CP 14082026 digital

CheltenhamPost The

Friday 14th August 2026

FREE

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham’s newest wealth manager With an 80-year heritage you can trust

Scan here to learn more.

Capital at risk.

01242 502 808

SPORT HEAVY DEFEAT FOR CHELTENHAM AT HOME PLUS CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL LATEST

Reconditioned Straight (Subject to Availability)

From Only

New Straight FILMING CREW IN CHELTENHAM FOR CONAN-DOYLE CLASSIC SEE PAGE 9

NATIONAL AWARD FOR BISHOPS CLEEVE CARE HOME See page 8

MASSAGE PARLOUR EXPOSED AS BROTHEL

MP LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO SAVE OUR HIGH STREET See page 12

GLOUCESTER

CARPET OUTLET SEE PAGE 19

THREE people who ran a network of brothels across England, including one operating as a massage parlour in Cheltenham town centre, have been jailed.

Orchard Thai Therapy in Regent Street was among a number of premises police said were being used as brothels disguised as massage businesses. The operation was based in a top-floor flat on

Three people have been jailed after admitting running a nationwide prostitution network, with one of the businesses operating on Regent Street

Regent Street.

Khondakar Hasan, 40, of Morton Walk, Leicester, Liu Xu Hopkins, 55, and Benjamin Hopkins, 57, both of High Street, Staple Hill, South Gloucestershire, admitted

conspiracy to control prostitution for gain.

The trio were sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on 17th July.

Continued on page 3

From Only

Reconditioned Curved (Subject to Availability)

From Only

New Curved From Only Local Engineers - 24 Hour Support

FREEPHONE: 0808 108 0722

ALL MAJOR CREDIT & DEBIT CARDS ACCEPTED

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE

Trusted Local Roofing Contractors

l Roofing l Repairs l Fascias

l Gutters l Soffits l Conservatories

l Conversions l Flat roofing l Rubber roofing

New Solar Guards

fitted not screwed

From comprehensive roof repairs to quality upgrade installations, everything is covered by our expert team of roofing contractors.

Call 01242 800 659 info@apexcladdingandroofing.co.uk www.apexcladdingandroofing.co.uk

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

News Cheltenham Post AROUND THE COUNTY news from Gloucestershire Contact us Commercial Director Mark Cuzner mark@cheltenhampost.co.uk

Publishing Director Nicholas Clarke nick@cheltenhampost.co.uk

Editor editor@cheltenhampost.co.uk

Website enquiries digitaleditor@cheltenhampost.co.uk

To advertise call

07983 179225 GOT A STORY? News editor@cheltenhampost.co.uk

General enquiries

info@cheltenhampost.co.uk

Follow us on social media

Twitter: @CheltenhamPost www.facebook.com/ cheltenhampost www.cheltenhampost.co.uk The Cheltenham Post Newspaper is owned and published by All4One Media Limited.

The views, reviews and comments of contributors aren’t necessarily those of the publisher.

Company registration 09333677

Where to find us You can pick up your copy of the Cheltenham Post in many shops and leisure places throughout the town.

We also have stands at your local supermarkets listed below; Arle Court Transport Hub Asda Superstore, Hatherley Lane Co-Op, Leckhampton Road Co-Op, Bath Road, Leckhampton Co-Op, Salisbury Avenue Cheltenham General Hospital Cheltenham Spa Train Station East End Garage, Charlton Kings Morrisons, Caernarvon Road Up Hatherley Sainsburys, Gallagher Retail Park Sainsburys, Priors Road, Oakley Tesco Superstore, Collets Drive Tesco, Church Road Bishops Cleeve We are also at selected other Co-Op stores as well as many 1000s delivered door-to-door on a rotation basis every two weeks.

2

Sentence increases for reckless driver A PRISON sentence given to a woman who caused a collision which killed two people and seriously injured three others in 2022, has been increased under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

Liberty Mitchell, aged 21 and of Chipping Norton, pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, three counts of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and two counts of causing death by driving whilst uninsured.

At Gloucester Crown Court on Friday 13th February, she was initially sentenced to six years and eight months imprisonment and disqualified from driving for eight years and four months upon her release from prison.

Following sentencing, the Crown Prosecution Service made a request for the Attorney General's Office to review the case under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

The Attorney General then referred the case to the Court of Appeal.

The appeal case was heard at the Court of Appeal in London on Tuesday 28th July and Mitchell's prison sentence was increased to nine years and three months imprisonment after it was deemed that the original sentence given in February was unduly lenient.

The Court of Appeal also increased Mitchell's driving disqualification from eight years and four months to 11 years and two months.

Sergeant Williams from the Serious Collision Investigation Team said: "Liberty Mitchell's actions on Friday 2nd December

DANGEROUS DRIVER: Mitchell will spend longer behind bars.

PICTURE: Gloucestershire Police

2022 have had a long-lasting impact on not only the families of those involved in the collision, but also the emergency service colleagues and members of the public who had to deal with the aftermath.

“I am pleased that the concerns which were raised about Mitchell's original sentence length were listened to and that her prison sentence has been

increased.

“Nothing will bring back Octavian Codreanu and Moyra Whelan or reverse the life changing injuries that several others sustained during the collision but I hope their families feel that justice has now been served.”

Police had been called to the B4425 at Riversmeet North near Aldsworth shortly after 12.45pm

on Friday 2nd December 2022 with a report of a serious collision which involved multiple vehicles.

The collision, which took place between the Coln St Aldwyns and Eastington turnings, involved a Mini Cooper being driven by Mitchell, an Audi A3, a Polestar 2 and a Seat Leon taxi.

Emergency services attended and the driver of the taxi, Octavian Codreanu, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

His passenger, school teacher Moyra Whelan, was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol for treatment and died later that day from her injuries.

Several other people were taken to hospital for treatment, and many are now living with a daily reminder of the collision after sustaining serious and life changing injuries.

Mitchell was arrested at the scene and later charged in connection with the collision.

Police investigations found that Mitchell had regularly been speeding and driving whilst using her mobile phone, despite passing her driving test less than three weeks before the collision happened.

An analysis of Mitchell’s social media found that she had been filming Snapchat videos whilst behind the wheel.

These videos showed Mitchell’s lack of care for driving safely, with one showing her driving at 100 miles per hour on a county road and another showing her veering onto the opposite side of the road towards an oncoming car as friends shouted for her to stop.

Step back in time: Gloucester Goes Retro returns with a weekend of vintage fun GLOUCESTER City Council, in partnership with Gloucester BID, is gearing up for the return of Gloucester Goes Retro when it takes over the city centre on Saturday 29th August 2026.

More than 500 classic vehicles are expected to line Gloucester's historic Gate Streets and Docks for a celebration of motoring heritage, music, fashion and entertainment.

Part of Gloucester’s Summer of Sound, live music will be in Kings Square and hosted by Gloster Swing Dance founders

Gary and Sara Boon. The husband-and-wife team are twotime UK Lindy Hop Champions and will be bringing energy, expertise and plenty of vintage style to the heart of the city.

Visitors can also enjoy street performances from groups such as Kitsch n Sync, the acclaimed street theatre collective known for their unique blend of comedy and thought-provoking acts.

Popular competitions will once again form part of the day's entertainment, including the Best Dressed Awards and the Colin

Organ Photo Competition.

Gloucester city centre recorded an estimated footfall of 51,769 during the event in 2025, helping to deliver a significant economic boost for local businesses.

Retailers, cafés, restaurants, pubs and other hospitality venues reported increased footfall and turnover throughout the day, highlighting the event's value in supporting the local economy and encouraging visitors to spend time and money in the city.

Gloucester Goes Retro was

founded by the late Colin Organ, a long-serving Gloucester city councillor, former Mayor of Gloucester and passionate classic car enthusiast. Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said: “We're delighted to welcome Gloucester Goes Retro back to the city. From classic vehicles and live entertainment to vintage fashion and family activities, Gloucester Goes Retro creates a fantastic atmosphere across the city centre.”

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

News

Regent Street brothel exposed as part of nationwide network

JAILED: Left to right, Khondakar Hasan, Benjamin Hopkins and Liu Xu Hopkins.

Continued from front page Liu Xu Hopkins was jailed for two years, while Hasan and Benjamin Hopkins were each sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment.

All three had been remanded in custody since their arrests in October last year following an investigation by the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU).

Police said the investigation uncovered brothels operating under the guise of massage parlours in Wiltshire, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridgeshire and Reading.

Investigators said women working at the premises were instructed to dispose of tissues and other evidence of sexual activity in public waste bins in an attempt to conceal the true nature of the businesses should police visit.

Police said Hasan was

responsible for ensuring bills, rent and salaries were paid and that the premises appeared to be legitimate Chinese health and massage businesses despite operating as brothels.

Liu Xu Hopkins recruited women to work at the premises and managed the day-to-day operation of the businesses, including liaising with customers.

Benjamin Hopkins maintained the properties and helped move women between locations.

Police said the three had planned to expand the operation by opening additional premises.

Detective Chief Inspector Adam Smith, of the SWROCU, said the investigation began after community concerns were raised about businesses in Chippenham, leading officers to uncover what he described

CCTV: Image shows Liu Hopkins disposing of ‘sex litter’. as a network exploiting women for financial gain.

He said investigators would now seek to identify and recover assets obtained through criminal activity and apply for Serious Crime Prevention Orders to prevent the trio from operating similar businesses in future.

Andrew Eddy, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: "This was a deliberate and exploitative operation run for profit, in which women were treated as commodities.

"The defendants exercised control over the women's movements, work and living arrangements, while concealing their criminal activity behind the appearance of legitimate massage businesses."

The CPS said it would continue working with law enforcement partners to bring to justice those who exploit others for financial gain.

PICTURES: Gloucestershire Police

Man charged after alleged stabbing A CHELTENHAM man has been charged after a man was seriously injured in an alleged stabbing in the town.

