC Max 9ºC
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Half the workforce of fire-hit Dowty in Staverton redeployed ONE hundred members of staff at Dowty Propellers are to be rehoused at parent company GE Aviation's Bishops Cleeve site, near Cheltenham after it was ravaged by fire last week. The blaze began at about midnight last Wednesday (4th) in the roof space of Dowty's production facility at Staverton, where propeller systems for aircraft are made. Twenty-nine staff were evacuated from the site and led to safety. No-one at the time was reported as injured. Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service said 80% of the
factory building had been “severely damaged” by the blaze, which was tackled by 80 firefighters. A spokeswoman said 40 of the staff had now been already been moved and at least 60 others would be transferred by Thursday of this week. GE Aviation's Jennifer Villarreal said portable trailers had been brought in to the site to house some of the workforce. She added demolition of the damaged factory was “a few weeks away” and it was too early to discuss the rebuilding of the factory.
“We are focused on getting employees back to work and getting operations up and running,” she said. “We are exploring all possible options to meet the needs of the business and employees, including options in Gloucestershire.” She added structural engineers were still assessing the building. The Dowty Propellers site in
Staverton - which employs 250 workers - is separate to the Messier-Bugatti-Dowty factory nearby which designs and manufactures landing gear for aircraft. Its main production line, destroyed by the fire, makes propellers for the C130J Super Hercules and the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400.
Skills Minister showers Kohler Mira with praise PLANS to re-launch an apprenticeship scheme at one of Cheltenham’s biggest employers were given the nod of approval by the Skills Minister last week. Nick Boles MP, the Minister of State for Skills and Equalities, was in town to hear about Kohler Mira’s plans to restart their apprenticeship programme. The Cheltenham firm, which is based on Cromwell Road in Oakley and employs over 850 people in the town, first began taking on apprentices in the 1960s but has chosen 2015 as the year for a revamp. They are planning to take on
four new mechanical engineering apprentices in September this year and expect to continue growing the programme in the
Parking Hell CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
by saying, “We can’t park anywhere in and around the town centre without getting a £70 ticket for either dropping off keys or nipping in somewhere for five minutes to oversee a small job.” He went on to say,
“the traffic wardens just say we should leave the back of our vans opens to indicate we are dropping off. What a nonsense. This means we run the danger of having all our tools nicked. It’s ridiculous and it’s constantly costing us money all the time and strangling our business.’’ One member of the general public, Matthew Phillips, said:
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future. Mr Boles was impressed by the company’s plans and claimed it showed the Government’s policies on apprenticeships are paying off. He said: “I was delighted to visit Kohler Mira today and see their excellent facilities. Apprenticeships make a huge difference to the lives of our young people. I
would encourage every company in Cheltenham to take one on.” The visit was organised by the town’s Conservative MP hopeful, Alex Chalk, who was also keen to praise the Cheltenham firm. He said: “Kohler Mira are a World-beating firm and its excellent news that they are creating new apprenticeships here in Cheltenham. They will add to the 2,610 already created in Cheltenham since 2010. But if we want to keep generating opportunities for our young people we need to complete the job of a building a strong and successful economy.”
“Parking rates in town are astronomical, it’s no wonder shops are beginning to shut. The high-street needs leniency to survive.” It seems the war between the general public, tradesmen, politicians and Gloucestershire County Council is set to continue as they remain at loggerheads with one another.
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12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Ellenborough Park raises £8,150 for charity Battle of the Chefs contest sees Wales win Six Nations Culinary Challenge PHIL Vickery MBE, the former England and Gloucester rugby captain, presided over a charity auction that raised £8,150 for the Wooden Spoon children’s rugby charity, last Friday 6th February, as part of an evening of Six Nations celebrations. Before the ‘war’ unfolded at the Millennium Stadium, there was another battle going on in Ellenborough Park’s kitchen, as top chefs challenged each other in a Wales vs England Six Nations’ Culinary Cook- Off. Although England took the honours in the Six Nations opening match, it was Wales that won on the night in the kitchen as diners voted for one of two menus prepared anonymously by the chefs. Team captain on the Wales side was Welshman David Kelman, executive head chef at Ellenborough Park, who was assisted by Richard Davies, Michelin starred chef at The Manor House, Castle Combe.
Captain of the England team was Tom Court, the two AA Rosette chef at The Sticky Fig in Stourbridge; assisted by Kuba Winkowski, head chef at the three AA Rosette Feathered Nest Inn, Stow in the Wold. Between the main and dessert courses, diners watched the game on giant screens. After the final whistle rugby legend Phil Vickery stepped up to auction lots including a signed framed Gloucester Rugby Shirt, VIP rugby tickets, a cooking lesson with David Kelman, and “Red Racing”, a Neil Helyard painting that went under the hammer for a staggering £3,500. The evening’s nominated charity was Wooden Spoon, the UK’s leading grant-making charity dedicated to helping disabled and disadvantaged children and young people through rugby. A donation from each ticket sold was made to Wooden Spoon and all proceeds from the auction went to the charity.
POTHOLE DISGRACE ON ST STEPHENS ROAD THESE photos was taken yesterday morning (Wednesday 4th Feb) on St Stephens Road. The pothole is around two feet across and at least two feet deep, tunnelling under what is a very busy thoroughfare through the town. It’s plain to see the road has partly collapsed. Some motorists were seen to swerve too late as they spotted the deep hole, causing oncoming traffic to also swerve out of the way.
Richard Davies (Manor House, Castle Combe), David Kelman (Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham), Thomas Court (Sticky Fig, Stourbridge), Kuba Winkowski, (Feathered Nest, Stow).
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
Honeybourne Line improvements Part-closure from Monday 9th February between 8.30am and 4.30pm IMPROVEMENT works to part of the Honeybourne Line in Cheltenham started on Monday (9th) of this week with information signs going up at each entrance to the path to advise residents and visitors. Conifers are being removed from along the main footpath boundary between the play area and the end of the Travis Perkins yard. This will make the whole area lighter and more inviting, whilst also improving security for nearby properties. Other benefits include better CCTV coverage, reduced annual maintenance costs and it will also help prevent further root
damage to the footpath. Malcolm Walls, community parks officer from Cheltenham Borough Council, says: “We’re really pleased to have won funding for these improvements. The Honeybourne Line is a very popular footpath and cycle route and we’ve had great support from neighbouring residents, businesses and the Friends of the Honeybourne Line. “We hope that removing the conifers will help improve the light and safety in this area. We’ll be consulting with local residents, businesses and friends’ groups over the replacement trees and bushes, and a
more appropriate scheme will be planted here in the autumn.” The scheme costs around £6,750 which has come from Gloucestershire County Council’s local sustainable transport fund. Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways and flood at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “The line is a popular footpath and cycle route linking Wymans Brook and the railway station. The improvement money we’ve provided will make the area lighter, more inviting, improve the security, prevent further root damage and reduce annual maintenance costs.”
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Come Dine with Me comes to Cheltenham DO YOU and your partner enjoy cooking and want to compete for £1000? Couples Come Dine with Me will be filming in/around Cheltenham very soon, and they are looking for contestants. Over the course of three nights, three couples that are enthusiastic amateur chefs, who don’t know each other, take it in turns to host a dinner party for the other two couples. At the end of the week the best host couple wins
a £1,000 cash prize. The production company Shiver TV are looking for romantic couples to apply for the show. Applicants must be at least 18-years-old, and must not be professionally trained as a chef. The shoot will take place the week commencing 6th April, so you must be available across this week. Email comedinewithme@shiver.tv ASAP or call 08712 003 939 to apply.
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Car vandal caught POLICE want to thank the members of the public who came forward to identify a young male running across a row of cars at a local dealership. The act of vandalism happened on Tewkesbury Road between 5.30pm and 6pm on Sunday 25th January and was captured on CCTV. The footage showed the youth climbing onto the roof of the first car and then
running across the top of five more before leaping onto the bonnet of the seventh car and attempting a handstand. The CCTV footage was distributed via the media and social media which prompted a huge response from the public, many of whom put forward a name. A 15-year-old male from Cheltenham has now been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage. He has been released on police bail until 06/03/15.
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Cigarettes stolen in Bishop’s Cleeve supermarket break-in POLICE are seeking information about a burglary at a supermarket in Bishop’s Cleeve, in which a large quantity of cigarettes were stolen. The burglary occurred between midnight – 1am last Friday 6th February in a store on The Green, Bishops Cleeve. A rear door was forced open and the cigarettes stolen. It is suspected that three males were in-
volved and used a crow bar to force the door. A vehicle is believed to be involved which was parked at the rear of the shop while the burglary took place. A short time later a VW silver Golf was seen speeding along the B4632 towards Winchcombe. Anyone with information is asked to contact Gloucestershire Police on 101 quoting incident number 12 of 6th February 2015.
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12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Bath Road dangers Councillors roll up their must be addressed sleeves at recycling centre says Police and Crime Commissioner THE trial road safety scheme in Bath Road which ended early should not be the end of the road according to Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl. Bath Road was temporarily reduced from two lanes to one - but the experiment was cut short after motorists and local businesses complained of traffic jams and increased congestion. Mr. Surl, who has made safe and social driving one of the priorities of his police and crime plan, said: “Whilst I have some sympathy with traders whose business has been affected the county council must not give up their efforts to solve what is a serious problem.’’ He went on to add: “This is one of the busiest roads in the town and is a vital thoroughfare but too many drivers treat it as a race track and the close proximity of shops and clubs are a dangerous mix.” The Bath Road trial began on 19th January and was introduced in order for Gloucestershire Highways to assess the impact of reducing the town centre stretch
of the road to a single lane. Despite extensive research and traffic modelling beforehand to try and predict what would happen, it was called-off when it apparently failed to provide the anticipated solution. Ironically, the project was abandoned on what would have been the 21st birthday of Katie Clutterbuck from Longlevens, Gloucester who died after being hit by a car in Bath Road in September 2013. The driver was sentenced to seven months in jail.
Valuable canaries stolen from aviary EIGHTEEN Canaries have been stolen from a property in Justicia Way, Up Hatherley, last weekend. The owner of the birds, which were housed in cages in a shed, called police at just before 0900hrs on Sunday 08/02/15 after noticing the out building had been broken into - believed to be sometime between 1930hrs on Saturday 07/02/15 and 0820hrs on
Sunday 08/02/15. The birds are Coloured and Lizard Canaries - worth hundreds of pounds in total. Gloucestershire Police would like to hear from anyone who has either been offered these birds for sale or who knows anything about this incident. They are asked to contact 101 quoting incident no. 116 of 08/02/15.
COUNCILLORS will be rolling up their sleeves and mucking in at the recycling centre over the coming weeks, as part of the council’s ‘thanks a million’ campaign. They will be on hand to offer recycling advice to residents who may have otherwise been tempted to send things to landfill. The campaign, running throughout February and March, sends out a reminder that recycling and composting by Cheltenham residents saves over £1million on landfill tax costs every year. The council wants to beat this figure and that’s why councillors are going to the Swindon Road recycling centre to show residents how they could do even more. Councillor Chris Coleman, cabinet member for clean and green environment said: “When we have a clear out, it’s always tempting to put everything into a bag and take it to the tip for landfill. The reality is that lots of items could be saved from disposal and recycled if people know what the alternatives are.’’ Councillors representing different parties will be joining staff members to ask residents as they arrive at the centre if they are willing to volunteer to take part. If they are happy to do so, staff members will open their bags and any recycling items which can be identified will be separated and recycled rather than being sent to landfill.
“In addition to increasing the amount of recycling which is collected at the site, it is also envisaged that by raising awareness on what can be recycled, we can minimise the time people have to spend asking what to do with different items.’’ In one week, between Monday 2nd February at 7.30am and 4.30pm on Thursday 5th February from the recycling that was collected at the depot and weighed, the council collected: 300kg of paper; 500kg of textiles, 220kg of hard plastics, 15kg of household batteries, and 10kg of lightbulbs. Councillor Coleman continued: “This is not about policing bins. I am always amazed when I visit the recycling centre at the vast range of items which can be recycled. It’s just about spreading the word and showing people that they can make a difference.’’