William Keeling, 22, of Springbank, Cheltenham, has been charged with Section 18 wounding, possession of a bladed article and Section 39 common assault.

Police were called to a car park on Rodney Road shortly after 6am on Thursday, 16th July, following reports that a man had been stabbed.

Officers said a man had

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

approached a group of people, some of whom were known to him, as they stood on Regent Street.

It was reported that he chased one of the men towards the car park before stabbing him in the back.

The victim, a man in his 20s from Gloucester, suffered three wounds to his back and was taken to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, where he remained in a serious but stable condition.

Following a search of the area, a 22-year-old man from Cheltenham was arrested on suspicion of Section 18 wounding with intent.

Keeling has since been charged and remanded in custody.

Anyone with information about the incident who has not already spoken to police is asked to contact Gloucestershire Police online, quoting incident number 53260059693, or call 101.

3

Award winning care homes

Sandfields care home, Cheltenham

Love to Move First Tuesday of each month, 2pm - 4pm Join us for age and dementia friendly seated exercise sessions delivered as part of the nationally recognised programme from British Gymnastics.

To book please call 01242 801596 or email david.blake@careuk.com Trusted to care

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

News

More than 60 arrests made during summer anti-drink and drug driving campaign MORE than 60 people were arrested during the month of July as part of Gloucestershire Constabulary's annual summer anti-drink and drug driving campaign.

Of the 61 people arrested, 35 were on suspicion of drink driving, 19 on suspicion of drug driving, three on suspicion of being drunk in charge of a vehicle and four were arrested on suspicion of failing to provide a specimen.

The multi-partnership campaign was co-ordinated

by Gloucestershire Constabulary, Gloucestershire County Council, Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner as part of the Road Safety Partnership.

It ran from 1st to 31st July and aimed to educate drivers on the dangers and penalties they could face by getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol and/or

drugs.

The campaign, which had a particular focus on the FIFA World Cup, had an emphasis on ensuring people were enjoying matches while

being aware of the penalties they could face if found to be driving after drinking alcohol or consuming drugs.

As part of the campaign, officers from the Specialist Operations, Local Policing and Neighbourhood Policing teams, along with the Special Constabulary, took part in roadside police checks and did targeted patrols.

Superintendent Jessica Loxley-Clark, from the Constabulary's Specialist Operations Unit, said: "I would like to thank every officer and member of staff who played a part in making this a successful operation and allowing us to take drink and drug drivers off the roads.

"I would also like to thank the members of the public who reported suspected drink or drug drivers to us.

"It's still disappointing that this number of motorists risked their own life and the lives and safety of others by driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

"An operation like this isn't just for the summer months.

Our efforts to make the roads of Gloucestershire safe take place 24/7, 365 days a year."

Nick Evans, Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner and Chair of Gloucestershire's Road Safety Partnership said: "More than 60 people arrested sends a really strong message to motorists in Gloucestershire and is a good result from our hardworking police team.

"These officers have done a great job at protecting all of us who use the road network in our county.

"It's good that we caught these people but it is disappointing that so many people choose to get behind the wheel while under the influence. We will continue to take action to arrest those who flout the law."

If you have information about anyone who is driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs, call 101 or 999 if an offence is happening at the time.

Try to provide as much information as possible, including a description of the driver, the vehicle and direction of travel.

Alternatively you can report information anonymously to the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Everybody welcome!

Summer Fete At Bishops Cleeve Care Home

Join us for a free, fun-filled afternoon for all of the family:

Saturday 15th August | 11.30 - 3.30pm

• 2pm - Live Entertainment • • • • •

BBQ Ra e Craft Stalls Outside Games Tour our facilities

We look forward to welcoming you at Bishop’s Cleeve Care Home Ruby Avenue, Cheltenham, GL52 7ZN 01204 232 024 | crm.south@advinia.com advinia.co.uk/care-homes/bishops-cleeve-care-home www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

5

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

News

In the dock!

The following cases have all been heard recently at Cheltenham Magistrates Court: Gregory Hallam, 38, of Queens Road, Cheltenham, was jailed for a total of 40 weeks for resuming a crime spree just eight days after the court had given him a chance of freedom. Hallam appeared in court on December 22nd last year and received a suspended jail term. He was also served with a criminal behaviour order banning him from entering shops in the town. But on December 30th he flouted the order by stealing from the Co-op and Sainsbury’s. He then went on to commit four further thefts from M&S, Tesco and Cheltenham Service Station and more breaches of the order in January and February this year. Hallam pleaded guilty to six charges of theft and five of breaching his criminal behaviour order.

He also admitted a breach of bail by failing to attend an earlier court hearing. Giving their reason for the immediate jail term totalling 40 weeks the magistrates said “because the defendant has a flagrant disregard for court orders.”

Hanif Karim, 55, of Prestbury Road, Cheltenham, faces charges of dealing in cannabis, illegal cigarettes and disposable vapes. He was committed to Gloucester Crown Court for trial. He has pleaded not guilty to possession of a disposable vape on 17th June last year with intent to offer it for sale.

It has been illegal since June 1st 2025 for businesses to supply single-use vapes.

Karim has not yet entered pleas to the other charges he faces. It is alleged that on June 17th 2025, he possessed 80.4 grams of cannabis with intent to supply, that he supplied electronic cigarettes containing more than 2mls of nicotine and that he supplied a tobacco product which did not carry a health warning.

The final charge is that on 29th October 2025 he had 62.2 grams of cannabis with intent to supply. He was unconditionally bailed pending a hearing at Gloucester Crown Court on 28th August.

Sonny Johnson, 43, of Harrison Road, Shurdington, was due to be sentenced for offences of theft, assault, and breaching bail but did not attend court and a warrant was issued for his arrest. He had been convicted in his

6

absence of stealing £1,287 worth of clothing from Holland Cooper at Dowdeswell Park Estate on 18th October 2024. Johnson admitted shoplifting food worth £35 from the Co-op in Cheltenham on 13th December 2024. He has not yet entered pleas to charges of assaulting two men in Gloucester on 21st January this year and using threatening or abusive behaviour at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital on that day.

He has admitted failing to surrender to bail on 13th May last year and 23rd February this year. He has also admitted assaulting two police officers during the execution of their duty in Gloucester on 10th September 2025.

Jaimee Saunders, 21, of Minetts Ave, Bishop’s Cleeve, was remanded in custody on a charge of causing grievous bodily harm to a man with intent to do so on 25th July this year. The charge follows a stabbing in Bishop’s Cleeve. Saunders will appear at Gloucester Crown Court on 28th August.

Zephaniah Campbell, 34, of Okus Road, Charlton Kings, faces nine charges of shoplifting and eight of breaching a criminal behaviour order. He is also accused of possessing cocaine and breaching bail.

He has so far admitted eight of the 19 charges against him and is expected to enter pleas to the remaining counts when he next appears before the court on 30th September. The theft charges all relate to Tesco and Iceland in Gloucester. He has been granted bail on condition he does not enter any retail premises in Gloucestershire except for Lidl and the Co-op in Charlton Kings. The Magistrates have ordered a pre-sentence report on Campbell as well as an update from his defence lawyer on his current status and fitness to attend the next hearing.

Nicola Page, 39, of Merriville Road, Cheltenham, admitted four shoplifting offences committed between March and July last year, and was bailed to await sentence on 24th August. Three of the offences were thefts of perfume worth a total of £539 from John Lewis in High

Street, Cheltenham. She also stole £23.92 worth of washing products from B&M Home Store in Tewkesbury Road. The magistrates ordered a pre-sentence report on Page and made it a condition of her bail that she lives and sleeps each night at her home address.

Paul Buchanan, 65, of , Ruardean Hill, nr Coleford, whose careless driving in Cheltenham caused serious injury to a man, was banned from the roads for a year. He was also fined £500 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £200 surcharge. He pleaded guilty to driving a Honda Civic on Swindon Road, Cheltenham, without due care and attention on 3rd September last year, thereby causing serious injury to the victim.

Poppy Howse, 19, of Murray House, St Paul’s Street South, Cheltenham, admitted assaulting a man by beating him in Cheltenham on 5th December 2025. She was conditionally discharged for a year and ordered to pay £85 costs. The court said it could not award any compensation to the victim because “there are insufficient details provided by the prosecutor for the court to make a compensation order.”

Anthony Davis, 47, of Grove Street, Cheltenham, who has admitted two offences of stealing more than £1,200 worth of perfumes from Boots and John Lewis between November 2024 and August last year, was given a final chance to co-operate with the preparation of a presentence report by the probation service. The magistrates bailed him till 19th August and said if there is still no report available then they will proceed to sentence him without one.

Melissa Wright, 42, of Orchard Walk, Brockworth, pleaded not guilty to defrauding a woman of £3,710 by writing three cheques to that value and cashing them between 8th March and 5th April 2024.

She was bailed to await a four-hour trial on 2nd September.

Desmond Goldsmith, 39, of Queenshill Road, Knowle, Bristol, was ordered to pay

£1,473 in fines, costs and surcharges, after he was found guilty of assaulting a man by beating him in Cheltenham on 13th March last year. He had denied the charge. The court said it was not awarding any compensation to the victim because there was no medical evidence.

Bradley Timbrell, 26, of Meadowsweet Road, Shurdington, who is charged with driving without insurance and also with failing to provide a breath specimen to the police, was bailed till 19th September.

The alleged offences occurred on 19th April this year in Withybridge Lane, Cheltenham. The court said it was adjourning the case to give Timbrell time to provide a medical certificate.

He will be expected to enter pleas to the charges at the next hearing.

Steven Aubrey, 39, of Crabtree Place, Cheltenham, is charged with stealing a number of steaks from the Co-op in Winchcombe on 9th January this year. He has not yet entered a plea. A warrant was issued for his arrest.

Robert Davies-Reilly, 49, of Grosvenor Street, Cheltenham, faces charges of obstructing a police constable, driving while disqualified and without insurance, failing to display a rear registration plate on his LandRover Discovery, and breaching bail. He did not attend court and a warrant was issued for his arrest. The charges arise from incidents in the Pontypool and Newport areas of South Wales.

Graham Davis, 71, of Cromwell Road, Cheltenham, admitted assaulting a woman by beating her in Cheltenham on 9th November last year.

He was placed on a 2-year community order with 18 months of mental health treatment and fined £230. He was also ordered to attend up to 30 days of rehab activities and the court imposed a five year restraining order which forbids him from contacting the woman or going to a specified street in Cheltenham. He was ordered to pay £85 costs and a £92 surcharge.

Konrad Sicinski, 24, of Robertson Road, Shurdington, admitted driving a Honda Civic on Finlay Road, Gloucester, while disqualified and without insurance on 7th January 2026. He was placed on a one-year community order with a requirement to do 120 hours of unpaid work.

He was also banned from driving for six months, fined £120 and ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 surcharge.

Sebastian Horton, 45, of Tewkesbury Road, Coombe Hill, was committed to Gloucester Crown Court to be sentenced after he admitted assaulting a woman causing her actual bodily harm in Worcestershire on 9th December 2018. A presentence report was ordered and he was granted unconditional bail until his Crown Court appearance on 24th August.

John O’Reilly, 58, of Sun Street, Cheltenham, pleaded not guilty to a charge of intentionally strangling a woman on 23rd June this year. He was bailed until 17th August on conditions that: he does not contact the woman, he lives and sleeps each night at his home address and he does not go to a specified area of Cheltenham. The magistrates ordered the prosecution to disclose any unused material and bodyworn camera footage to the defence by not less than two weeks before trial. The prosecution was warned such evidence would likely be excluded if not provided in time.

Leon Gillespie, 40, of Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, denied driving a Ford vehicle on Badgeworth Road while disqualified on 28th October 28th last year.

He admitted having no third party insurance for the vehicle at the time of the alleged offence. He was unconditionally bailed to await a one-hour trial on 2nd October this year.

Natalie Jones, 43, of Regents Court, St Stephens Road, Cheltenham, denied assaulting a woman causing her actual bodily harm in Cheltenham on 8th July 2022 but was found guilty. She was sentenced to a one-year community order with a requirement to do 40 hours of

unpaid work and to take part in up to 10 rehabilitation activity days. She was ordered to pay £325 costs and a £114 surcharge.

Andrew Stevens, 50, of Marsland Road, Cheltenham, denied assaulting a woman by beating her at Coleford on 16th September last year. He was bailed to await a trial estimated to last 70 minutes on 1st December this year.

While on bail he must not contact the alleged victim.

Sampath Sasikumar, 26, of Berkeley Place, Cheltenham, admitted driving a Hyundai car on Oldbury Road, Tewkesbury, without insurance or a valid licence on 23rd August last year. He was fined £120 and ordered to pay £130 costs and a £48 surcharge. The court endorsed his licence with eight penalty points.

Mikolaj Sobczak, 55, of no fixed address, who is charged with assaulting a police constable in Cheltenham on 26th February this year, did not attend court and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Benjamin Cadman, 49, of Barbridge Road, Cheltenham, is charged with assaulting a police constable while the officer was executing his duty on 27th December 2025 in Cheltenham. The case was adjourned till 29th September for the prosecution to consider whether an out-ofcourt disposal was possible.

Cadman was unconditionally bailed.

Adam Courts, 36, of Devon Place, Cheltenham, is charged with driving with excess Benzoylecgonine (a cocaine metabolite) in his blood on Tewkesbury Road, Coombe Hill, on 7th January this year. He was unconditionally bailed pending a plea hearing on 17th September.

Romain Morrison, 36, of Providence Park, Cheltenham, pleaded not guilty to driving a VW Golf on Swindon Road, Cheltenham, on 1st January this year while over the limit for Delta-9Tetrahydrocannabinol (cannabis). He was unconditionally bailed pending a two-hour trial on September 17th.

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Hatherley Park lake restoration reaches key milestone Work to remove accumulated silt from Hatherley Park lake has been completed as part of a restoration project aimed at improving water quality and supporting wildlife in one of Cheltenham’s most popular green spaces THE desilting phase of the Hatherley Park lake restoration project has been completed, with accumulated silt removed as part of efforts to improve water quality and support the site’s wildlife.

The work forms part of a wider project to restore and enhance the lake, which is a popular feature of Hatherley Park.

The project has been funded through £50,000 from Cheltenham Borough Council capital funds, alongside a £5,000 contribution from the Friends of Hatherley Park.

Councillor Steve Harvey, cabinet member for waste, recycling and green open spaces, said: “Hatherley Park lake is a popular feature of the park and an important habitat for local wildlife.

These improvements will help the lake thrive for years to come, supporting biodiversity while ensuring it remains an attractive place for residents and visitors to enjoy.

“I’d like to thank the Friends of Hatherley Park, as well as local residents, volunteers, contractors, ecologists and everyone involved in helping to deliver this project.”

Richard de Carteret, chair of Friends of Hatherley Park, said: “We’re delighted to support this project and to see these improvements completed. The lake plays an important role in supporting wildlife and is a focal point of Hatherley Park.

“We look forward to seeing the habitat develop over the coming years for the benefit of both nature and the local community.”

The work was carried out under the guidance of an

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

independent ecologist, with measures in place throughout the project to help protect wildlife and minimise disruption to habitats.

While the desilting and engineering work has now finished, the restoration of the lake is continuing. Over the autumn and winter months, the lake will recover naturally as water levels stabilise, habitats develop and wildlife gradually returns.

As the lake is not connected to a watercourse, it relies on rainfall and groundwater to refill.

Additional planting around the lake edges will continue to establish over the coming seasons, creating habitats for birds, amphibians, insects and other freshwater wildlife while enhancing the area for visitors.

The area used to store silt during the works will also be

restored to grassland from late summer into autumn.

The project forms part of the council’s wider commitment to protecting and enhancing biodiversity across Cheltenham’s parks and green spaces. In the years ahead, visitors can expect improved aquatic habitats, better water quality and a healthier ecosystem supporting a greater diversity of wildlife.

News Max Wilkinson MP

Liberal Democrats

THE recent announcement that our local council is to be abolished will involve major change in under two years.

The change brings significant risks. That's why I've launched my "Don't Let Cheltenham Lose Its Voice" campaign.

The new Gloucestershire Council will take responsibility for everything from social care and SEND provision to road maintenance, planning, transport, recycling and environmental protection. It will also inherit cultural and heritage assets, local parks and gardens in Cheltenham.

When the new authority takes control in 2028, it must recognise the enormous contribution Cheltenham makes to Gloucestershire. It will inherit difficult financial pressures, and there will be calls to cut services and sell assets to balance the books.

But cutting funding to Cheltenham’s assets, selling them off, or mothballing them, would be a mistake.

Gloucestershire benefits enormously from the town’s heritage attractions, leisure facilities and thriving town centre.

The town centre itself must be a priority. Cheltenham is a fantastic place, but empty shops and neglected buildings can quickly undermine confidence. So can poor design and maintenance (hence my tarmac cowpats campaign).

The new authority must take pride in our high street, work to fill empty spaces, including Cavendish House, and ensure the town centre is properly maintained.

Economic growth matters too. The Golden Valley development has the potential to create thousands of skilled jobs and further strengthen Cheltenham's reputation as a centre for innovation.

The project began in Cheltenham and has attracted support from local government, central government and the private sector. That project must be delivered, along with the

Junction 10 upgrade.

The new council must also protect what makes Cheltenham special. Our parks and gardens are central to the town's identity and deserve continued investment.

The same applies to valued community assets such as the Town Hall, Pittville Pump Room, Leisure at Cheltenham and The Wilson.

Some of these could be run by a new Cheltenham Town Council, funded by a revenue-generating asset like a town centre car park.

Potholes remain one of the big problems and the new authority will inherit a substantial challenge. Tight settlements from Westminster mean the current highways department faces a £15 million annual maintenance shortfall.

I've already brought the senior County Council figures to Cheltenham to hear concerns directly from residents. They’re acting on what they heard, but much more needs to be done.

The new council should also deliver a simple and effective waste and recycling service. Cheltenham should regain a household waste and recycling centre like the one previously located at Swindon Road.

Finally, the new authority must improve bus services, which opens up an opportunity to improve the look and feel of our town centre by regenerating Royal Well.

I did not support the singleunitary option. A smaller council centred on Cheltenham was my favoured option.

But we will have to make the best of an imperfect scenario. That means our town will need to fight its corner, whichever party is in charge when Gloucestershire Council takes over in 2028.

Cheltenham's unique character must not be taken for granted.

If you agree, please back my campaign at maxwilkinson.org/localdemo cracy

7

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

News

Labour Party

Mike Farmer

Throwing away the key?

This isn’t the first time that there has been a crisis over our prison population, and unless we’re prepared to make some radical changes it won’t be the last. How we treat prisoners, and how much resources we are prepared to devote to our prison estate, and to the men and women who staff them, is an important test of how civilised we are as a country. I am reminded of a statement attributed to Fyodor Dostoevsky ‘A society should be judged not by how it treats its outstanding citizens but by how it treats its criminals’.

Andy Burnham has gone on record as wanting to find a cross-party consensus to how we provide and pay for social care in this country. I would like to think that the same approach could be found for the prisons crisis.

Like social care, the problems with our prisons have built up over decades, under governments of all political colours. And we, the general public, do not help. We call for longer and tougher prison sentences, but baulk at paying more taxes for more prison places. Last week I listened to a radio interview with Alex Chalk, our former Conservative MP and Lord Chancellor.

He reminded us that it takes eight years and a minimum of £600m to build a new prison, plus getting planning permission and overcoming the opposition of local people where it would be built. How many of you would want a new prison near your home?

Someone with Alex

Chalk’s experience should be listened to, regardless of which political party he is from.