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
Art Maze heading to town ART PLAYGROUND, a new social enterprise in Cheltenham, are crowdfunding for their innovative, accessible art installation: the Art Maze. It will be open for all to explore from April 1st - 19th in the town centre. The Art Maze will be a fun, free, community activity and members of the public can help to support Art Playground in their quest to jam-pack the maze with lots of brilliant interactive art, by donating as little or as much as they can to the project. Art Playground have launched their crowdfunding campaign to ask for the public’s help to fund the last £2k towards creating the maze. Christina Poulton, Director at Art Playground said: “We’re really excited about making this project a reality. We have been sharing ideas with artists and local groups and it has really sparked people’s imaginations. We can’t wait to explore it ourselves.” Art Playground have already received £10k of funding from the Big Lottery fund and
Cheltenham Borough Council to create the structure of the maze, offer the maze for free, to ensure it is accessible for a diverse audience and to do creative learning workshops with local families. Some key artworks are already lined up and the crowdfunding will provide the final artworks to complete the maze. Art Playground will combine work by families, community groups, schools, and both local and national artists to build the maze in an empty retail unit (secret location to be revealed), open daily for free. The Art Maze is for grown-ups, not so grown-ups, art lovers, toddlers and teenagers, for ages 0-100+. The project aims to encourage creativity and curiosity in adults and children alike. Over 3000 people have taken part in their projects recently. If you are interested in supporting the Art Maze visit their crowdfunding page at: http://www.ideastap.com/crowdfunding/ art-maze
£800,000 resurfacing work on A40 Golden Valley bypass will force night time closures DRIVERS using the A40 Golden Valley by pass have been promised a safer and smoother journey as a result of an £800,000 project to resurface the dual-carriageway
linking Cheltenham and Gloucester. Resurfacing work on a three mile section of the bypass will begin next week and require full night-time closures, Monday to Friday, on the A40 between M5 junction 11 and the Elmbridge Court roundabout. The road works will begin on the night of Thursday, 19th February, and will take place between 8pm and 6am, Monday to Friday. The scheme is expected to be finish by Friday, 6th March. While the works are undertaken fully signed diversion routes will be in place. Road users travelling eastbound towards Gloucester should join the B4063 at the Arle Court Roundabout, re-joining the A40 at Elmbridge Court Roundabout. Road users travelling towards Cheltenham from Gloucester should use the same route in reverse.
Over 65s and men in Cheltenham biggest plastic surgery users THE over 65s and men are leading a surge in cosmetic surgery in Cheltenham. This trend is mirrored across the UK, as Nuffield Health’s first annual Plastic Surgery insight survey reveals emerging trends in the market. Nationally, almost two thirds (64 percent) of Nuffield Health surgeons, who between them carry out 1 in 10 cosmetic procedures in the UK, reported an increase in older people seeking surgery. This figure was slightly higher amongst surgeons in the South West – where 67% noted this trend. Nuffield Health’s patient figures paint the same picture, with patients over 65 up by 49% in 2014 from 2007. Men are also continuing to drive the cosmetic surgery market, with more than four in five (83 percent) of Nuffield Health surgeons in the South West saying they have noticed a rise in men seeking cosmetic surgery in the form of nose jobs, eyelid lifts and ‘man boob’ removal. All of the South West surgeons questioned (100 percent) also reported a rise in the number of previously overweight or obese patients looking for surgery following weight loss. The Nuffield Health plastic surgeons believe the reasons behind the trend among the ‘baby boomer’ generation to be a direct result of people living longer, healthier lives
and wanting to ‘look well’ too. For men, surgery has increasingly become ‘the norm’ in recent years, and the trend looks set to stay, with men accounting for one in ten of all UK cosmetic procedures.* Mr Robert Warr, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital said: “I’m now seeing many more people in their 60s, 70s and even their 80s seeking plastic surgery as they not only want to remain fit and healthy into their old age but they want to look well too. I think this trend will continue as this is an expanding age group. They aren’t usually looking for radical work, normally face-rejuvenation, and providing they are fit and healthy, we can use new techniques and technologies which are ideally suited to them.”
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New Business Start-Up Diploma launched
Precious watch stolen in Cheltenham GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are appealing for information following the theft of an unusual watch from a house in Malleson Road, Gotherington, Cheltenham. Sometime between midday on 3rd and 9.00am on 5th February intruders forced open the patio doors of the property and searched throughout the house emptying drawers and cupboards. The offenders stole a rare 70th An-
Left to right: Kevin Daws, Michael Ratcliffe, Mayor Simon Wheeler, Kevan Blackadder and Tony Solomon.
“CHELTENHAM has seen a lot of businesses start up and fail. Unfortunately a lot of people have great ideas but they need other skills.” commented the Mayor of Cheltenham, Cllr Simon Wheeler. “A Diploma of this type helps to put the new Business StartUp on a good footing.” “The Chamber is delighted that Pitman Training Cheltenham have created a Business Start-Up Diploma providing the successful business ingredients required for anyone wishing to start up their own business.” commented Michael Ratcliffe, Chief Executive of Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce The new Manager of the Cheltenham Business Partnership, Kevan Blackadder commented: “It is great to welcome a new Business Diploma that will be of help to all types of Business Start-Ups.” Kath Daws, Centre Manager, commented “We are delighted that the Cheltenham Chamber of Commerce, Gloucestershire Fredericks Foundation and the Cheltenham Business Partnership were able to come and support the launch of our Business Start-Up Diploma.” “Our Business Start-Up Diploma is designed help new Businesses maximise their chances of success. It is a great way to gain practical, hands-on experience in some of the key areas involved in running a business.”
niversary Battle of Britain Watch. The case is described as rose gold plated with a red face. It is engraved with the words “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” Police would like to hear from anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area or recognises the watch. Please call 101 quoting incident number 87 of 5th of February 2015.
Cannabis seized in Churchdown and Cheltenham, two men arrested A LARGE quantity of cannabis has been seized from Churchdown and Cheltenham last week. Two males have been arrested. Following a call from the public reporting a strong smell of cannabis from an industrial unit in Meteor Business Park, Churchdown, police executed a warrant to search the premises on Monday 2nd February and discovered a large hydroponics cannabis production facility. A large number of plants were seized and two males aged 50 and 53 were subsequently arrested, one from a house in Brookfield Road, Churchdown and another in Thistledown Close, Cheltenham where another large quantity of cannabis plants were seized. An extremely high street value has been placed on the seizure which would have given a very large potential yearly yield of over £800,000. The two arrested males have been released
on police bail pending further investigation. PC Matt Rollason of Tewkesbury Police Station said: “This was a dynamic operation with an excellent result made possible with the support and assistance of the local community, which will always be an invaluable aspect of policing. We are grateful to the member of the public who contacted us to report their suspicions about this activity,’’ PC Rollason finally said: “We would urge anyone to come forward when they suspect possible criminality.”
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
Famous Caribbean eatery, Turtle Bay, to open restaurant in Cheltenham TURTLE Bay is to open a brand new restaurant in the town. Opening late March, Turtle Bay, Cheltenham will be located in the heart of the town centre on the corner of Pittville Street and Albion Street. Turtle Bay’s opening is one of the biggest restaurant openings in Cheltenham this year. The 6,000sq/ft venue will have 175 covers and employ a total of 60 staff. The former Embassy nightclub is currently undergoing an epic transformation, which represents an approximate £1m investment for Turtle Bay. Contractors are working around the clock to ensure the restaurant is ready for its grand opening. Turtle Bay is one of the best performing
and fastest expanding brands on the high street today. Founder Ajith Jayawickrema said the opening of the Cheltenham restaurant was a big milestone for Turtle Bay. He said: “This is an exciting step for us and we are especially looking forward to transporting Cheltenham diners to the Caribbean without the need for a plane ticket! At Turtle Bay, we are all about capturing the heart and soul of the Caribbean. I believe that exciting food should exercise the senses, stretch the palate and make your tongue smile. We want to lift our diners’ heart and soul – allowing them an atmosphere to have fun, laugh, relax with friends and share great food and drink.”
Public Auction Sale Tuesday 24th February 2015, 9:30am prompt LIVE INTERNET BIDDING
On Instructions from: Major Finance Companies, Liquidators, The Official Receivers, Glos. Constabulary and Other Vendors
Extensive Selection of Domestic Appliances
To incl. Gorenje E53108AW / GI52108AW Gas and Electric Cookers; Gorenje RK603590BK / RK603590C / RK603590CO / RF603090C Fridge Freezers; Gorenje W6223 Washing Machine; Ice King Fridges / Freezers / Fridgefreezers; Montpellier Cooker Hoods; Montpellier MR90DFMK / MR90DFMX Range Cookers; Montpellier MSE50W Electric Cookers; Royale RY50SEW / RY50TCS RY60DGW / RY60TCW / TT29 Cookers; Microwaves; Vacuum Cleaners etc Part of an 800 Lot Collective Auction to also incl. Vehicles; Plant and Machinery; Workshop Racking; General Machinery; Sanitary Ware; IT/Electrical Equipment; New and Used Tools; Selection of Bicycles
VIEWING: Monday 23rd February 2015 , 11am – 5pm LOCATION: Unit 5, Church Farm Business Centre, Church Road, Leckhampton, Cheltenham, GL53 0QJ
FIRST HUSTINGS AT ALL SAINTS ACADEMY LAST Friday 6th February, All Saints’ Academy hosted an event involving the local Parliamentary candidates for the election this May 2015. The candidates were current MP Martin Horwood, Liberal Democrats, Alex Chalk, Conservatives, Adam Van Coevorden, Green Party, Christina Simmonds, UKIP and Richard Lupson-Darnell who is running independently. The event was planned for the Year Eleven and Sixth Form students to give them a clearer view on the future elections. The student’s asked tough questions regarding our future. These included the subject of universities and how to guarantee employment after graduating; the economy and the decline of of the armed forces due to cut backs; the NHS and the subject of closing the A&E department in Cheltenham General Hospital and the hot topic of immigration – should an ‘Australian style’ points system be introduced in which skills and qualifications are taken into account. Sixth Form students Jack
Lane and Jodie Wilkinson chaired the debate making sure that each politician had their turn to speak. “It was a great experience being able to question the MP candidates for Cheltenham as we got to hear their views on topics that are relevant to us and our future, which will help us make an informed decision on who to vote for. Before this experience I never really thought about voting and never paid interest in what the parties stood for. I now feel as if I have a greater understanding and feel more prepared, and ready for the future when I can vote’’, said Sixth Form student Charis Pardoe. Conservative candidate Alex Chalk said: “It’s fantastic that All Saints’ Academy has given their pupils the chance to engage so directly with the election in Cheltenham, and I love that the school is putting out such a positive message about voting.’’ Richard Lupson-Darnell who is running independently said: “The school should be very proud of what it put on and the way it conducted itself.’’
Cheltenham students can do with Taekwon-Do
Councillor Suzanne Williams will visit Aston Taekwon-Do to present these successful students with their new certificates and belts. Sergeant Harry Limer said: "This is an important day for Aston TKD students. Their achievement displays their self-improvement not only as martial artists but also as individuals within the community. "Through a disciplined but fun environment we teach the tenets of Taekwon-Do, which are; Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-control and Indomitable spirit. "Aston TKD provides the local community with easy access for children to train in a safe environment which leads to youngsters having a healthier lifestyle, more confidence and self-discipline while maintaining a focus and developing additional life skills, instead of potentially hanging around the streets causing mischief through boredom that may lead to antisocial behaviour within the community."
A GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police Sergeant, who runs a martial arts school in his spare time, has recently helped five of his students obtain yellow belts - a promotion to the next level in martial arts terms, and they will receive their awards this week. Sergeant Harry Limer, who is also a professional 4th Dan Black Belt instructor, runs Aston Taekwon-Do in Cheltenham for local children and families who are part of the local Aston Project - aimed at those who have less opportunities available to them compared to other youngsters and their families. Today at The YMCA Sports Centre, The Mayor, Councillor Simon Wheeler and
12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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Glos-Tone-Beret Preview By TODD HASLEWOOD
NEW MOBILE APP MAY DIG YOU OUT OF THE VALENTINES HOLE A SURVEY by Inkly Cards has revealed that 72% of people in the county have admitted to leaving it until the last minute to buy their loved one a Valentine’s Day card in the past*. Men are the worst culprits, with 82% leaving it until the last minute (the highest rate in the country, with a national average of 76%), compared to 67% of women in Gloucestershire. Respondents in the UK nationally also said that they would most like to receive a handwritten card (35%), followed by a card with personalised photos (26%). ‘Funny’ and ‘cute’ cards were less popular (16% and 14% respectively). Peter Ryder, cofounder of Inkly Cards, said: “It looks as though we Brits need to be a bit more prepared for Valentine’s Day. But
people have busy lives and buying cards might not be at the top of their list of things to do. We’re providing a solution to that with Inkly Cards.” Lee Hawkins, cofounder of Inkly Cards said: “With the mobile app, people can select a card, include their own handwriting, upload their photos and post it straight away, without needing stamps or a post box. It’s quick and easy for those on the go, so there really are no more excuses for last minute shopping!” Inkly Cards allows you to send real printed greetings cards and postcards straight from your mobile device with a handwritten message inside. Inkly Cards is compatible with iPhone, iPad and Android 4.0 and up.