If we do nothing, our prisons will be full by November. That is the current crisis which the early release scheme is designed to address. We can all argue about whether this or that group of prisoners should be excluded from the scheme.

There is a petition calling for the killers of a policeman to be excluded, and doubtless there will be other campaigns as well.

There will probably be some mistakes – where decisions have to be taken quickly this is almost inevitable.

Chalk also commented on the need for a reconsideration of our sentencing policy, which he said should focus on those who are a significant danger to society. He implied, although he did not spell this out, that we send too many people to prison. So the optimist in me hopes that the present prison crisis will spur a proper national debate on which crimes really warrant long prison sentences, and which would be better addressed by alternative punishments.

But the pessimist in me isn’t holding his breath!

Bishop’s Cleeve care worker wins national award for bringing joy to residents Terri Rowles, wellbeing co-ordinator at Bishop’s Cleeve Care Home, has been recognised for her work creating meaningful experiences for residents, including those living with dementia A DEVOTED care professional at Bishop’s Cleeve Care Home has received national recognition for her work helping to bring happiness to residents’ lives, particularly those living with dementia.

Terri Rowles, wellbeing coordinator at the home on Ruby Avenue, was nominated for the award after impressing colleagues with her enthusiasm, creative ideas and the strong connections she builds with residents and their families.

Terri was praised for creating activities and events tailored to residents living with dementia, helping them enjoy meaningful and engaging experiences.

Advinia Healthcare’s Head of Dementia, Sarah Merriman, highlighted Terri’s approach to care after seeing first-hand how she supports residents to remain active, connected and involved.

Sarah said: “Terri's passion for enriching the lives of our residents is evident in everything she does. She has an incredible ability to understand each person as an individual and to create experiences that promote purpose, independence and joy.

“She is an outstanding ambassador for person-centred dementia care and thoroughly deserves this recognition as

Reform UK

Matt Podmore, Reform UK Cheltenham Chair

OVER the last week or two we have seen visits to northern France by UK politicians Lee Anderson from Reform UK and Chris Philp from the Conservative Party.

Unfortunately, that was a trip

8

too far for our fearless PM, who went to Dover instead, where he looked at a boat before scarpering off on holiday for two weeks. I think we can sense the priorities here from the parties involved.

What interested me in both Chris and Lee’s visits was the confirmation of what we sort of knew but weren’t sure about: namely, the apparent failure of the French authorities to prevent the illegal Channel crossings taking place along their coast.

We saw both police officers

and charity workers either apparently ignoring the boats or helping those attempting to leave for England.

When Lee Anderson spoke to “asylum” seekers in the camps by the shore, they were clear that money was the driving force behind their desire to get to England. When asked why they don’t stay in France, they said the French wouldn’t give them the paperwork. Obviously, the French are taking us for fools, and who can blame them? We have given them hundreds of

HONOURED: Terri holding her award with the Bishop’s Cleeve team.

one of our Heroes of Happiness.”

Sarah and Advinia Healthcare’s Head of Hospitality, Mark Dale, surprised Terri with the honour during an emotional presentation where she was moved to tears.

Terri said: “Thank you, everyone, for such kind words.

It’s been hard work, but so rewarding when you see the difference we are all making at Bishop’s Cleeve as a team.

“Thank you, Advinia, for the

amazing recognition and the generous gift. I was totally overwhelmed, but in a good way.”

Mark created the ‘Heroes of Happiness’ programme in 2025 to celebrate professional excellence and recognise outstanding work across the organisation.

The programme aims to promote a culture of kindness and highlight colleagues who make a difference through their work.

Mark said: “Heroes of

Happiness is about recognising the colleagues who make an extraordinary difference through the everyday things they do. Terri embodies everything this award stands for.

“Her positivity, creativity and genuine care for our residents create an environment where people feel valued, connected and truly at home. It was a privilege to present this award and celebrate someone who makes such a meaningful impact every single day.”

millions of pounds to help stop the boats, yet boats continue to leave the French coast and transport people to England.

Meanwhile, French towns in the area suffer from crime, squalor and intimidation associated with peoplesmuggling gangs and the migrant camps. The French establishment doesn’t give a fig for its people in the area, the safety of those making the dangerous Channel crossing or the security of its borders.

We have seen in North Africa a mass movement into the Spanish enclaves and the reactions of other EU states, who are even willing to introduce border controls affecting travel from Spain if they believe it doesn’t do

enough to address the problem. It appears there is a growing realisation within the EU that the Schengen zone, and the right to freedom of movement which is a privilege for EU citizens, can also pose a serious challenge to the security and cohesion of the EU when its external borders are not properly protected.

Reform UK has been in talks with politicians in France who have a more reasonable approach to this issue, and I hope that, with developing political will within the EU to preserve its freedom of movement principle, we will see action on this persistent and urgent issue.

Sweden, Denmark, Greece and Italy are all taking a

tougher line on immigration, with laws being passed that would have been unthinkable just five years ago. This reflects the pressure being placed on the societies of these countries by the arrival of large numbers of people from very different cultural backgrounds. It’s not a “farright” policy to control your borders, as those modern democratic countries are proving.

I would prefer a political settlement which meant we didn’t need to use the Royal Navy to escort the boats back.

We shall see what happens if we get new governments in the UK and France with a more pragmatic approach to the issue.

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham goes Victorian for Young Sherlock filming The town’s famous Promenade has been transformed into 19th-century London this week as cast and crew arrive to film the second series of Prime Video’s hit drama CHELTENHAM has once again found itself in front of the cameras, with the town's famous Promenade this week doubling as a slice of Victorian London for the second series of Amazon Prime Video's hit drama ‘Young Sherlock’.

Council planning records show that production company Motive Pictures (YS2) Ltd, which operates out of Shepperton Studios, sought permission for temporary alterations at 77 Promenade, allowing the Georgian townhouse to stand in as the Eaton Square residence of one of the drama's principal characters.

The plans called for a handful of reversible changes to the building's exterior entrance and internal hallway to achieve the required period look, including a temporary repaint of an interior wall. Everything will be reinstated once filming wraps and the crew moves on.

Preparation work at the site was due to begin between 27nd July and 2nd August, with cameras rolling on 3rd and 4th August.

Our reporter was on the scene this week and photographed cast and crew in full Victorian dress outside a shopfront that had been carefully redressed for

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

SPOTTED: Cast members in Victorian costume on the set of ‘Young Sherlock’ series two, photographed on Cheltenham's Promenade this week.

PICTURES: Bryan Mathieson. the period, complete with crates, bottles and trailing greenery in the window.

Among those pictured were a man wearing a bowler hat and dark pinstriped overcoat, and a woman in a green velvettrimmed dress and matching hat, walking arm in arm past the set. Crew members and filming equipment, including cameras,

were visible nearby.

This is not the first time the town's elegant Regency architecture has caught the eye of location scouts. Cheltenham's period streets and squares have featured in earlier productions, including the 1968 film ‘If...’ and Cold War drama ‘The Whistle Blower’. The town's ready-made historical character continues to make it a popular choice for filmmakers seeking convincing period settings without extensive set-building.

‘Young Sherlock’, created by Matthew Parkhill and developed alongside Peter Harness and Guy Ritchie, reimagines a young Sherlock Holmes navigating his first case as a 19-year-old at Oxford University, long before he becomes the master detective of Baker Street fame.

Hero Fiennes Tiffin takes the title role, with Dónal Finn as a young James Moriarty and Joseph Fiennes and Natascha McElhone playing Sherlock's parents.

The show premiered on Prime Video on 4th March 2026 to

strong reviews and quickly climbed to the top of the platform's global rankings, prompting a swift renewal for a second series. Season two has since added some notable names to its cast, including Zine Tseng, Colin Firth and Max Irons, the latter joining as Sherlock's brother, Mycroft Holmes.

Much of the first series was filmed across South Wales, Bristol and Somerset, taking in locations such as Merthyr Mawr estate, Shepton Mallet Prison and Bristol's Georgian House Museum, all pressed into service as various nineteenthcentury settings.

Cheltenham's turn in front of the cameras marks the production's move further into the South West and Cotswolds for its second outing.

Local residents can expect a limited period of disruption around the Promenade while filming takes place, though the production team has stressed that all works are temporary and the historic building will be fully restored once the crew moves on.

‘Young Sherlock’ series two does not yet have a confirmed release date.

News Conservative Party Rob Garnham - Cheltenham Chairman BENJAMIN Franklin said: “The only certain things in life are death and taxes”. I think I can add a third that every family will, at some point, have to negotiate the challenges of Social Care, either for themselves or for a family member. Speaking from experience, in respect of my parents, I know what a difficult challenge that can be.

Care at home or in a care home? Do you pay for residential care or nursing care? Or both? What are the financial limits on people’s savings before the State helps? Do people have to sell their homes or not? For me, living in England but with my father in Wales, it’s doubly complicated due to different systems.

Why in Wales is a person allowed to keep £50k of assets but in England it’s only £23k?

I welcome Andy Burnham’s focus on Social Care and for Dame Louise Casey to report next summer and not wait till 2028. Successive governments of all colours have failed to tackle this thorny issue and it’s a mess. The staff I have come across in the Care Sector are without exception dedicated and caring. They need a pay system that rewards them for what they do. The condition of care homes varies but what is common throughout is that social care in this country needs fixing. Is a National Care Service running alongside the NHS the answer? Will Andy raise taxes to pay for it?

The Conservatives have two core principles on this subject. Funding must come from reducing current government spending and not by increasing tax or borrowing, and any new system must be fair to those who have made provision and saved up over the course of their lives.

Lots to think about and still a year to wait for the answers.

The early release of some prisoners is causing an awful lot of angst and heartache for victims. We know the Government are continually amending who can be released early and now say that prisoners convicted of rape, serious child sex offences and grooming will be excluded from the programme. May I suggest that also to be excluded should be any prisoner associated with the death of a Police Officer, or for that fact, the death of any emergency worker? Perhaps that would answer the question of how to deal with those convicted of the manslaughter of PC Andrew Harper?

9

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

News Council Corner CHELTENHAM is a vibrant, welcoming and ambitious town. It is a place where people want to live, work, study and visit, and where strong communities play a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of residents. Maintaining and enhancing community safety is therefore fundamental to the success of our town and to the quality of life of everyone who calls Cheltenham home.

Last week, Cheltenham’s councillors adopted the Gloucestershire anti-hate statement. At its heart, it is a simple promise: that everyone who lives, works, studies or visits here should feel welcome, respected and safe.

It states clearly that hate crime, discrimination and hostility have no place in Gloucestershire. It also recognises the right to peaceful protest, while drawing a firm line against behaviour or language that creates fear, division or intimidation.

Of course, it is sad that such a statement is needed at all. But in the world we live in, it matters that councils, communities and public services say plainly what we stand for: kindness, fairness and respect.

At the same meeting, councillors also noted Cheltenham’s Community Safety Partnership Strategy for 2026–28. I know “strategy” is not always the most exciting word, but this one is about something that matters to every family, every business and every neighbourhood: helping people feel safe.

The strategy brings together the council, local police, health services, probation, fire and rescue, voluntary groups, local businesses and others. None of us can tackle these issues alone, but together we can make a real difference.

Some of our priorities are: 1) Serious Organised Crime & Exploitation. Creating an organised response which focuses on threats such as drug supply, exploitation, knife crime, fraud, cybercrime, and community infiltration (sometimes known as cuckooing).

2) Anti-social Behaviour.

Rowena Hay Leader of Cheltenham Borough Council Police-led with a holistic approach to tackling anti-social behaviour, reducing reoffending and improving community safety in Cheltenham. Within this priority there are area-based task groups including Scott & Edward Wilson House and the Town Centre that are tackling specific localised challenges.

3) Violence Against Women and Girls. A collective of organisations working in solidarity to support, raise awareness, influence change and challenge processes to tackle crimes that disproportionately affect women and girls.

These are difficult subjects to tackle, but they affect real people’s lives, and we have a responsibility to face them.

The challenges are not always straightforward. We need to prevent problems before they happen, step in early when people need help, support victims properly, and take firm action where behaviour harms others.

Cheltenham is already doing important work through initiatives such as No Child Left Behind, the Holiday Food and Activities programme, and the Youth Café launched this spring which gives young people a safe and positive place to spend time after school.

A safer Cheltenham is not just built through policies and meetings. It is built through everyday acts of care, by looking out for one another, challenging hatred when we see it, and making sure our town remains a place where everyone belongs.

Nearly 100 years of caring for Cheltenham pets earns top veterinary honour A REFERRAL veterinary practice that has been caring for the pets of Cheltenham for almost 100 years is celebrating achieving the highest level of accreditation available from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

Dragon Vets in Prestbury Park has recently been awarded RCVS Hospital status, making it the only vet practice in Cheltenham to hold the accolade. It follows a recent extension at its

Prestbury branch, which saw the hospital expand by 900 sq ft and double its consulting capacity.

To achieve Hospital status, practices must demonstrate excellence in clinical care and patient safety, maintain advanced facilities and equipment, and provide 24hour on-site care for animals requiring hospitalisation.

The award recognises the practice's advanced diagnostic and surgical facilities, its ability to manage complex

medical and surgical cases, and its commitment to continuous professional development for every member of the team. It also reflects the team’s focus on staff wellbeing and environmental sustainability.

Lisa Stanton, Practice Manager at Dragon Vets, which has five branches across the Cheltenham area, said: “Achieving RCVS Hospital status is an incredibly proud moment for everyone at Dragon Vets.

“For almost 100 years, local

pet owners have trusted us to care for their animals, and this accreditation is recognition of the dedication, expertise and compassion shown by our team every single day. To be recognised at this level is a fantastic achievement for our staff and provides reassurance to pet owners that their animals are receiving the highest standards of veterinary care."

For more information about Dragon Vets, visit www.dragonvet.co.uk.

Cheltenham host brings Empty Chairs loneliness initiative to local pubs EMPTY Chairs is a community-led campaign aimed at tackling loneliness by bringing people together in informal, welcoming settings.

The concept involves hosts booking a table at a pub or similar venue and extending an open invitation for anyone to attend, with no obligation to talk, buy a drink or stay for any set length of time.

The initiative was founded

by Dean Perryman, who lives

10

in London, following the tragic loss of his best friend to suicide. He later developed the idea after recognising the importance of community, connection and conversation in supporting people who may be feeling lonely, anxious or overwhelmed.

Organisers say Empty Chairs is not a form of therapy, but rather an opportunity for people to meet others who may be in similar situations and to

spend time in a relaxed, pressure-free environment.

Cheltenham host Tom Vella is bringing the initiative to the town. His role is to organise the booking and facilitate the evening by welcoming attendees, ensuring people feel comfortable and helping everyone feel included.

He added that after events, attendees are offered the option to join a WhatsApp group to stay connected and

take part in future informal meet-ups such as games evenings and coffee mornings.

The scheme is free to attend. The host wears something orange so the designated table can be easily identified on arrival.

Mr Vella said: “Choosing to come along to an event like this can feel nerveracking, but I would encourage people to just give it a go. You will be met with

smiles and hellos, and any built-up nerves quickly disappear.”

He said he became involved because he enjoys meeting new people and hearing their stories, adding that the initiative also helps expand his own social circle in Cheltenham.

Empty Chairs can be found on Instagram at @emptychairsuk and more information is available at www.emptychairs.org.uk

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

VOTED NO.1 MOBILITY RETAILER IN THE UK GOGO GB ELITE BOOT SCOOTER

BEXTON RISER RECLINER

SALE PRICE

SALE PRICE

NOW FROM *

£1599

£299* ASTROLITE POWERCHAIR

WALKERS FEATUR ZERO ING TECHNOTURN LOGY

SINGLE MOTOR

SAVE £50

AVAILABLE IN 2 COLOURS

SALE PRICE

*

£1299

£549*

SAVE £100

SAVE £50

APOLLO LIFE BOOT SCOOTER

LEOPARD ROLLATOR EXCLUS IVE TO ABLEW ORLD

AVAILABLE IN 2 COLOURS GREY

LIFETIM WARRA E ON BAT NTY TERY

SALE PRICE

LOW SEAT HEIGHT

FROM

NOW FROM

N EW

SAVE £50

£69

*

£50 £150 £300 *

SAVE

ON BOOT SCOOTERS

*

SAVE

LIGHT WEIGH T

ON PAVEMENT SCOOTERS

SALE PRICE

£1749

£299

*

RED

*

*

RISER RECLINER CHAIRS

BLUE RED

SALE PRICE

£44

.99

WHEELCHAIRS

JOLLY BOOT SCOOTER

INCLUD ATTEND ES A CONTR NT OLLE R

OFFERS APPLICABLE 1ST JUNE – 31ST AUGUST

*

£199

SAVE £20

SAVE UP TO

*

ON ROAD SCOOTERS

UNMISSABLE STAIRLIFT OFFERS STRAIGHT STAIRLIFTS OFTEN FITTED NEXT DAY

NEW STRAIGHT £1695* NEW CURVED

FREE 7 DAY / 24HR MANNED HELPLINE

RECONDITIONED FROM ONLY * RECONDITIONED FROM ONLY * £795 CURVED £2295 STRAIGHT

FRIENDLY LOCAL

ENGINEERS

FROM ONLY

SAVE

FROM ONLY

*

£3345

SELECTED VOUCHER ON ALL PLUS £250 ABLEWORLD £250! ONSTAIRLIFTS NEW STAIRLIFT PURCHASES

WE PROVIDE A FREE, NO-OBLIGATION HOME SURVEY ee g Fr rkin Pa

CHELTENHAM ABLEWORLD

www.ableworld.co.uk Voted UK’s no.1 Mobility Retailer 2019, by Access & Mobility Professionals

107B Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham, GL51 9DW

cheltenham@ableworld.co.uk

Next door to Sue Ryder Charity Shop OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Further details on all our stores can be found on: www.ableworld.co.uk

NHS Vouchers Welcome Where Applicable *VAT Exempt - Ask in Store for Details MRP- Manufacturers Recommended Price Previous Price - Sold for 28 days in last 6 months at our Nantwich Store Insurance/Warranty is arranged by Ableworld UK Ltd and provided through Mark Bates Ltd t/a Premier Care, Premier House, Londonthorpe Road, Grantham, Lincs, NG319SN who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FRN308390.

Calls made to this number may be recorded for monitoring and quality purposes

NQP290726017

Tel: (01242) 470 000

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

News Heat rises, so does demand WE’VE seen temperatures rise this summer, hitting record highs. As summer develops and schools break up, more people head outdoors to enjoy the hot weather. But when the mercury rises, inevitably so do the number of calls to police.

Sunny days and heat waves are welcome for many of us, and I certainly am a bit of a sunworshipper, but the summer months can also bring additional challenges for emergency services. We’ve already seen this play out in recent heatwaves. Southwest Ambulance Service Trust (which covers our county) reported experiencing its busiest day on record recently, receiving more than 5,200 calls to its ‘999’ control rooms, and managing more than 4,300 incidents in a single day.

The Trust said demand was driven by extreme hot weather during a Red HeatHealth Alert. It reported a

By Chris Nelson Police & Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire 34% increase in demand on what would normally be expected at that time of year.

It’s not much different here in policing. In June 2026, Gloucestershire experienced a Red Extreme Heat Warning on Wednesday 24th June and Thursday 25th June. On those two days alone Gloucestershire’s Force Control Room received 744 calls to ‘999’ and 971 calls to 101. That’s 1,715 people in Gloucestershire calling the police in just two days.