Soapbox By COUNCILLOR KLARA SUDBURY A PLANNING application submitted to Cotswold District Council has infuriated many Cheltenham families. Developers have asked to redevelop Ullenwood Court which is host to many existing local businesses and includes a working livery yard, arena and pony club. The plans for 27 houses mean the riding centre on the outskirts of Cheltenham would have to close. This has caused a lot of concern for the people who ride and keep their horses there. A Facebook page set up to fight the plans has garnered nearly 400 supporters, many of who have posted photos and memories of times riding there. New developments often provoke a massive backlash; sometimes it is because of the loss of a much loved amenity as is the case at Ullenwood. Cheltenham is a lovely place to live; we have good schools (many oversubscribed), decent shopping, leisure and culture opportunities, heritage buildings, green spaces, parks and gardens. The quality of life in Cheltenham makes people who grew up here want to stay and also attracts people to move into the area. The concerns about the Ullenwood redevelopment are arguments which are central to the dilemma facing planners and politicians in Cheltenham and the areas surrounding our town; people need
houses but they also need a lot of other things too. It is a difficult balance to successfully plan to provide enough housing to meet the demand for housing without ruining the town and the area around it by destroying the very things which make it so appealing to live here. We all too often moan about youngsters these days being sat at home watching T.V. or playing video games and health experts exercise themselves about childhood obesity. And yet for all of us to have access to space for exercise and recreation means less land available to plonk houses on. That means we need to protect spaces like riding schools, football pitches, green spaces used for walking, leisure etc. The riding centre gives young people an opportunity to keep fit, be out in fresh air and learn to care for animals; it is a valuable experience for them and I hope the campaigners win.
THIS weekend sees the yearly music festival, ‘Glos-Tone-Beret’, taking place at the Frog and Fiddle in the town centre. With two days of live music across two different stages, it offers the chance to take in some of the county’s musical talent. All different genres of music are covered; from acoustic right through to heavy metal. Overlooking the event will be the University of Gloucestershire’s very own Tone Radio, who have been on a meteoric rise over the past number of years. They broadcast live from the festival each year, whilst doing the same at ‘2000 Trees Festival’. Much more recently, station manager and radio production student, Tom Clarke interviewed Ricky Gervais on his show, ‘Apologies In Advance’. Tom, 19, said: “Glos-Tone-Beret is an amazing opportunity for us to get involved in the local music scene; it’s great to showcase some of Gloucestershire’s best musicians too.”
“We’re all really excited about the weekend and hope it will be as much of a success as previous years.” The festival is held this Friday and Saturday, 13th and 14th of February.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
BUSINESS Editor’sDESK
A
S WE face the end of our ‘winter of discontent’ on several issues in and around the town, some glaringly obvious problems have arrived again to cause a certain degree of misery. The winter thaw is just around the corner and the annual appearance of potholes are rearing their ugly heads again. I have never in my life been in a city or town that’s so blighted by these holes in the road. Now I know that some of our local politicians have been blaring on about them in the past. But all of them, without exception, haven’t been able to actually resolve the situation. What pressure do they need to exert on both Gloucestershire County Council and the Borough Council to fix this nonsensical and appalling mess? And are they doing enough? Probably not. Just take a look at our article on page three about the ‘cave’ that has appeared on St Stephens Road, which is nothing short of dangerous and even life-threatening. Imagine if a cyclist hit that pothole and then toppled into the main part of the road in front of traffic? We would have a death or at the very least, a serious injury on our hands. And this at a time when the council have just wasted a certain amount of money on the Bath Road trial. At what cost? And as we said on our front-page this week, the County Council have netted some £900K over the past three years in parking tickets. And yet we still have some roads that are downright dangerous. Again where is the money going? It’s either incompetence or misguiding funds somewhere else into needless and pointless projects that’s hovering away the much-needed money for road maintenance. The council may want to hold up their hands and say they have a grip on this, but they don’t. It’s as simple as that. The latest overspend on The Wilson Gallery which was apparently a ‘mistake’ and an ‘unfortunate’ cost to the town (us) was over £500K. What would that money have been able to do for the state of the roads? You see my point? We need action, not hot air from these ‘would be’ Parliamentarians and councillors on behalf of all the road users. They all posture and postulate, but don’t actually get down to any real work. Why doesn’t either Martin Horwood or Alex Chalk march into the council office and aggressively demand some action? But they don’t. Emails, grandstanding and letters to the council simply isn’t going to cut it gentlemen. We need real action before someone is killed. Or are you going to wait and then say, ‘I told you so’ blaming each other and everybody else except yourselves for the inability to get it sorted?
Eric Barton, Editor
Got a comment? Please contact us at editor@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk
Blackadder goes forth A GROUP representing Cheltenham’s key retailers and businesses has appointed a new manager. Kevan Blackadder started work this week as manager of the Cheltenham Business Partnership. Kevan, 54, former editor of the Gloucestershire Echo, said he aims to use the role to both promote the town and help companies thrive. Kevan said: “I will work closely with both businesses and local councils and other organisations to try to ensure that Cheltenham thrives both as a retail centre and as a town. “It’s important that although I will be working closely with Cheltenham Borough Council in particular, I will be independent.’’ “If the council is not representing the interests of our shops and businesses properly, I intend to let them know. I’ll be meeting the major shopping centres and independent retailers regularly and ensuring that I know the issues that are important to them.” The Cheltenham Business Partnership is made up of key companies and organisations, who work together for
the benefit of the town. It brings together commerce, industry, leisure and administration. Kevan, who lives in Woodmancote, said: “I am determined to make sure Cheltenham continues to punch above its weight as a shopping, business and cultural destination. “We are very lucky as a town that we have so much to promote in addition to our unique retail offering.
From the races through to the festivals, to the distinctive independent businesses, the town has so much to offer. “If you are a local business, big or small, I’d be delighted to hear from you.” Partnership chairman John Forward, centre director of Regent Arcade, said: “I am delighted that Kevan is taking up this post at what is an exciting time for our vibrant and growing town. “There are many changes happening in Cheltenham and it is important that the views of the town’s businesses are represented throughout.” Councillor Steve Jordan, leader at Cheltenham Borough Council said: “Kevan has the ideal background for the role as he has always worked closely with key stake holders. He has also questioned the actions of the council when necessary, and I know he will continue to do so.” Kevan will also continue to work independently as a media consultant. He can be contacted on 01242 252626 or by e-mail at manager@cheltenhambp.org.uk
Local business raises over £2,800 for local charity ON TUESDAY 3rd February 2015, local recruitment agency Expectations! Recruitment Services presented local charity The James Hopkins Trust with a donation cheque of £2,808. The funds, which were raised over the course of a year, will be used to support the charity to enrich the lives of disabled, life threatened and lifelimited children in Gloucestershire. At the beginning of 2014, local business Expectations! Recruitment Services pledged that their Cheltenham and Gloucester branches would help raise money for local charity The James Hopkins Trust; they committed to donate £24 for every permanent vacancy filled, as well as raising money through donations. Their target; to raise £2,500 for the charity, to help fund their life-changing work with severely disabled, life threatened and life limited young children in Gloucestershire. Last Tuesday 3rd February 2015, the team from Expectations! Cheltenham & Gloucester offices presented The
James Hopkins Trust with a cheque. Sarah James, Fundraising Manager, for The James Hopkins Trust said: “We have really enjoyed getting to know Expectations! Recruitment; they have been full of energy and absolutely committed to making a difference. Without the generous support of our Gloucestershire community and businesses like Expectations Recruitment we would really struggle to support our families.” Victoria Maddock, Director of Expectations said: “Having a charity to support this year has been great and all the staff have really got ‘stuck in’ to raising money. The James Hopkins Trust is such a moving cause and our
staff were really touched by their work when we paid them a visit! We know that the money raised will be used to do good work, and supporting a local charity means we know exactly how it makes a difference.”
Cheltenham Standard is published weekly by Cheltenham Standard Ltd is registered at Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Montpellier Drive, Cheltenham, GL50 1TA. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, heltenham Standard Ltd will not accept liability for loss or damage. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor publisher accepts responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. All rights reserved. ISSN no. 2055-2092. Terms and conditions at www.cheltenhamstandard.co.uk
12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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BUSINESS
GROWING EVEN STRONGER… HARRISON CLARK RICKERBYS LIFT THE LID ON THEIR PLANS FOR 2015 WITH the extremely successful merger of two legal firms it is no surprise that this particular company has gone from strength to strength over the last few years. The strongest, 200-year-old legal firm in Gloucestershire, Rickerbys, joining forces with the solid Worcestershire and Herefordshire based, Harrison Clark. Partner and Head of the Cheltenham Office at Harrison Clark Rickerbys (HCR), Jon Whitbread (pictured), said: “In late 2012, early 2013, discussions started about putting the two practices together to give us a dominant position across the Three Counties base. There was lots of common interest, synergies and links across the two practices and we brought everyone together in the middle of 2013.” Eighteen months later and they
have not looked back. Clearly delighted with how the merger has gone Jon, previous employee of Wragge Lawrence Graham & Co, continued: “In terms of clients, I think we now have greater strength and depth. There is a clear focus on the client experience and delivering the best services. We are more proactive, thinking about what opportunities and introductions we can make to the client and are actively looking at opportunities for them.” With some brilliant lawyers, HCR are not only recruiting some of the best local people across the Three Counties but are pulling in some phenomenal quality lawyers from Birmingham, Bristol, and London, who all have a passion for quality. Jon said: “There is a great attraction for coming into the firm. We want to have a really
balanced practice between private clients and corporate services and between local work and local companies. We also want to be able to pull in some big ticket work nationally and internationally, which would generate opportunities for many, which can only be a strong thing for the local business community.” “Seeing the company go from strength to strength, and digesting the positive feedback from clients is such a buzz, and always will be.” For 2015, the motto is ‘never say never’ Harrison Clark Rickerbys. Jon added: “In terms of our offices, the base we have got and the key people in the company, it is now a case of developing and supporting these people in these niche areas, which will be the focus for this year and we will see where we go beyond there.”
Local firm Attivo starts 2015 with new acquisition BUILDING on the accelerated pace of growth set in 2014, Attivo, the national wealth management and investment group headquartered in Cheltenham announced it is acquiring Sanderson Financial Consultancy based in Reading. Sanderson is a wealth management IFA with 190 active clients, £16m funds under management and a recurring income of over £130k per year. Stephen Harper (pictured), chief executive of Attivo Group, said: “We have set ourselves the challenging target of 12 acquisitions in 2015, continuing the ambitious growth of the Group to reach our target of £1bn FUM by the end of 2015, with plans to double this figure by 2017.’’ He went to add: “The acquisition of Sanderson is the first business past the post this year but we have a number of other IFA businesses at due diligence stage and I expect to make further announcements shortly.’’ Stephen Harper also commented: “The Attivo proposition is attractive for IFAs seeking to make capital from their business. We are often in competition with larger consolidators but we are able to secure acquisitions through the strength of our client-focussed proposition. Significant IFAs who have built up a loyal client bank over a number of years do not want to hand over
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Sip, sip, sip hooray… WITH Valentine's Day falling on a Saturday and the hottest film of the year - Fifty Shades Of Grey - coming to the big screen on February 13th, there couldn't be a better time for a sparkling rose, Provencal pink or sophisticated classic fizz to spark up the romance and passion. Here's our pick of the bunch with a cocktail to set the tone first. If you desire an exotic cocktail to set the mood, a twist on the classic martini promises the perfect start to Valentine's evening. Instead of vermouth, pour in a measure of Lanique (£24.95, 70cl) to unearth the scent of rose oil from this unique Prussian liqueur. An exquisite lipstick pink, it's slightly sweet and can also be added to white wine. You’ll need- 25ml Lanique, 15ml gin and a lime twist. Here’s how- half-fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the Lanique and gin, stir well, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime twist. Yum.