In July the constabulary received more than 11,000 emergency ‘999’ calls, which is a 16% increase on July last year. In fact, together with 101 calls they received more than 25,000 calls that month, and that averages over 800 calls a day. Far more than the 638 calls a day averaged over the past three years.

In July 2026, UKHSA issued Amber Heat Health Alerts for parts of England, including the Southwest on 12th–15th July. In that time frame there was 1,436 calls to ‘999’ and 2,120 calls to 101. That’s another 3,556 people calling the police in the heatwave.

While we can’t say it’s purely the heat, our demand in summer always increases.

Let’s not forget the impact of the Football World Cup too. Large events like this, busy town centres and increased travel can all place additional pressure on policing resources.

Behind the scenes, control room staff work around the clock to answer calls, assess risk and ensure officers are deployed where they are needed most. Every call is important, and teams work incredibly hard to respond to emergencies as quickly as possible, often dealing with

multiple critical incidents at the same time. Despite increasing workloads, the vast majority of ‘999’ calls are still answered in less than 10 seconds, and 101 calls in less than two minutes.

If a crime is happening now, someone is in immediate danger, or there

is a threat to life, always call ‘999’.

For non-emergency matters, such as reporting a historical crime, please use 101 or report online wherever possible. Many incidents and concerns can be reported quickly and easily through the Constabulary’s website,

helping to keep phone lines free for those who need urgent assistance.

You’ll likely see similar messages on this topic being shared by the Constabulary.

It really is essential that when you need help, you know which communication channel best meets your need.

MP launches plan to save our High Street Occupational Therapy

services brought into Gloucestershire Council

CHELTENHAM MP Max Wilkinson is calling on the Government to adopt the Liberal Democrats' plan to back local businesses before more shops, pubs and restaurants are forced to close.

The proposals include: l An emergency 5% VAT cut for hospitality, accommodation and visitor attractions. l Replacing the broken Business Rates system with one that supports high streets. l Scrapping the Government's National Insurance hike on employers.

Max warned that the decline of Cheltenham's high street is already affecting local employment.

There are now 2,170 people looking for work in Cheltenham, a 10% increase from last year, including 395 young people, an increase of 11%.

Max also highlighted the growing impact of retail crime. Gloucestershire recorded 4,598 shoplifting offences over the past year, with retailers increasingly facing organised theft and antisocial behaviour. The Liberal Democrats are calling for CCTV to be installed in every convenience store and for

12

stronger action against illicit vape shops.

Liberal Democrat MP for Cheltenham, Max Wilkinson, said: “In Cheltenham we’ve seen an unacceptable rise in shoplifting offences, job losses, and business closures following decades of neglect and mismanagement by consecutive Labour and

Conservatives governments.

“Our high streets are dying but it’s not too late to save them. The Government must stop dragging its feet and implement the Liberal Democrats’ plan to bring the hustle and bustle back to our town centres, restore the high streets as the heart of our communities and make them a safe place for everyone to enjoy.”

Comment The Cheltenham Post will be working with Max Wilkinson in our ‘Save Our High Street’ campaign. High Streets across the UK are all suffering from the same issues. High Business Rates, and customers shopping online. We will be working on this in the coming weeks so keep an eye out for future editions.

PEOPLE across Gloucestershire who receive support from adult social care Occupational Therapy services will benefit from more joinedup care following the transfer of the service to Gloucestershire County Council.

From 3rd August, responsibility for delivering council-funded adult social care Occupational Therapy services moved from Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust (GHC) to the county council.

The move follows the transfer of the Mental Health Social Work service to the council in June and forms part of a wider programme to strengthen adult social care.

Bringing Occupational Therapy into the council means teams will be able to work more closely, share information through the same systems and reduce duplication, helping residents access the right support at the right time.

Occupational therapists play an important role in

helping people remain independent for longer, supporting them to live safely at home, stay connected with their communities and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions or long-term care.

Councillor Dr Kate Usmar, cabinet member for Adults' Support and Independence, said the move was another important step in strengthening adult social care.

She said: “By bringing services closer together, we can improve how teams work together, reduce duplication and make it easier for people to get the support they need, when they need it.”

Residents already receiving support, or waiting for an assessment, do not need to take any action and services will continue as normal.

The transfer affects adult social care Occupational Therapy only and does not include health-related Occupational Therapy services provided by the NHS.

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

News

Cheltenham's biggest literary line-up yet revealed More than 500 events and a galaxy of writers, broadcasters, actors, politicians and sporting stars have been announced for this year's Literature Festival - with Cheltenham set to become a global stage for stories and ideas AUTHORS: Richard Osmond (Thursday Murder Club), and Cressida Cowell (How To Train Your Dragon).

MORE than 500 events featuring some of the biggest names in literature, politics, entertainment, sport and the arts have been announced for this year's Cheltenham Literature Festival.

The Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival returns from 9th to 18th October, with the full programme unveiled this week as organisers prepare for another ten days of events across the town.

Among the headline names appearing at the festival are Ian Rankin, Richard Osman, Mary Berry, Mary Beard, David Olusoga, Elif Shafak, Maggie O'Farrell, Matt Haig, Michael Morpurgo, Ian Hislop, Caitlin Moran, Helen Fielding, Katherine Ryan, Joe Marler and Ian Botham.

They will be joined by an extensive line-up of writers, broadcasters, actors, comedians, historians, journalists and sporting figures, with the programme covering everything from fiction and crime to politics, science, history, food, travel and psychology.

The festival, which dates back to 1949, is taking place during the National Year of Reading and organisers say this year's programme will explore the many different ways people engage with stories and ideas.

Around 30 per cent of the overall programme will be free, while events will take place not only within the Festival Village but at venues and locations around Cheltenham.

The programme includes appearances from internationally acclaimed authors including Yann Martel, Sebastian Faulks, Maggie O'Farrell and Elif

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Shafak, while crime fans can see Richard Osman and Ian Rankin alongside a host of leading crime writers.

There is also a strong focus on current affairs.

Ian Hislop will mark 40 years as editor of Private Eye in conversation with Times Radio's Ayesha Hazarika, while a panel including Penny Mordaunt, Vicky Pryce and Anand Menon will debate the legacy of Brexit.

Other political discussions will examine who really runs Britain, the future of America and the international risks facing the world.

The festival will also look beyond the headlines, with events examining artificial intelligence, climate change, health and weight-loss medication.

Entertainment is another major part of the programme, with Russell T Davies discussing his memoir, Andrew Davies reflecting on his career adapting some of Britain's bestknown novels for television, and Nigel Planer looking back on his life and career.

There will also be a celebration of Jilly Cooper, hosted by Caitlin Moran, featuring actress Katherine Parkinson, Bridget Jones creator Helen Fielding and members of Cooper's family and professional circle.

For music fans, Blur's Dave Rowntree will discuss the band's formative years, while Suede's Neil Codling and Mat Osman will reflect on the band's remarkable second act.

The festival's family programme will include Michael Rosen, MC Grammar, Liz Pichon, Katie Kirby, Rob

Biddulph, Harriet Muncaster and Maggie Aderin, alongside workshops, live shows and activities.

More than 50 author talks and careers events will also be staged specifically for schools, while the family programme contains more than 70 book shows and workshops.

This year's Big Read will centre on Virginia Evans' novel The Correspondent, with Cheltenham also being transformed by a literary trail inspired by the book.

The Cheltenham Writes Back project will see handwritten letter fragments appear around the town, while pop-up letterwriting stations will invite visitors to contribute their own messages.

The festival is also continuing its work with young readers and emerging writers, including its Reading for Schools programme, which organisers say reaches more than 12,000 pupils each year.

Cheltenham Festivals chief executive and artistic director Helen Marriage said the programme was intended to reflect the different ways people connect with stories, ideas and knowledge.

The festival will also feature guest curators Candice CartyWilliams and Matt Arlidge, who will bring their own programmes and perspectives to the event.

Booking opens first for Cheltenham Festivals Members on 27th August, with public booking opening on 3rd September.

The full festival programme is now available through Cheltenham Festivals.

FREE SUMMER EVENTS AT THE BREWERY QUARTER PM

10AM - 4

SPRAY A STENCIL DESIGN ON A VINYL RECORD WITH ANDY DICE DAVIES & TAKE IT HOME!

FRIDAY 14 AUGUST BEST FOR KIDS AGED

8-16

YOUNGER HOWEVER, LCO ME! KIDS WE

FREE TO TAKE PART!

Bringing together creativity, adventure and community in the heart of Cheltenham

12 NOON - 4 PM

TAKE ON OUR GIANT CLIMBING TOWER!

Dino adventure Paw Patrol: The

22 Augusst w o h s 4

JUST TURN UP & GET INVOLVED Show times

12 o clock 1:00pm 2:00pm and 3:00 pm

at Visit thebreweryquarter.co.uk to 昀nd out more

13

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

News

Cheltenham Lido – where summer memories were made Mark Hopkins looks back at the memories, friendships and summer days that have made Sandford Parks Lido a much-loved part of Cheltenham life for generations.

ASK anyone who grew up in Cheltenham before package holidays became affordable and they will probably tell you the same thing – if the sun was shining, there was only one place to be.

The destination was Sandford Parks Lido, a place that captured everything that was wonderful about an English summer.

Long before flights to Spain and Greece became the norm, Cheltenham had its own slice of holiday heaven. It wasn’t by the sea, and you couldn’t guarantee the weather, but none of that mattered. On a July or August day, the Lido felt every bit as exciting as a trip to the coast.

Opened in 1935, the Art Deco complex became one of the town’s favourite attractions.

Nearly 90 years later, it remains one of Britain’s finest surviving outdoor pools and one of the few places in Cheltenham where grandparents, parents and grandchildren can all share remarkably similar childhood memories.

For many of us, the summer holidays revolved around the weather forecast. If the morning sunshine broke through the curtains, the cry would go up around the house: “Can we go to the Lido?” Towels would be hurriedly stuffed into a bag, swimming trunks or costumes found at the last minute, and after what seemed an eternity, we’d arrive at those entrance gates.

Walking through the turnstiles always brought a feeling of excitement. The smell of chlorine hung in the air, mixed with freshly mown grass and suntan lotion. Lifeguards watched from their high chairs, whistles never far from their lips, while the sound of splashing, laughter and chatter echoed around the pool.

The lawns soon became a colourful sea of picnic blankets, deckchairs and windbreaks.

Families claimed their favourite spots before settling in for what was often an entire day.

Sandwiches wrapped in greaseproof paper appeared around lunchtime, followed by crisps, cakes and, if you were lucky, enough pocket money for an ice cream or a bottle of pop from the café.

14

Children seemed to have energy. They would spend hours diving, swimming, chasing friends around the poolside and inventing games that somehow involved getting everyone as wet as possible. Parents shouted reminders not to run, although they arrived a fraction too late.

For many Cheltenham youngsters, the Lido was where they first learnt to swim. There was the nervous gripping of the pool edge, the reassuring encouragement of swimming instructors and the proud moment when Mum or Dad realised their child had crossed the pool unaided for the very first time.

Teenagers, meanwhile, had different priorities. They gathered in groups, trying to appear effortlessly cool while hoping someone they fancied might notice them. The bravest showed off with racing dives, while others attempted spectacular somersaults that ended in glorious belly flops, much to everyone’s amusement.

The Lido was never just about swimming. It was about friendships. Schoolmates met there throughout the holidays, neighbours arranged family outings, and many local romances quietly began on those sunny lawns. Even now, you occasionally hear couples smile as they admit they first met beside the pool years ago.

Of course, this was Britain, and the weather rarely behaved itself.

There were summers when the Lido was packed from opening until closing time, but there were also days when dark clouds gathered unexpectedly, sending everyone scrambling for towels as a sudden downpour emptied the pool in minutes. More often than not, the rain would pass just as quickly, and before long everyone was back in the water pretending nothing had happened.

Like everything else, fashions changed over the years. The sensible woollen swimming costumes of the 1940s and 50s gave way to brightly coloured trunks, bikinis and ever-shorter shorts. Inflatable lilos, beach balls and oversized rubber rings appeared, while transistor radios provided the soundtrack of each passing decade before cassette players and eventually mobile phones took over.

Yet somehow the Lido itself never really changed. The same elegant Art Deco buildings still overlook the water, the same magnificent 50-metre pool stretches invitingly before visitors, and the same sense of anticipation is there every time someone walks through the gates.

Perhaps that is why the Lido means so much to Cheltenham.

While many outdoor pools around Britain disappeared during the latter part of the twentieth century, ours survived. It adapted, modernised where necessary and continued welcoming new generations. Today, alongside family swimming, it hosts fitness sessions, early morning lane swimming, winter swimming and special events like the annual dog swim at the end of each season.

What makes the Lido truly special is the memories it has given Cheltonians.

It is the child proudly collecting their first swimming certificate. It is the teenager enjoying the freedom of meeting friends without parents nearby. It is the family photograph taken beside the pool that still sits in an old album somewhere. It is the laughter, the sunshine, the occasional sunburn and the contented exhaustion after spending an entire day outdoors.

Every town has places that become part of its identity. In Cheltenham, the Promenade, Pittville Park, Montpellier Gardens and the Racecourse all tell part of our story. The Lido stands proudly alongside them.

As another summer unfolds, children will once again race excitedly towards the water while parents unpack picnics and grandparents watch with knowing smiles. The fashions may have changed, and mobile phones may now record every splash and smile, but the feeling is exactly the same as it was all those years ago.

In an age when so much seems to change at bewildering speed, there is something deeply comforting about a place that continues to bring simple happiness to generation after generation. Cheltenham Lido has been doing exactly that since 1935, and with a little luck, it will still be making summer memories for many years to come.

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Animal Shelter

Centenary celebration for the Animal Shelter This year the Cheltenham Animal Shelter are celebrating 100 years of caring for animals in need. To mark the occasion, they are putting on a Centenary Ball at the beautiful Pittville Pump Room with a wonderful evening of fine dining, live music and celebration CHELTENHAM Animal Shelter is marking its centenary with an evening of glamour, celebration and entertainment at the iconic Pittville Pump Room on Friday 11th September.

The black-tie Centenary Ball will celebrate 100 years of the shelter, with guests invited to gather at one of Cheltenham's most treasured historic venues for an evening of food, music and dancing.

From 6.30pm, guests will be

By Katie Bevan

welcomed with a sparkling drinks reception before taking their seats for a three-course dinner served in the Pump Room.

The celebrations will continue with live music from Tux Fizz, who will perform two high-energy sets to keep guests on the dance floor

The Pittville Pump Room.

throughout the evening.

Organisers say the Centenary Ball will provide an opportunity for friends and families to come together and celebrate the shelter's 100-year history while enjoying an evening of food, drinks and entertainment.

Guests are encouraged to dress in black tie for the occasion.

Tickets for the Centenary Ball are available at www.gawa.org.uk/event/ball.

You will be helping dogs like Reggie EVERY event you support helps us raise vital funds to provide care, shelter and second chances for vulnerable dogs, cats and small animals while they wait to find their forever home.

One of the dogs we’ve cared for this year is seven-year-old Reggie, who arrived at the Shelter after his family could no longer give him the time and attention he needed.

A friendly and affectionate

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Staffie, Reggie adores being around people and is a true champion cuddler, never missing an opportunity to enjoy a fuss or a cosy cuddle.

During a health check, our veterinary team discovered that one of Reggie’s toes was swollen. Further tests revealed it was cancerous, and he required surgery to have the affected toe amputated.

Thanks to the prompt diagnosis and expert care he

received, Reggie has made a fantastic recovery and is back to enjoying plenty of attention, affection and quality time with his favourite people.

By supporting our events, you help ensure that dogs like Reggie receive the specialist veterinary treatment, care and rehabilitation they need.

Thanks to this support Reggie has now gone on to enjoy a happy, healthy life in his loving new home.

Beautiful Reggie.

15

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

Recipes Steph Williams Follow Steph’s blog This Plate Is Pretty stephnicw.wixsite.com /thisplateispretty

Chili & Mango Salmon Protein Bowl Featuring juicy Salmon glazed in a fruity and slightly salty sauce.

This dish is very nutrition dense, containing much colour, fibre, omega-3, protein and fresh, crisp veggies for the perfect bowl. This dish will contain approximately 52g of protein and 37g of net carbs per serving.

Ingredients The Glaze - Serves 3 • 1/2 - 1 birds eye green or red chili pepper • 1.5 teaspoon minced ginger root • 3/4 tablespoon dark soy sauce • 125g diced mango • Juice and zest of 1 lime • 1 tablespoon water • Pinch of salt and pepper The Bowl - Serves 1 • 1 salmon fillet • 60g mixed grains • 40g cucumber • 1/2 avocado • 1/2 spring onion • 30g edamame beans • 2 radish • 40g red cabbage • 1 teaspoon pomegranate seeds • 1 teaspoon pumpkin seeds

Instructions l Pre-heat the oven to 190 degrees. l Slice, mince, chop your veggies as per your liking. l Combine the Mango Sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and cook on a medium heat for around 3 minutes, stirring continuously. It should go a deep golden brown colour. l Once you reach this, blend until smooth in a food processor. l Brush half of the sauce onto the Salmon fillets, and bake for around 10-12 minutes, basting half-way through and at the end. Tip For the last few minutes, switch from oven to grill for a little bit of charring. l Build your protein bowl and place the glazed Salmon on the top, drizzle with some lime and serve!

Recipe notes You can get very creative with a dish like this, it gives you a lot of freedom.

Dice/chop things how you want, include whatever colourful ingredients you wish.

Mixed grains come in many different forms, so be mindful of nutritional content.

The salmon also cooks well in the air fryer (Around 12 mins on 190 degrees).

This recipe is quite fibrous due to the grains, whilst still medium carb. Here I used a pre-prepared 5-grain mixed packet.

Frozen Yoghurt and Mixed Berry Bark Mixed Berry Frozen Yogurt Bark is a delicious and refreshing dessert that combines creamy Greek yogurt with vibrant mixed berries and crunchy granola. It’s, an absolute winner in this heat! You can get very creative with a recipe like this as it gives you a lot of healthy choices of topping, plus a lot of nutrition. It is fun for adults and kids, colourful and takes only 5-10 minutes to prepare, plus freezing time. Contains 60g of net carbs for the entire thing.

Ingredients 1 Bowl • 300g Greek yoghurt • 35g granola • 50g blackberries • 20g pomegranate seeds • 50g blueberries • 50g sliced strawberries Instructions l Grab a circular silicone mould, about 8 inches in diameter and start to build. l Start with spooning the yoghurt in to the mould, about 1cm thick and spread out evenly. l Scatter over the rest of the toppings. l Freeze for 3hr to set Ensure it rests flat

16

l Break in to shards to create your “bark” and serve!

Recipe notes For added sweetness, drizzle some sugar free honey over the bark at the end, and/or mix in a

teaspoon or two of sweetener to the yoghurt.

Extras like seeds etc are a great addition to this.

This recipe also doubles up as a yoghurt/berry "pizza" (prior to smashing).

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Casablanca:

Mark Hopkins

Eating Out

A little slice of Morocco in the heart of Cheltenham THERE are restaurants where you go simply because you’re hungry, and then there are restaurants where you go because you know you’ll leave happier than when you arrived. Casablanca on Winchcombe Street falls firmly into the second category.

Tucked away just a short stroll from Cheltenham’s town centre, Casablanca is quietly building a loyal following. It’s the sort of place that doesn’t need flashing neon signs or gimmicks. Instead, it relies on something far more powerful – consistently excellent food, genuine hospitality and an atmosphere that makes you feel as though you’ve been invited into somebody’s home rather than merely shown to a table.