OOBALOOS Wedding Photography If you’ve booked the venue, tasted seventeen different types of wedding cake, but are still dawdling over the right wedding photographer to capture your day perfectly, then look no further. At Oobaloos, we have years of experience in making those special moments really sparkle. Book now at: www.oobaloos.com and take advantage of our special introductory offer of only £499.
COMING UP ROSES The picturesque Loire Valley produces some lovely bubbly and fresh styles from Saumur such as Abesse Cremant De Loire Rose 2012, France (£12.99, www.laith waites.co.uk) - made in the traditional method, it can be beautifully expressive and offer excellent value. Made from cabernet franc grapes, it has a floral, fresh berry nose with a creamy palate and a fruitfilled freshness on the finish. FIT FOR A QUEEN A classy choice for the lady of the house, Royal Warrant holders GH Mumm are the official suppliers to Her Majesty the Queen and for an easy drinking rose, you can't go
12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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D N ’ FORO GETT. 14T ..
If you REALLY love that Special Person, say it with REALLY Special Red Roses
FEBH !
it’s Valentine’s Day! wrong with a bottle of GH Mumm Cordon Rouge Rose, France (£33.59 down from £41.99, now until March 17th, Waitrose). A deep peachy pink with raspberry aromas, vibrant red fruits and a slight tartness on the flourish of a finish. UNDER LOCK AND KEY A sexy creation from Moet & Chandon, their limited edition ‘Unfurl The Tie' Rose Imperial Champagne, France (pictured below) (£110 available now) comes in a stylish rounded case which pirouettes open to reveal a bottle of their rose, with a 'Toasting Tie' stand that holds two delicately stemmed, footless champagne flutes. Bit over the top, but might be perfect to ‘push out the romantic boat’ as it were. PINK PERSUASION Cited by Decanter magazine as 'the perfect Provence Rose', once you've poured a glass of Chateau Coussin Rose 2013, Cotes de Provence, France (£13, Oddbins) it won't take
much convincing that this wine is going to be utterly delicious. The colour is a pale, baby pink, the bouquet is rose and strawberry scented which leads to passion fruit and pink grapefruit flavours with an underlying minerality that adds freshness and elegance. So you see there’s plenty of mouth-watering tinctures out there to set the Valentines pulses racing. Wow him or her with a tantalising swig of something exotic or a sip of something that’s both simple and stunning. Let the fun begin.
Hand tied by a REAL Florist Not packaged on a production line. Delivered by a REAL flower delivery driver. Not dropped off in a box from China or India We have the finest Grade A Naomi Red Roses that are shipped at ambient temperature (not frozen) from Holland straight to our door, not via Markets, then lovingly prepared and conditioned by our Professional Florists, then hand tied with the freshest foliage and carefully loaded into our van ready for delivery, or waiting in our shop ready for you to collect.
Call: 01242 527988 Visit: 3 Great Norwood Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 2AW
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
TheVIBE A snapshot of student life in Cheltenham
BOOZE, BINGES & BIRTHDAYS And everything in-between! BY FRANCESCA COBY UNIVERSITY is for many, the first time they move away from home, away from their parents, and the people they’ve always known. The safety blanket is pulled from underneath all of us and we are thrust into the new world of independent living and buying our own toothpaste. I never realised cheese was this expensive! There are dozens of daunting first time tasks. Although we’re only at university for nine months of the year many of us will have birthdays that fall into this category. I decided in my first year, as a February baby to not run
home to mummy but to take my independent living to a whole new extreme, I was going to stay here. From three years of experience I can honestly say they are bloody marvelous. Everyone feels so sorry for you that you’re not at home you get spoilt rotten. Mum might have brought me some toast in bed but my friends in Cheltenham cook me a flipping eggs benedict, and I get woken by a champagne toast. As for the celebrating it goes on for at least a solid week, everyone takes it as an excuse to do as little work as possible and get so disgustingly drunk they don’t
know what to do with themselves, all with the notion, ‘hell it’s a birthday let’s all celebrate’. The best part is everything is double, last year I got two birthday cakes on two separate occasions during the week, and all those friends who don’t buy you a present end up buying you a drink when you’re out, and when people are drunk everyone is your friend. On all of your consequential nights out you get a shout out from the DJ each seeming better and more exciting than the last. The free “champagne” (cheap cider in a wine bottle) you get at Moo Moo’s on your birthday seems like the best thing that has
happened to you all year. I encourage all students to spend their birthdays at uni, because the party never ends and the best part? Mum comes up at
the end of the week, and takes you for the most glorious threecourse dinner which means you stay full for days and don’t have to go food shopping. Bliss.
AgonyAunt Kimberley Wall I HAVE come across a couple of recent articles that have offered ‘tips’ for people who are single in order to ‘survive’ Valentine’s Day. They tended to focus on the ‘best’ ways to find a mate in time for the ‘big day’ and/or planning for the perfect first date; Bridget Jones style. There is obviously nothing wrong with desiring a romantic relationship or looking for one (at any time of year) but one of the greatest hurdles in life can be truly accepting and loving yourself for who you are, so why not use this day to
work on your relationship with yourself? (NB if you are someone who is actively looking for a partner, loving yourself also happens to be very attractive to other people anyway so win-win!). You could visit somewhere nice, run yourself a romantic bath, make yourself a special breakfast or even write yourself a letter saying why you are so very proud of the woman/man you have become (including the things you’ve achieved since last year)? Whatever is YOU (those activities that help you feel peaceful and content). Before we look for a new relationship it is healthy to take some time to reflect on our past experiences or invest in who we are now, in order not to choose the same relationship again. Therefore if a past relationship is still hurting you or you are finding it difficult to move on then you could also make the decision to talk to a Relate counsellor (charges apply) about it this year (01242 523215). Whether you are in a relationship or not your Valentine’s Day can still be full of love even without going on that ‘perfect’ first date.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
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12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
CULTURE BIG NAMES FOR JAZZ FESTIVAL 2015
Wilko Johnson
CHELTENHAM Jazz Festival returns at the end of April with a bold programme featuring a range of exclusive one-off performances, unique collaborations, special commissions and debut UK appearances from a heady mix of established stars and emerging talent. Taking place across six days from Wednesday, April 29th – Monday, May 4th, this year’s festival will present a smart balance of classic and contemporary jazz, blues, soul and pop from a string of pioneering acts including million-selling singer-songwriter Rumer, Dutch superstar Caro Emerald, experimental producer and composer Squarepusher, one of the queens of soul Martha Reeves, world-renowned DJ and broadcaster Gilles Peterson, former Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson, Californian blues-rocker Beth Hart, and consummate jazz singer and broadcaster Clare Teal. It’s a heady line-up that’s
bound to thrill. BBC Radio 2 continues its long-term association with the festival and has confirmed a range of activity across the week. Alongside live festival-themed shows recorded onsite by Jamie Cullum on Saturday, May 2 and Clare Teal on Sunday, May 3, the network will air Caro Emerald’s concert on Thursday, April 30 and a Frank Sinatra-themed ‘Friday Night Is Music Night’. The 2015 Cheltenham Jazz Festival is hosted in a tented festival village in Cheltenham’s Montpellier Gardens featuring the Big Top, the Jazz Arena, the Take Five Tent - which will feature talks, workshops and family activities - a food, drink and market area, as well as shows at various venues around town. Tickets go on sale to members on Wednesday, February 25 and to the general public on Thursday, March 5 at cheltenhamfestivals.com
Bumper calendar of family events for Town Hall Event
Date
Time
Location
Tickets
Jurassic Adventures (Ages 3+)
Monday 23 March 2015
11am & 4.30pm
Cheltenham Town Hall
Adults: £16.50 Children: £13.50 Family of four: £54 School parties: £9.50
The Amazing Bubble Man (all ages)
Monday 30 March 2015
11.30am & 2.30pm
Cheltenham Town Hall
Adults: £14 Children £11.50 Family of four: £46
Journey of Turtle (ages 5+)
Monday 6 April 2015
2.30pm
Cheltenham Town Hall
Adults: £7.50 Children: £6.50
Tweedy’s House of Fun (all ages)
Wednesday 8 April 2015
2.30pm
Cheltenham Town Hall
Adults: £12.50 Children: £9 Family of Four: £36
Jamie Allan iMagician
Friday 1 May 2015
7.30pm
Cheltenham Town Hall
Adults: £19.50 Under 16s: £12.50
Voca People
Monday 4 May 2015
7.30pm
Cheltenham Town Hall
Adults: £22.50 Children: £20.50 Family of four: £76
All tickets available from: Cheltenham Town Hall Box Office in person, via 0844 576 2210 or at Cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
A BRAND new programme of family events will launch at Cheltenham Town Hall this year, starting with Jurassic Adventures on Monday 23rd March 2015. The spring season also features the fabulously entertaining The Amazing Bubble Man (30th March 2015). Bubbleologist Louis Pearl explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and mesmerising bubble tricks to keep all ages entertained. Lempen Puppet Theatre bring the imaginative evolutionary journey of the turtle to town on Monday 6th April 2015 (Journey of Turtle). This delightful, traditional production, designed to inspire everyone over age 5, is told with shadows, table-top puppets and storytelling. On Wednesday 8th April 2015 Gloucestershire’s favourite clown, Tweedy, moves into a new house, but needs to impress his grumpy landlord (Wink Taylor, from Mini CITV’s Sooty Show) with the help of Theo the Mouse and Wendy! This delightfully entertaining show (Tweedy’s House of Fun) from Gloucestershire’s top family entertainers is a perfect Easter matinee for all ages. Heading towards the summer months (Friday 1st May 2015) Jamie Allan’s spectacular fusion of magic and technology explores the work of history’s greatest illusionists, demonstrating how modern technology can make them even more mind blowing. His incredible illusions have recently appeared on ITV’s The Alan Titchmarsh Show and BBC’s The One Show. On Monday 4th May 2015 the thrilling and original musical extravaganza that is the Voca People will burst into Cheltenham Town Hall with their energetic show. This internationally acclaimed vocal harmony beatbox group perform more than 80 hit songs, from Michael Jackson to Mozart!
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CULTURE THE LIVE LINE UPS THIS weekend's big event in Cheltenham is a series of concerts that goes under the moniker of Folk Three. Taking place at Cheltenham Town Hall over three nights on Friday 13th to Sunday 15th February, Folk Three replaces the Folk Festival that ran annually in the town for many years. Controversially, the Folk Festival was disbanded this year due to declining ticket sales. This new stripped-back version hopes to retain the appeal of the Folk Festival’s evening sessions by having a headlining act and supports perform, with a disc jockey spinning discs in the interval. Some people are sceptical of the new format and point to the omission of the traditional Folk Festival workshops, Fringe sessions and street performance as a huge loss. Friday's concert begins with BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner Chris Wood before headliners Shooglenifty (featuring Kaela Rowan) take the stage. Saturday features Rory McLeod and headliners Eliza & Martin Carthy. Whilst Sunday's concert sees major folk star Seth Lakeman (pictured) return to
Cheltenham, with support from The Blair Dunlop Band. The organisers promise that Folk Three will be 'not just your usual concert experience,' with DJ Dolphin Boy performing sets throughout the weekend in the Pillar Room and a pop-up bar in the Main Hall serving drinks during the performances. Whether it can win over the folk fans who have faithfully supported the festival over the years remains to be seen, but rest assured that the acts on show will be of the highest quality. If you aren’t a big fan of folk music then you’ll still be able to get your live music fix elsewhere around town this weekend as most genres are covered. On Friday, head to Subtone for some jazz and blues played by upbeat party band The Cuginis, whilst the 2 Pigs hosts a night of indie and alternative rock by the way of The Vigil, The Call Out and Courson. Fred Roberts’ Family host an acoustic night featuring The Timbres at The Bell Inn, and Glos-Tone-Beret Festival takes place over two stages at The Frog & Fiddle. On Saturday it might be Valentine’s Night, but as all of the restaurants are likely to be fully booked by now, you might as well take your loved ones to watch The Going Goods at St Paul’s Tavern who play hip-hop with a smile on their faces. If that’s not your thing, then Knebakaye are performing mod and Britpop covers at Subtone, whilst The Jaguars play the best songs from the 60’s at The Charlton Kings Club. Whatever’s your thing, you will be sure to find plenty going on in Cheltenham this weekend to satisfy your musical taste buds. For more local music news visit www.behindthesceneglos.com
Book REVIEW By EVE SEYMOUR YOUNG teen, Oscar Dunleavy is missing, presumed to have committed suicide. A big search takes place to find him, but to no avail. Stevie, his disabled brother, is convinced that Oscar is alive, as is his best friend Meg. Oscar’s missing status is the event from which this enchanting story sparks. Through a dual narrative, Moore Fitzgerald sensitively conveys the blossoming of Oscar and Meg’s deep friendship and love for each other so that when Meg is forced to fall in with her parents’ plans to visit New Zealand for a six-month stay, leaving her best friend behind, she is fiercely resistant. What Meg doesn’t realise is that, in her absence, precocious and beautiful Paloma Killealy
Jools Holland returns to The Centaur with KT Tunstall ON FRIDAY 20th November 2015, The Centaur at Cheltenham Racecourse will warmly welcome the return of Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra with special guest KT Tunstall. Having performed previously in The Centaur back in 2013 the Pianist, bandleader, singer, composer, television presenter and multiplatinum recording artist Jools Holland returns to Cheltenham as part of his thirty-one date
Jools Holland
Autumn/Winter Tour across the UK and Ireland. Jools Holland will be performing tracks spanning his entire solo career as well as songs taken from his new duets album ‘Sirens Of Song’, released November 2014. With a catalogue that reaches through decades a night with Jools Holland will bring you the greatest boogiewoogie party in town. KT Tunstall will be joining Jools and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra making for a very exciting addition to the line-up. The BRIT-award winning Scottish singersongwriter has sold over 4 million records and boasts an impressive catalogue of hit singles including ‘Suddenly I See’, ‘Black Horse And The Cherry Tree’ and ‘Other Side Of The World’. She originally broke into the music scene in 2004 when she performed live on “Later… With Jools Holland” and appears on Jools’ recent album Sirens Of Song (2014) on the track ‘Night And Day’. Tickets are priced at £36 (excluding booking fee) and available at www.cheltenham.co.uk
The Apple Tart of Hope By Sarah Moore Fitzgerald makes a play for Oscar. When he rejects her seductive charms, hell, as the saying goes, hath no fury than a woman scorned. Vicious and deeply manipulative, Paloma embarks on a cruel plan, with catastrophic results. Moore Fitzgerald’s vibrant prose fizzes with energy. Her portrayal of the agonies of adolescence is spot-on. Dogged, sensible and determined Meg is a wonderful character, yet it’s gentle and charming Oscar who really grabs our hearts. With a nose for those in trouble, Oscar turns his talent for baking into a genuine force for good. And this is where the intriguing title of the novel comes in. Oscar gifts his apple tarts to the lost and desperate. Embodying the kindness of strangers, his simple gesture is not only a message of hope, but also of love, and something we all need to keep us on the
straight and narrow. As Oscar says: ‘After you’ve taken a bite, the whole world will look almost completely different... you’ll realise that everything is going to be OK.’ So how is it that Oscar feels so marginalised and desperate himself? How does he pull off the biggest disappearing act in history? And who comes to the rescue? You’ll have to read this big-hearted children’s book to find out. Certain to delight 11 plus readers and, dare I say, adults alike, it’s a little piece of pure, irresistible magic. The Apple Tart of Hope is published by Orion’s Children’s’ Books. Eve Seymour is a freelance writing coach and the author of seven crime fiction novels. Beautiful Losers will be published by US publisher Midnight Ink early 2016. To see more details of her work visit www.evseymour.co.uk
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT...
QUIRKY NEWS
A selection of the strangest stories from around the globe
TRAIN STATION DOG FINDS NEW HOME A DOG who became a global star after being abandoned at a Scottish train station with his belongings in a suitcase has found a new home. Shar-Pei crossbreed 'Kai' was discovered tied to a railing outside Ayr station last month next to a suitcase containing a pillow, toy, food bowl and food. After his story was publicised, the Scottish SPCA found themselves inundated with offers to adopt Kai from people all over the world. However, his lucky new owner is selfemployed hydraulic engineer Ian Russell, 52. Mr Russell said he was left heartbroken when his Dalmatian Mica, who he had owned for 15 years, passed away just before Christmas. When he heard about Kai he immediately applied to adopt him but didn't think that he stood a chance. And when he learned he
Coppers keep cool with bees
had been successful he said it was a “bit like winning the lottery.” As for Kai's future, Ian says he can expect to lead an active and adventurous life as he works all over Scotland, mainly outdoors, and Kai will accompany him. According to reports, Kai ended up being abandoned after a Gumtree sale allegedly went wrong. After his case was publicised, a woman called Fin Rayner stepped forward to claim that she had travelled from her home in Aberdeenshire to Ayr to collect Kai after
seeing him advertised. However, when she arrived she discovered that he wasn’t the dog pictured in the online ad. When she asked to take Kai for a walk the seller requested a £150 deposit in case she didn't return. However, it was the seller who disappeared. According to Ms Rayner, she told a member of staff that Kai was somebody else's dog and, after making sure he was in a safe place, tied him to the railings before leaving.
BRITAIN'S first police beekeeping club has been launched to help officers in Scotland Yard's CO19 firearms unit keep calm. Bosses provided a grant of £525 to pay for two hives and protective suits for the Met Police Beekeeping Association. Publicity material for the club says the activity is ideal for stressed cops because it is a relaxing and rewarding hobby. The firearms officer who set up the club, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: “There's a long history of beekeeping in my family and I thought it would be a fantastic hobby for police.” A Met Police spokesman said: “The Metropolitan Police Beekeeping Association has no record of members being stung by their MPBA bees. “Members wear protective clothing and gloves at all times and are briefed about risks before they take part in activities.”
VENTING SPLEEN… Local man about town, Tom Thurlow lets loose
A
14-YEAR OLD teen has basked in the spotlight this week for accepting donations totaling £300 to replace his top-of-the-range bike stolen from his backyard in Springbank, Cheltenham. In a local article at the end of January it reported the theft and published the photo of a glum looking Jackson French and his appeal to the thieves to return the bike he worked so hard to save up for. Up until this point the story hasn’t bothered me. Fruitless as this appeal looked then, and now, perhaps a twitchy neighbour or a remorseful accomplice might come forward with information? Certainly worth the kid trying? I also appreciate his frustration and having something taken from him that he’s bought with his own money; poor little mite. However - my sympathy quickly dries up the following week when his
misfortune seemingly gets its own registered charity number. Local woman, Rachel Godwin, gets on her soapbox and publicly calls for everyone in the county to ‘chip in’ £1. Whilst I felt his parents taught him a valuable lesson in being independent, earning money, saving money, it seems these lessons fell short when his enablers helped him to behave no better than a vagrant. The teenager lost his bike. Unlike the worthy stories you hear of the public crowd funding for individuals needing life-
Illustrat
ion purp
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saving surgery, this case warranted nothing of the sort. The parents should’ve gracefully refused the offer of donations, instead thanking those for their generosity. In the process they could’ve taught Jackson another important life lesson: you will lose things and you will have to deal with it. Heavens! How many more times are we going to have to chip in for poor Jackson? Should we foot the bill when he rips a hole in his
sweatshirt when he plays about in the mud? Or God forbid his girlfriend dumps him in a few years. Should we all rally together to pay for him to get on a dating site? It’s mollycoddling to the highest degree and I won’t stand for it. I happened to have my Beats headphones stolen last week off the gym floor whilst I worked out with Personal Trainer to the local celebs, Adam Galway. It’s very important I deal with it like a big boy and make the painstaking decision of whether to part with my money for another pair or go without. I’m certainly not going to do a whip round and have the British public purchase them for me. To add a final twist to the story, it was awkwardly revealed that
the kid’s Granddad actually gave him ANOTHER £300 needed for a new bike. But rather than return the donations it seems Jackson’s parents intend to pocket the lot under the justification he’ll need the cash to buy a steel lock. Hopefully they might change their minds and return the money either to the donors or at least treat Granddad to a bottle of whiskey; that would be the honourable thing to do? In light of this, I think I would like to repeat Miss Godwin’s actions and ask my readers to donate £1 to Jackson French’s parents. If everybody in the county did it would raise £858,300! We could use the money to move them to a better house in a better area of Cheltenham, or, let’s face it; this bike’s going to be a gonner’ too! But don’t worry if you think this is classless, they don’t mind taking handouts.
Get more of Tom’s insights by following him on Twitter @thurlow
The views, opinions and positions expressed by the authors and those providing comments on these articles are theirs alone, and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or positions of The Cheltenham Standard
12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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REAL MONOPOLY MONEY AT LAST MANUFACTURERS of Monopoly are to celebrate a key anniversary by making 80 sets containing real money in France. Hasbro is marking the 80th anniversary of Monopoly's first appearance in France by making one set containing a total of 20,580 euros (£15,500). Another ten sets will contain five real 20-
CoffeeBreak Your Weekly HOROSCOPES
euro notes, two 50-euro notes and one 100euro note. And the remaining 69 sets will have five 10-euro notes and five 20-euro notes. The 80 lucky sets are hidden within 30,000 boxes of different types of game classic, junior, electronic and ‘vintage’. “We wanted to do something unique,” said Florence Gaillard, brand manager at Hasbro France. “When we asked our French customers, they told us they wanted to find real money in their Monopoly boxes.” The operation to switch the notes was carried out in secret, in the eastern town of Creutzwald, where the games are packed up before being shipped throughout France.
ARIES (March 20 – April 18): Is what you're hearing more applicable to the person saying it? You may be the unconscious hook for his issues. Smile and nod in all the right places as you make your way to the nearest exit. TAURUS (April 19 – May 19): A friend or associate is going through a rough patch. It's your turn to be there for someone who once came through for you. GEMINI (May 20 – June 20): It may feel like you're taking three steps back at work, but a return to basics is the very thing that can help to reorient you now. CANCER (June 21 – July 21): An associate's fear of confrontation mixes with your fear of rejection to create a perfect storm of misunderstanding. Put your cards on the table. It's not as bad as you think.
Nike shaped crisp for sale A BRIGHTON man who found a Pringle crisp with what looks like a Nike swoosh in it is selling the snack on eBay. The 22-year-old seller, known as only Rob, hopes the mis-shaped Pringle will prove a money spinner on the auction website. He said: “I was having some crisps after work one day when I saw it, one of the last crisps the packet, and thought: ‘That's odd’.” Rob claims the snack is completely natural and has not been tampered with
StandOKU!
in any way, and says he put it on eBay because he “wanted people to see it”. But he admitted that it had proved quite a challenge not to have eaten the paprika Lidl Pringle as it was one of his favourite flavours. He promises to wrap the “one off specimen” in several layers of tissue and bubble wrap to ensure it remains in one piece during delivery to the auction winner. However, so far, it doesn’t look like the distinctive crisp will make him a rich man - bidding has so far reached only £7.50.
1
2
3
LEO (July 22 – Aug 21): Differences aren't so irreconcilable. This just
Word Ladder Convert the word at the top of the ladder into the word at the bottom of it, using only the four steps in between. Every word must be a valid four letter word.
4
5
6
Difficulty rating: Moderate
5 7 8 4 9
1 2 6 4
7
8 3 6 9 1 6
8
E R N S E T F D A
9 10
11
12
3 9 2 6 5 2 2 1 8 9 4 5 6 5 1 3 7
TARGET
8
Make as many words of four letters or more as you can. Each word must contain the center letter and each letter must only be used once. Target: 20 words good; 35 very good; 40+ excellent.
13 14
15
17 19 22
24
16
18
20
21 23
25
Last week’s solutions (5th January 2015): Across: 1 Copal; 4 Recipes; 8 Overall; 9 Scion; 10 Eyes; 11 Hesitate; 13 Ruth; 14 Tree; 16 Remained; 17 Apes; 20 Ennui; 21 Charade; 22 Sledges; 23 Heels. Down: 1 Close quarters; 2 Piece; 3 Loaf; 4 Roller; 5 Cashiers; 6 Private; 7 Senselessness; 12 Striking; 13 Romance; 15 Fences; 18 Plane; 19 Oath.
isn't the time to resolve them. A partner will approach you when s/he is ready. VIRGO (Aug 22 – Sept 21): It's no fun having someone birddog you at work, but look at it this way - it keeps you on your toes. LIBRA (Sept 22 – Oct 22): You've pushed a relationship as far as it will go. If you don't want it to break down all together, you'd best start backpedaling now. SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21): You've gone through a lot to keep your home together. Take pride in the way you rose to the occasion. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 20): An
eleventh hour assist gets you over a hurdle. Don't relax yet. You may still need one more favor in the eleventh hour and fifty-ninth minute.
CAPRICORN (Dec 21 – Jan 18): Sometimes the best investments are personal rather than financial. Helping people help themselves ensures the favor will be returned one day. AQUARIUS (Jan 19 – Feb 17): You can't always pick and choose your allegiances. Stick by those who supported you - even if you don't like what they're doing. PISCES (Feb 18 – March 19): It doesn't take much for a speculation to be repackaged as fact. Consider the source. You may find that the truth has been greatly embellished.
KICK
PASS
BALL
DIVE
CRYPTIC Crossword ACROSS
DOWN
7. Adopts a new stance and establishes law (6) 8. Went one better - made an international (6) 10. One glass and he fails to stand up (7) 11. Clipped a piece from the intersection (5) 12. The right writing material for a slippery surface (4) 13. To be of use as part of a bridal outfit, by the sound of it (5) 17. Deceptive movement not clearly seen, we hear (5) 18. Very small, soft cry (4) 22. Take steps to show tyre marking (5) 23. No particular date for transforming an amenity (7) 24. Measures acting as restraints (6) 25. The one who pulls out the ticket returns for the prize (6)
1. An ash-tree badly affected by the elements (7) 2. Train me to change gear (7) 3. See 19 Down. 4. Barker, when pleased, will do this for a bird! (7) 5. Not connected with a stage role (5) 6. Seed scattered round the end of flowering borders (5) 9. Supply conclusive evidence the clan altered French dialect (9) 14. The road to the cemetery? (4-3) 15. One faced with a big bill (7) 16. Disseminates advertisement in press arrangement (7) 19 And 3 Down. Cattle even now not moving (5-5) 20. This makes part of a rose paler (5) 21. We hear they're unbelievable instruments (5)
OPENING TIMES: Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm, Saturday 10am - 4pm, Sunday 10am - 2pm
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12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
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PROPERTY&HOME
Room for hugs from your home this VALENTINES ROMANCE is a funny old thing; it can sneak up on you, hit you like a thunderbolt, or just be tantalisingly out of reach, but there's one place where it's all too easy to feel the love - at home. Rooms which are cosy, cherishing and cosseting are as good as a hug on a cold winter's day, while those dressed with tactile 'touch-me' textures and sensual curves seduce the senses. Similarly, while love comes in all shapes and sizes, so do settings, and there are several looks to fall for, which could appeal if you're flirting, infatuated or totally committed to a romantic decor choice. If all things amour set your heart racing, be inspired this February 14th and use the red of those classic love tokens, hearts and roses, as a decor cue. Pastel pinks and pretty touches are for those with a head-overheels crush on fashionable boudoir style, while neutral tones, skilfully embellished
with decorative accents, are so subtle that they have a timeless appeal. So don't wait for love to come knocking simply romance the rooms! Forever associated with 'girly' girls, those blushing, pink shades are for those who love all things flirty and feminine. “Pink velvets, shimmering glass and the sheen of fashionable metallics capture the new romantic spirit,” says Stephanie Chen, director of Marks & Spencer's home division. “A sumptuous and indulgent collection of statement pieces play a key role in our new collection for homes. Traditional touches in ceramic and lace create a soft, feminine mood, ending on a vibrant range of pretty pastel colour pops in modern digi-prints and chic classic styles. “A combination of decadent pink velvet and striking copper conjures an elegant, yet chic look, that is the epitome of the trend for 2015.” There's nowhere more suitable for romance than the bedroom, and this space should be a cocoon where relaxation and seduction is easy. Naturally, a well-dressed bed is essential, and Emma Bridgewater's new Hearts & Flowers bed linen set is particularly appropriate in pale pink and white. Double
Duvet Cover, £55, available from midMarch (visit www.ashleywildegroup.co.uk for stockists). Remember also that bursts of passion are exciting in a relationship - and bold colours enliven rooms. Consider painting a piece of furniture in your favourite red shade, and add pops of red - ‘kisses’ making your home a haven of love and romance this Valentines.
House prices see slight change UK house prices rose 2pc to £193,130 from December to January, the strongest monthly growth rate for eight months, according to new data from The Halifax House Price Index. The value of the average British home in the last three months (November to January) was 1.9pc higher than in the previous three months (August to October), the first quarterly increase for six months, following a sudden pick-up in demand for home loans as prospective movers and firsttime buyers took advantage of yet more record low mortgage offers. Martin Ellis, economist at The Halifax, said: “This bounce-back in house price growth in January coincides with reports of the first rise in mortgage approvals for six months in December. These improvements may indicate that the recent declines in mortgage rates, the reform of stamp duty and the first increases in real earnings for several years are providing a modest boost to the market.” The Halifax forecast that nationally, house prices will increase in a range of 3% to 5% in 2015 compared with 8% last year. “We should take this price rise as a sign that house prices in the UK are returning towards trend; stable and moderately ahead of inflation. This is good news for the market, which could use a dose of relative calm after the past few years,” said Adam Challis, head of residential research for JLL.
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NATURALS
Hartley & Tissier • Brintons • Alternative flooring • Jacaranda
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THE PARK
£750,000
A five bedroom detached family house in a highly sought after residential area within easy reach of a good local school, Montpellier and the town centre. Its generous accommodation comprises in brief a spacious entrance hall, a living room, dining room, a study, a modern fitted kitchen, utility room, downstairs cloakroom, a wonderfully large conservatory enjoying views over the garden, five bedrooms, an en-suite to the master bedroom and a family bathroom. Further benefits include gas fired central heating, double glazing, a jolly good sized rear garden with a leafy aspect, off road parking for numerous vehicles and a double garage with electronically operated doors. EPC:D
ULLENWOOD
£375,000
Occupying a semi-rural location with useful commuter access to Cheltenham, Gloucester and views over the surrounding countryside is this spacious and versatile three bedroom period cottage with the potential to create an adjoining annexe/home office. Offering a wealth of character features its well presented accommodation comprises in brief an entrance hall, living room with an attractive fireplace, dining room, a fitted kitchen, utility, three bedrooms and a bathroom. Benefits include oil fired central heating, a substantial adjoining former stable block currently arranged as dog kennels but offering scope for conversion into an annexe/home office subject to the necessary consents, a good-sized mature garden overlooking open countryside and off road parking for several vehicles. EPC:F
PRESTBURY
£450,000
Set in a wonderfully tucked away spot within a highly sought after residential area is this remarkably versatile four/five bedroom modern end of terrace house with easy access to local shops and countryside. Its well-presented accommodation, over three floors, is surprisingly spacious and on the ground floor comprises an entrance vestibule, a generous hall, shower room, utility room and a wonderfully open plan kitchen/dining/family room that opens to the landscaped rear garden. The first floor offers a large living room opening into a study area and two possible bedrooms. Above there is a master bedroom with a dressing room and an en-suite, two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Additional benefits include gas fired central heating, double glazing, an integral garage and off road parking. EPC:D
CHARLTON KINGS
£525,000
A beautifully presented four bedroom Grade II listed farmhouse with a wealth of fine character features in a sought after residential area. Its well-proportioned accommodation comprises in brief an entrance hall, a living room with an inglenook fireplace, a dining room with an open fireplace, a fitted kitchen/breakfast room, a study, four good sized bedrooms, an en-suite shower room to the guest bedroom and a family bathroom with a shower over the bath. Additional benefits of this remarkable period property, featured in the Period Living magazine, include gas fired central heating, a large garden with a summer house, a workshop and off road parking.
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SOUTHAM
£595,000
An extended detached house with a self-contained annexe, a large rear garden backing onto fields and marvellous views to Cheltenham Racecourse and the Malvern Hills. The principal dwelling comprises in brief an entrance hall, a dining room, a generous living room with a feature fireplace leading to a sitting area, a garden room, a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, a downstairs cloakroom, three double bedrooms, the master with access to a roof terrace, a family bathroom, shower room, a walk-in shower and a cloakroom. In addition the annexe offers a living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and a conservatory. Further benefits include gas fired central heating, double glazing and off road parking for numerous vehicles. EPC:D
Nigel Errington-Smith
Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL52 2AB
Prestbury Road, Prestbury GL52 3DD
£280,000
£460,000
A luxury ground floor apartment set in this period style building built in 2006. High ceilings and sash windows coupled with a fully fitted kitchen and en-suite all add to the charm.
An imposing Five bed Georgian home, having been stripped back to brick and then sympathetically restored by the current owners. This is a must see.
Selkirk Street Cheltenham GL52 2HH £1250 pcm Quite Possibly the Highest Specification Two Bedroom House in Pittville. Unique and quirky best describe this house.
Overton Park Road, Cheltenham GL50 3BW £112,500 A second floor apartment situated in this imposing period villa. Conveniently located close to popular 'Montpellier' this studio would make an ideal first buy or investment
Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7NG £700 pcm A Brand New Large One Bedroom Apartment in the Heart of Popular Leckhampton
Badminton Road, Gloucester GL4 6AY £115,000 We advise an offer has been placed on 80 Badminton Road, Gloucester, GL4 6AY for the sum of £115,000. Any person’s wishing to place a higher offer must do so within 7 days in writing to Elliot Oliver Sales and Letttings, 101 Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW.
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CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
MOTORING BEING SMALL IS STILL SMART GIVEN that the ForTwo is Smart's 'really small' car, you'd be forgiven for thinking the ForFour was practically a family wagon. But no, it's only the same size as a Skoda Citigo albeit a very different sort of attack on the city car sector. You get four doors, four seats and a tiny boot that can be cleverly expanded in several different ways. A rear-mounted engine takes a lot of potential boot space away, so as standard it's smaller than a Citigo or Hyundai i10, but it has more flexible seating to create surprising space if you want it. Even if you choose the basic model and the least colourful interior, the Smart is still a bit 'look at me!'. You just choose how bright and funky you want it, and thanks to multiple options for the fabric-covered dashboard and trim inserts, you're never going to be short of something to brighten your day. It's a unique thing to look at, with a front end by Barn Door Styling Ltd and a two-tone paint job that traces the special safety cell making both Smart cars so strong in crash situations. While the boot is pretty miniature to start with, the two rear seats fold flat in an instant
Old, but now very new UNLIKE with some model updates where it’s impossible to tell what’s been changed, with Ford’s revamped Focus Estate, there’s no mistaking old for new here. The first thing that greets you is Ford’s new corporate nose - think Aston Martin for the people. But there’s more to the Focus than just some added bling, as the car now packs some impressive safety and convenience kit, tweaked ride and handling characteristics plus engines that are more than worthy of Ford’s hype. In keeping with the Fiesta and Mondeo, the Focus sports a new nose that looks suspiciously similar to something you might find on an Aston Martin. Whatever your view, the bold new snout is a genuine head-turner and does much to boost the
to give a flat and broad load bay. The front passenger seat folds too, to allow long, thin objects of up to 2.2 metres. Brilliant for plumbers carrying copper piping, one assumes. Or active types with surfboards or skis. The rear seat cushions even flip and collapse to a lower position, turning the rear passenger area into a ‘boot’ big enough to take a 50-inch TV. Rear doors that open to a marvellous 85 degrees help with loading and unloading, whether the cargo is oversized electronics or undersized humans. There are a couple of handy storage compartments squeezed into the cabin, but the glove box is all-but-useless and the cup holders ahead of the gear stick allow drinks bottles to flop around and interfere with shifts. The big selling point is a super-tight turning circle. It's nowhere near as hilarious as the ForTwo's black cab-beating efforts, but it's class-leading anyway. Parallel parking becomes a mere trifle in the daily grind of commuting.
car’s premium look and feel. And it’s this angle that Ford is most keen to develop, as the firm aspires to move its models increasingly upmarket. As the wagon of the family, you can expect the Focus Estate to swallow pretty much anything you throw at it. The car’s low loading lip, easy open tailgate and flat load bay all conspire to make life exceptionally easy when shifting large or heavy items. This versatile theme continues inside the cabin, with both front and rear occupants offered good levels of space. If you don’t fancy a conventional people carrier or SUV, the Focus Estate could easily fulfil the bulk of your family-related duties with ease. It’s not down to luck that the Focus is routinely held up as a benchmark when it comes to driver enjoyment, as Ford expends a considerable amount of effort in this department. The car’s facelift status has resulted in a raft of detailed tweaks to
FACTS AT A GLANCE Not even the turbocharged version is quick, so forget any delusions of grandeur, and the steering and chassis responses have been tuned for slow reactions. Better for stability and safety, Smart says, and they do technically have a point. It rides and drives like a bigger car thanks to new suspension tech inspired by the Mercedes C-Class. There's more suspension travel and greater control than in the old model, although the steering stays very light even at speed. There's a very valid case for buying the biggest Smart, but at the increased price you really do have to want one a lot. It's got the quirk factor, as well as solid and
enhance the experience for keen drivers and boost refinement for everyone else in the cabin. From suspension and steering changes to soundproofing tweaks, Ford has taken a fine tooth comb to the Focus in a bid to bring it closer to premium class cars costing considerably more. And then there’s the Blue Oval’s continued development of its engine range. New for the Focus is a 1.5-litre diesel to complement the existing petrol equivalent, while a 1.0-litre petrol unit has also been introduced. Load-luggers will no doubt appreciate the diesel’s 120 horsepower, 98g/km CO2 rating and the prospect of 70-odd mpg. That it’s smooth, refined and capable is more than a bonus. Whichever variant you choose, Ford has upped the ante with more standard kit, improved economy and emissions plus an impressive choice of hi-tech extras covering safety and convenience. Plus, with the car’s cabin ambience having been raised, the added premium ‘feel’ is immediately obvious and does much to convince occupants they are in a
Car Body Repairs MOT’s Car Servicing
SMART FORFOUR PROXY 90, FROM £12,910 Engine: Turbocharged threecylinder petrol producing 89bhp and 100lb/ft Transmission: Five-speed manual driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 103mph, 062mph in 11.2 seconds Fuel Economy: Approx 65mpg (TBC) Emissions: 99g/km
safe engineering under the skin. It's a fashion statement that eclipses most of its more sober confederates and stands out in a way that plenty of people are likely to engage with.
higher class of car. If the current crop of compact SUVs and people carriers leave you cold or you need a conventional load-lugger, the Focus Estate is hard to ignore. It can’t match the latter for overall cabin versatility, but as compromises go the Focus wagon is a competent, affordable and well-equipped alternative. It’ll likely drive better than either alternatives - something the Focus range is famous for.
FACTS AT A GLANCE CITROEN FORD FOCUS ESTATE 1.5 TDCI 120PS TITANIUM, £22,095 Engine: 1.5-litre petrol unit producing 120bhp Transmission: 6-speed manual driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 120mph, 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds Fuel Economy: 74.3mpg combined Emissions: 98g/km of CO2
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12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
37
SPORT
Six Nations 2015 ROUNDUP
Results: WALES 16 ENGLAND 21; FRANCE 15 SCOTLAND 8; ITALY 3 IRELAND 26 Fixtures: Saturday: England v Italy (2.30pm); Ireland v France (5pm). Sunday: Scotland v Wales (3pm)
More late heartache for Cheltenham RUGBY UNION
Cheltenham 11 Barton Hill 15 IT WAS a case of déjà vu for Cheltenham as they were denied a valuable home win with Barton Hill grabbing a winning converted try four minutes from the final whistle for the second time this season. It meant that the home side slipped closer to the relegation zone in Western Counties North. Cheltenham welcomed back captain James Hillier, but it was Barton Hill who opened their account with a Ollie Norwell penalty after referee Ryan Owen had indicated hands in the ruck. Cheltenham squandered a chance two minutes later to draw level as Zac Atallah, playing his last game before returning to Australia, missed a 30 penalty from in front of the posts. Despite Barton’s territorial advantage it was Cheltenham who scored next to draw level when Atallah
kicked a penalty after 18 minutes. Barton were led in the pack by former Bristol and Gloucestershire player Ian Patten and they were rewarded for a prolonged attack on the Cheltenham line when Ben Elliott dotted down for a unconverted try and a narrow 8-3 lead. The visitors continued to have the upper hand, but in the 37th minute they were penalised and Atallah stepped to kick his last points for Cheltenham to narrow the arrears to 8-6. This score inspired Cheltenham into some enterprising open rugby with Ben Constantine to the fore. But it was Rhys Edwards, normally a flanker or second row forward, playing on the left wing such are Cheltenham’s player shortages, who scored a fine unconverted try in the corner to give his side a 11-8 lead at the half-time whistle. Buoyed by the last score, Cheltenham started strongly and looked to have scored a well worked try for Edwards early in the second half but referee Owen adjudged the final
pass to be forward. Barton aregained the upper hand for long periods, bombarding the Cheltenham try line and after 76 minutes scoring the winning try through Ian Bickford, with the boot of Norwell sealing the win for the visitors just like he did at the start of the season. Cheltenham slip to ninth place with a tough rearranged home game against fourth placed Chew Valley on Saturday. CHELTENHAM: Moore, Herbert, Gilder, Barrowcliffe, Milne, Hillier, Pickles, Athey, Beeney, Atallah, Edwards, Brookes, Constantine, Morris, Lockhart. Reps: Compton, S Haskayne, J Haskayne. BARTON HILL: Maynard, Dickenson, Hopkins, N Yasoumi, Chase, Bickford, Elliott, Patten, Rankin, Coote, Wiltshire, Steer, Grey, Sansum, Norwell. Reps: Parker, Stone, Chapple. REFEREE: Ryan Owen.
Cheltenham Swimming and Water Polo Club are British Water Polo League Champions WATER POLO
A WIN over Lancaster in late January saw the side win the league and the team is now going for the double. The town side currently sit top of their group in the British Water Polo Championship, the water polo equivalent of the league Cup in football, with four games left to play in the group stage. The last two seasons have seen the club win the League and Cup but never in the same season. Last season they missed out on the league by just one point, but they won the cup, and in 2013 they won the league but lost out on the cup! The cup competitions also provide the only opportunity for competitive home games for the Cheltenham side, as the league is played at centralised shared venues. The need for an all deep pool means the side play home games at GL1 in Gloucester, despite training at Leisure@ in Cheltenham. Attendance at the last game was fantastic, with the stands nearing capacity the atmosphere was electric.
North suffer narrow home defeat as Ledbury exact revenge RUGBY UNION
Cheltenham North Ledbury
19 21
A MUCH improved Ledbury side came to Stoke Road looking to avenge the six try drubbing they received earlier in the season. North came out of the blocks quickly and from the kick-off applied pressure. Retaining the ball well with their runners coming from deep they were punching holes and having sucked in the defence – quick hands in the centre put winger Ian Parker clear. He stepped off his left foot and wove his way through four defenders to score under the posts. Charlie McKegney added the extra points. By now Ledbury were getting into the game and, with both sides willing to play open rugby, it was turning into an entertaining contest. North then suffered a setback with injury forcing Dan Hewitt to leave the field. His strength and physical presence were a loss and now their scrum was suddenly under pressure and conceding penalties. Ledbury converted one to pull the score back to 7-3. The momentum of the game had changed and now it was Ledbury's turn to pound away at the North line, but the defence held, and a thunderous tackle from Rich Hance on the stroke of half-time dislodged the ball from the attacker and
brought proceedings to a close. North regrouped and after the restart scored the try of the match: George Terry came into the centre from the right wing to make a superb outside break, putting Ian Parker clear. This time he was caught just short of the line but Danny Thomas was, as ever, on hand to pick up the ball and score. North were still under pressure in the tight and it wasn't long before Ledbury converted pressure into points with a well worked try of their own to make it 12-8. Hewitt returned to the field but then shortly afterwards they were down to 14 men having suffered a yellow card. North's seven man pack continued to suffer in the tight and it wasn't long before Ledbury made the numerical advantage count and scored their second try. The conversion took the score to 15-12. The home side were back to full strength and began to reassert themselves but then a second yellow card took away the momentum. Ledbury kicked the ensuing penalty and then added another which meant the North now needed to score twice to win. Back to full strength they managed half the job when, Adam Dove capped a very fine game by crossing for their third try. Charlie McKegney converted but time had run out.
Panthers stretch unbeaten run NETBALL
The clubs next home game will be on February 21 at GL1 against Sheffield. A unique opportunity to watch top level sport, in a local venue, with a great atmosphere, at only £2 entry for adults and £1 for children. With face painting and free noise makers for children and a licensed bar for adults it makes a great evening's entertainment. Gates open from 5.15pm with a junior game and the main event starts at 6.30pm. As well as the Men’s first team,
CSWPC also run two other men's teams, a women’s and junior team at all age groups, as well as an after schools club at Leisure@. The after schools club runs every Tuesday from 4.30pm for kids from seven to 13 years, and is a great way for children to be introduced to the sport, as well as building water confidence, following swimming lessons. For more information about the teams please follow them on social media @cs_wpc on twitter or www.Facebook.com/ CSWPC.
HUCCLECOTE Panthers played at Exeter University against Lawn and Team Bath, emerging victorious with two outstanding performances. They swept Lawn aside in the first 15 minutes going out at a phenomenal pace and taking a 16-4 lead. The starting line- up of Emme Hale, Jane Taylor and Lucy Martin in attack played at lightning pace. The back trio of Ella PowellDavies, Izzy Robinson and Caitlin Santacroce kept the pressure on. The half-time score of 27-13 in Panthers’ favour saw more changes from the Hucclecote bench with Jodie Emms making her debut appearance at this level at WA.
Eve Saunders also took the GK bib to help take the score up to 39-24 at the end of the third quarter. Further changes saw Robinson and Martin back on, and with Elisha New moving to WA, the re-arranged line-up didn't stop Hucclecote from winning ways as they took a convincing 50-33 win. After a short break, they took to the court for their second game against a very tall and strong looking Bath side and won 52-34, leaving them clear leaders at the top of the South West England Regional table. Still unbeaten, they face another tough challenge on Sunday when they have another double header, meeting Ferndown and Bath at Dorcan Sports Centre in Swindon
38
CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
SPORT Morrissey smashes in seven as Lions close in on another title
Local Sport
Mitres sunk by Norris hat-trick COUNTY FOOTBALL
YOUTH FOOTBALL
Southside Lions U11 9 St Marks U11 0 SOUTHSIDE Lions Under 11’s continued their march to their third consecutive league title with a nine goal romp against newly promoted St Mark’s. Lions’ first goal came from a Harry Duncan corner that was met sweetly by Callum Morrissey (pictured) with a bullet header. Morrissey made it two with another superb header from a George Cuzner corner. Cuzner was upended in the box but his penalty was brilliantly saved by St Mark’s goalkeeper Riley Meegan. Rewczuk made it three from distance after a good flick on from Morrissey, and Morrissey made it four from his head and his hat-trick when he flicked on from a Cuzner free-kick. Cuzner made it five when he took down a Tom Peck cross with his right and fired in with his left.
Morrissey's fourth come from a S c h o fi e l d through ball that he placed in with his right and his fifth was a carbon copy finding the bottom corner. Morrissey's sixth came after he latched on to a ball from Scooter Edwards, once again clinical from outside the box, and his seventh and the Lions’ ninth came from persistence from Jameson. Edwards had a shot and the goalkeeper parried, but Morrissey showed all his goal scoring instincts to fire in. Morrissey is one goal away from his 100th goal for the Lions in the league and cup since they started league football two seasons ago.
Bishop’s Cleeve Larkhall Athletic
1 4
BISHOP’S Cleeve suffered their 21st defeat of the season as play-off hopefuls Larkhall completed a win double over the Mitres. Boss Steve Cleal was without the injured Jack Oldham, Sol Wheatley and the suspended Allton Axton so in came Ashley Jones, Mike Sholly and Josh Ward as they looked to achieve back-to-back wins for the first time this term. Any such thoughts were dashed when with only seven minutes played Matt Magee tripped midfielder Joe Tumelty and the referee pointed to the spot.
Loan goalkeeper from Cheltenham Town Matt Gould got a hand to Brad Norris' penalty, but he could not keep it out. Midway through the first half Cleeve registered their first effort on goal when a good delivery by Aaron Drake was forced away by goalkeeper Josh Barrington. On 34 minutes Larkhall doubled their lead when a Tumelty cross was only temporarily cleared and Rob Hobbs drove the ball home from the edge of the area. The second half picked saw a change in system for Cleeve as they looked to try to get back into the game. But on 73 and 75 minutes they ended the game as a contest with two quick goals from Norris, who celebrated a hat-trick at
Kayte Lane. Cleeve substitute Christian Boateng pulled one back late on when he and Jack Watts latched onto a through ball and he bundled in from close range Boateng and Larkhall captain Ollie Price were both dismissed late on for violent conduct. Boateng retaliated to a foul by pushing fullback Ross Lye to the ground and from the resulting free-kick Price was dismissed for an off the ball incident. • Goals from Jack Watts and Nathan Summers earned Bishop's Cleeve a 2-1 home win over Tiverton Town on Tuesday night, keeping their survival hopes alive. They play Wimborne Town away on Saturday.
Lions: Schofield, Inward, Groom, Hitchins, Peck, Cuzner, Duncan, Morrissey, Jameson, Hunt, Edwards, Rewczuk, Yordanov.
High demand for Festival tickets HORSE RACING CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE
Demand for the Best Mate Enclosure has been particularly strong this year, with tickets selling out three weeks earlier than in 2014. Ticket sales for the first three days of The Festival are also going well, with sales in hospitality boxes particularly strong. The Panoramic, Moscow Flyer and Final Fence restaurants are sold out on every day of The Festival. Ian Renton, Regional Director for the south west region of The Jockey Club, said: “Ticket sales for The Festival are going really well with the Best Mate enclo-
sure on Gold Cup Day sold out about three weeks ahead of last year. “I would expect this to have an impact on the two other enclosures and for the sold out signs on Gold Cup Day to go out in advance. “We have seen strong hospitality sales across all our different restaurants, at all price levels and I hope for this pattern to continue as we run into The Festival in five weeks' time.” The Festival takes place from Tuesday, March 10 until Friday, March, 13. For further information, or to book tickets, please visit www.cheltenham.co.uk or call 0844 579 3003.
Youth League appeals for volunteers to come forward CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL
THE Cheltenham Youth Football League is in urgent need of new volunteers to join its committee and help safeguard its future. The league currently provides football for over 160 teams and nearly 3,000 children. “As with any voluntary organisation, the day to day operation only works effectively with the support of people willing to give up their time,” fixtures secretary Denise Pates said. “Over the years we have been extremely fortunate to recruit sufficient volunteers to sit on the management committee and deliver an excellent League for the clubs and in turn the
children participating. “The members of the League's committee do an excellent job and as a result I believe that this had led to the steady and continued growth of the League to where we currently are. “As the League has grown, so has the time commitment, however the numbers working on the committee has not, in fact it has shrunk. “Despite our best efforts to encourage new recruits to the committee over the course of the last few seasons, we have had little success. This situation cannot continue.” There are a variety of roles that must be filled as existing committee members either retire (six are retiring in May) or take a step back from their current roles.
The following roles are essential to the continued operation of the league: league secretary, league treasurer, charter standard co-ordinator, three ex-officio members and two trustees. “We are at least eight people short and conceivably could find jobs for another couple of volunteers,” Denise said. “Without at least the first two vacancies being filled, I believe we would struggle to receive sanction from the GFA to run any football at all next season. “I cannot stress enough how critically important this is, we really do need your help at this critical stage of the League’s development.” If you can help, please email denisepates@gmail.com.
12 FEBRUARY 2015 CHELTENHAM STANDARD
39
SPORT
Local Football
Cheltenham League round-up Fintans number three Alan Wiltshire joining his team mates in celebrating a goal
PHOTO: LYDIA VINEY
THERE were a host of surprise results last weekend in the Cheltenham League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Cheltenham Ford, as the team sharpen their focus on the business end of the season. The biggest surprise of the weekend, and possibly the season to date, came in Division Two where Northleach Town, who were rock bottom with just a single draw to show for their efforts this season, travelled to and beat league leader Staunton and Corse. The 5-4 victory for Town was only the second time Corse had been beaten in the league this season. Defeat for Corse opened the way for Cheltenham Civil Service Reserves who moved back to the top of the table courtesy of a superior goal difference after they beat strugglers Shurdington Rovers 5-1. Corse still have three games in hand on Service but this defeat will give a glimmer of hope to the teams around them. With Corse and Service taking a break next weekend, third placed FC Barometrics Reserves could move level on points with the top two if they beat Andoversford who themselves are still in contention for the title. At the bottom Northleach will hope to build on last weekend’s excellent result when they face eighth placed Southside. The chase for the Division One title took another twist as leader FC Lakeside were held to a 3-3 draw at Upton Town. The dropped points mean that Whaddon United, who beat Hanley Swan 5-2, are now just a point behind with a game in hand. The two meet on Saturday in the weekend's big game. Whilst there will still be at least eight league games left to play, the winners will claim a big advantage and move into pole position in the race for the title. While the leaders in the divisions above were dropping points the same could not be said for Welland who stay top of Division Three following a 4-0 win over Fintan. Leckhampton Rovers stay in second place following an impressive 7-0 hammering of Newlands Athletic. Despite sitting in eight place this was Athletic’s first league defeat of the season. Saturday sees Welland face third placed Brockworth Albion Reserves.
A four point lead at the top means Welland will still be leaders come 5pm on Saturday but dropped points will provide encouragement to the teams around them. At the bottom Shurdington Rovers Reserves are nine points adrift of the next placed team. They face Gala Wilton III on Saturday and whilst they still have 11 league games left to play they know that time is running out if they are to avoid bottom spot. It is as you are in Division Four with the top two, Northway and Apperley, both winning. Apperley trail the table toppers by three points although they do have a game in hand. Northway’s superior goal difference is worth an extra point currently however with nine games still to play Apperley are more than capable of closing that gap. This weekend both teams face opposition in the lower end of the table and will be confident of taking maximum points. The same can be said of third placed Cheltenham Civil Service III who will still feel they are in contention for the title. Cheltenham Athletic remain top of Division Five following their 3-1 win over FC Barometric III. With second placed FC Lakeside and third placed Cheltenham Civil Service IV also winning. The battle at the top remains intense with just two points separating the three teams. Civil Service have two games in hand on the leaders and a game in hand on Lakeside. Having already drawn their two matches against Lakeside, the two matches against Athletic could go a long way to deciding the title. This weekend Service face fourth placed Andoversford Reserves and know they will need to win if they are to maintain their pressure at the top. Andoversford go into the game off the back of a 4-0 defeat of bottom club Sherborne Harriers and Service manager Simon Greenwood knows his team face a tough challenge if they are to take all three points. The big game of the weekend was in Division Six where the top two went head to head as leaders Fintan Reserves hosted Malvern Vale. Fintan topped the table by a point having played a game more than Vale although the second placed team went into the game with a 100 percent record having won all eight of their league games. After a slow start it was Fintan
who drew first blood, opening the scoring when their forward latched onto a long ball and headed over the advancing keeper. The goal drew an immediate response from Vale. A corner from Toby Ireland was met by Chris King who slipped his marker and headed it at the near post. With the spoils even at half-time it was Vale who started the second half stronger and they were soon rewarded for their efforts. Ireland played in Daniel Stowe and despite seeing his original effort saved he was able to follow up and bundle the ball over the line to give the visitors the lead. With Vale pushing to extend their
when King was unable to get his head on the cross the ball fell to a Fintan player who had the simple task of heading home from six yards out. Despite dominating Malvern’s Chris King after the goal Fintan who scored their first goal were unable to add to (white shirt) their goal tally. With the game ending 2-2 there lead Stowe then turned provider as was still time for one last drama as he squared the ball to Aaron Grif- Vale’s Ashley Jones saw red after fiths however his goal bound effort picking up a second yellow for foul was deflected wide. and abusive language during the When a goal did come it was the post game handshake. The result hosts who drew level. A free-kick in means Fintan remain top with Vale the Fintan half was played long and still hot on their heels. PHOTO: LYDIA VINEY
CHELTENHAM LEAGUE FOOTBALL
Cheltenham Football League, sponsored by Bristol Street Motors Ford Cheltenham
PLAYER PROFILE OF THE WEEK This week we feature Joe Egleton who plays for Newlands Athletic. Winning Division Six in their inaugural season, Athletic have gone on to claim successive promotions, starting the season in Division Three. Despite only losing one league game to date they currently sit eighth in the table after drawing five.
Nickname: Joey Cheltenham Position: Goalkeeper, centreback, centre midfield Previous clubs: Bishop’s Cleeve, Newton FC, Tewkesbury Rovers, Bredon and Newlands AFC Most memorable game: First appearance in the FA Cup for Bishop’s Cleeve Worst game: Against Slimbridge for Cleeve – two sloppy back passes by me and we
lost in the last minute Toughest opponents: Cheltenham Patriots FC Best club player: As I'm player manager I wouldn't like to comment Team Supported: Portsmouth Favourite player: Not a player, but my hero Mr Pompey FC (John Westwood) pictured inset with me at Cheltenham
40
CHELTENHAM STANDARD 12 FEBRUARY 2015
with JON PALMER, SPORTS EDITOR
SPORT
DEFIANT BUCKLE VOWS TO TURN AROUND AILING ROBINS’ FORTUNES
PHOTO: THOUSAND WORD MEDIA
jon@cheltenhamstandard.co.uk
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AUL Buckle has vowed to battle on and turn Cheltenham Town’s fortunes around after watching them slip closer to the drop zone with a 2-0 defeat at Southend United on Tuesday night. It came three days after they were beaten 3-1 at home by Burton Albion and the pressure is mounting, with the Robins now only one point clear of the bottom two ahead of Saturday’s visit of Bury. “It’s hard to take at the moment, but I believe I am still the man to take the club forward,” Buckle said. “One thing that gave me hope was the players’ efforts on Tuesday, but I do understand the supporters’ frustrations. “We have to keep working
hard and stick together because I took over a club going in the wrong direction and I am doing my best to improve it. “The best chance to do that was with new players signing, but they have to bed in and the spirit in the squad is still there.” Both Southend goals came from on-loan Charlton Athletic front man Joe Pigott in the first half. Buckle made two changes to the side beaten by Burton. In came Eliot Richards for his first start up front with Denny Johnstone as Mathieu Manset dropped out, while Crystal Palace loanee Jake Gray was preferred to Matt Richards in the left midfield role. Liverpool youngster Lloyd Jones missed out through
injury and Lee Vaughan was left in the stand, with Omari Sterling-James and Jack Deaman promoted to substitutes' bench. Cheltenham carved out the first chance of the night when Jordan Wynter set up Richards, who travelled into the box, but his shot crashed into the side netting. But Southend soon took control and opened the scoring in the ninth minute when John White's cross was met by Jake Cassidy. His effort was well blocked by Trevor Carson, but Pigott followed up with a simple finish to give Phil Brown's side the lead. Carson made a diving save to keep out Michael Timlin's shot in the 22nd minute, but he could do nothing about Southend's
second in the 34th minute. After a foul by skipper Matt Taylor, Ben Coker's free-kick was headed in powerfully by Pigott for another simple goal that left the travelling fans shaking their heads in disbelief. Southend nearly netted a third before half-time, with White's stopping header from Coker's cross rebounding off the left post with Carson beaten. Cheltenham's best effort of the night game two minutes into the second half when Taylor's header from Gray's corner was cleared off the line by Timlin. The game fizzled out, with Cheltenham showing a minor improvement after the break but Southend goalkeeper Daniel Bentley was only called into action
once, scooping away an attempt from substitute Zack Kotwica in the 82nd minute. SOUTHEND UNITED: Bentley; White, BinnomWilliams, Thompson, Coker (Barrett 67); Atkinson, Leonard, Timlin, Payne (Weston 68); Cassidy (Hurst 78), Pigott. Subs not used: Smith, Corr, Coulthirst, Deegan. CHELTENHAM TOWN: Carson; Berry, Brown, Taylor, Braham-Barrett (M Richards 67); Burns, Wynter (Hanks 47), Ferdinand, Gray (Kotwica 63); E Richards, Johnstone. Subs not used: Reynolds, Deaman, SterlingJames, Manset. REFEREE: Carl Berry. ATTENDANCE: 5,013 (49 away).
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Tickets selling quickly for Festival 2015 HORSE RACING
THE BEST MATE Enclosure is now sold out on Gold Cup Day, Friday, March 13. Situated on the far side of the racecourse, it is one of three enclosures at Cheltenham Racecourse. Tickets for Gold Cup Day can still be purchased for the other two enclosures: Tattersalls and Club. TURN TO PAGE 38 >
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