Now, let’s get one thing out of the way. If you’re expecting a waiter dressed like Humphrey Bogart or someone at the door saying, “Play it again, Sam,” you might be disappointed. The only drama here is deciding what to order because, frankly, everything sounds tempting.

Owner Rachid has mastered the art of making guests feel welcome. Some restaurateurs seem to spend more time looking at booking screens than their customers, but not here.

Rachid greets people with a smile that suggests he’s genuinely pleased you’ve chosen to spend your evening in his restaurant. It’s an increasingly rare quality and one that sets the tone before the first mouthful arrives.

The décor transports you far beyond Gloucestershire. Rich colours, intricate lanterns and authentic Moroccan touches create a warm, relaxed setting that feels wonderfully different from the usual modern minimalist restaurants where every chair seems designed by someone who has never actually sat on one.

The menu is a journey through North African flavours. Fragrant tagines arrive gently bubbling beneath their traditional conical lids, releasing clouds of aromatic steam that could persuade even the most determined diner to order dessert before they’ve finished the main course. Tender lamb,

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

perfectly cooked chicken, beautifully spiced vegetables and fluffy couscous all combine to produce dishes that are comforting without being heavy.

The spices deserve a special mention. They aren’t there to challenge you to some fiery endurance contest. Instead, they’re blended with care, allowing cinnamon, cumin, coriander, saffron and ginger to complement one another rather than compete for attention.

Every mouthful seems to reveal another subtle layer of flavour.

If you’ve never tried Moroccan cuisine, Casablanca is the perfect introduction. If you’re already a fan, you’ll probably spend much of the evening nodding approvingly while wondering how soon you can justify coming back.

The service strikes that difficult balance between being attentive without hovering. Your glass never seems to stay empty for long, yet nobody interrupts your conversation every three minutes to ask whether everything is alright.

One of the great pleasures of dining out is escaping the rush of everyday life, and Casablanca understands this perfectly. Meals aren’t hurried. You’re encouraged to relax, savour the food and enjoy the company around you. In a world where everything seems to move at breakneck speed, that’s becoming something of a luxury.

Of course, no meal is complete without something sweet. The traditional Moroccan

pastries and desserts provide the perfect finale, especially when accompanied by a glass of refreshing mint tea. It’s the kind of tea that somehow manages to be both soothing and invigorating at the same time, although I suspect a little Moroccan magic might be involved somewhere along the way.

Cheltenham has no shortage of restaurants competing for your attention, but Casablanca has something that many larger establishments struggle to replicate – character. It feels personal. It feels authentic. Most importantly, it feels as though the people running it genuinely care that you have a memorable evening.

As I stepped back out onto Winchcombe Street, I couldn’t help thinking that restaurants like Casablanca remind us why independent businesses matter so much. They bring colour, personality and individuality to our town in a way that chain restaurants, however polished, rarely manage.

So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a quiet meal with friends or simply looking for an excuse to swap the usual fish and chips for something a little more adventurous, Casablanca deserves a place on your list.

Just one word of warning.

Don’t wear your tightest trousers. Moroccan hospitality has a habit of persuading you that just one more bite is an excellent idea… and somehow, it always is.

17

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

Legal

Can you protect your home from care fees?

Why more families are planning ahead ACROSS Gloucestershire, more homeowners are beginning to ask the same question: What happens to my home if I need long-term care?

With care fees now often exceeding £1,400 per week, many families are understandably concerned about how these costs could affect their savings, property, and the inheritance they hope to leave behind.

What often surprises people is that care funding in the UK is means-tested.

This means that, depending on personal circumstances, individuals with property and savings above certain thresholds may be expected to contribute towards the cost of their care.

For some families, this can include the value of the home.

As awareness grows, increasing numbers of people are beginning to review their affairs earlier and take a

18

more structured approach to later-life planning.

Professionals say one of the most important things is understanding that planning should take place before care is needed, rather than after circumstances have already changed.

There are a few established legal arrangements that may help families plan more effectively, depending on their circumstances.

These can include: • Reviewing how property ownership is structured; • Updating wills to reflect future wishes; • Considering trusts as part of estate planning; • Ensuring wider financial arrangements are properly organised;

Many people assume these conversations are only relevant later in life.

Advisers say earlier planning often provides greater flexibility, more options, and more time to make informed decisions without pressure.

Importantly, planning is not about avoiding responsibilities or making rushed decisions.

It is about understanding your position, ensuring your affairs are properly structured, and making sure your wishes are clearly documented for the future.

For many families, simply having clarity can provide significant peace of mind.

Increasingly, couples across Gloucestershire are choosing to review these areas as part

of wider discussions around retirement, inheritance, and protecting what matters most to them.

EARLY PLANNING CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE A simple review today may help provide greater clarity and confidence for the future.

DID YOU KNOW? • Care fees can exceed £80,000 per year.

• Many families are unaware the system is means-tested.

• Early planning may provide greater flexibility and control.

To speak to a local specialist for clear, practical guidance, call 0333 335 5875.

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Environment

Why is your house competing with a computer?

Ian Williams of Forever Green looks at how the growing energy demands of data centres could affect household bills – and why generating your own power could offer a way out HERE'S a question I hear at kitchen tables all the time: if renewable energy is supposed to be cheap, why does my bill keep going up?

There are several answers, but let me give you the one almost nobody mentions.

Your house is now bidding for electricity against some of the hungriest machines ever built.

Every search you run, every film you stream and every AI answer you're given

is produced in a data centre – a warehouse of computers that runs day and night and must never, ever lose power.

The International Energy Agency expects data centres' electricity consumption to rise sharply over the coming decade, and it is already reshaping energy markets worldwide.

Because they need utterly reliable, round-the-clock supply, much of that demand is still met with gas. Around

the world, the growth of data centres has pushed up demand for natural gas and, in some regions, delayed the retirement of fossil-fuel power stations. More demand chasing the same fuel means higher wholesale prices – and the British household bill is priced by the gas market.

When a data centre outbids you, you never see it happen.

You just see the number on your statement.

China is running a different

experiment. The world's largest energy consumer has invested so heavily in solar and wind that a growing share of its new demand is met with clean power rather than imported fuel – and because China also dominates the manufacture of panels and batteries, the equipment has become cheaper for the rest of us.

That's the quiet reason a domestic solar system costs a fraction of what it did when I

started out.

The technology giants can see where this is heading.

They're signing long-term renewable power deals and building their own clean generation, precisely so that their costs are no longer set by the gas market.

And that's my point, because it's a practical one. If the biggest electricity buyers on Earth are securing their own supply to escape gas prices, it's worth asking what

the household version of that decision looks like. It's sitting on your roof. A domestic solar and battery system is, in miniature, exactly what the technology giants are doing at scale: making your own power, so the price of your next unit is set by you.

You can't opt out of the digital age – this column probably reached you through a data centre. But you can opt out of paying its energy bill.

Families and solar panels I CAUGHT a thoughtprovoking segment on the BBC World Service recently, introduced by a mother talking about her fears of raising a family in what is undeniably a climate emergency.

The decision to have children has always meant balancing hope for the future against the realities of the present. The climate crisis has added new weight to the scales - rising temperatures, extreme weather, pressure on the natural world - and some prospective parents now ask openly whether it's right to bring another person into a warming world.

I'm not going to tell anyone whether to have children; that isn't my trade. But part of that question sits inside your own four walls, and that part has practical answers.

A home that makes its own

electricity takes a real bite out of a family's footprint. Solar panels and a battery let a household generate a substantial share of its own power instead of buying it from a gas-fired grid - a typical domestic system offsets as many carbon emissions as around 55 trees while lowering, and in some cases wiping out, the electricity spend.

For a family, the money matters just as much as the carbon. Lower bills free up income for everything children need. And, as I wrote about the grid's near-miss in June, a properly designed system with battery back-up keeps the lights, the fridge and the broadband running when the network has a bad night - no small comfort as heat pumps and EVs multiply on local wires.

There's a quieter benefit too.

Children who grow up watching their roof power the house treat clean energy as normal. The system becomes a lesson in where energy comes from and what it costs - one that tends to stick for life.

Honesty requires a caveat.

Solar panels are not a complete answer to the climate crisis, and they don't cancel the footprint of family life. Insulation, cutting waste, and the choices you make beyond the meter all count too.

But underneath it all, that mother on the radio was asking whether her choices can matter. Inside her own home, they measurably can. A home energy system won't fix the planet. It fixes your corner of it, cuts the bills while it does, and shows your children what taking responsibility actually looks like.

Ian Williams designs domestic solar, battery and backup systems across Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire for Forever Green Energy. Tel: 01242 370308. These notes are general information, not financial advice. www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

21

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

TEST YOUR BRAINPOWER Puzzles

1. Who was the last Anglo-Saxon king of England?

6. Margaret Thatcher was the MP for which constituency?

2. Which instrument is officially called a pluviometer?

7. Which company runs Europe’s largest horse bloodstock auctions at Newmarket?

3. Kieran Culkin, who won the 2025 Best Supporting Actor Oscar for the film A Real Pain, is the brother of which famous child actor?

8. In snooker, how many points are awarded for potting the pink ball?

10. Yellowstone, the neo-Western drama TV series starring Kevin Costner, is set in which US state?

OI

RT

EO

3

DR

2 PE LT

OH EO

LO

MR

RP

EA

YO PA

3 15

13

8 2

OR

2

3

2

2

3

4

6

7

8 10

11

9

10 13

11

12

13 15

16

15

14

16

17

18

19

17 20

21 21

22

23

EA

NW

EK

LS

Here are two miniature five-square crosswords using the same grid – but the letters have been mixed up.

You have to work out which letters belong to which crossword.

ACROSS 1. West Country seat can be wheeled out (4,5) 6. Manx cat returns to drink (3) 8. Advancing by degrees towards the answer (7,6) 9. Some Londoners consume fruit (5) 10. Celebrity ate out with goddess (7) 11. Type of ground that perversely includes the Downs! (6) 13. Inviting a southern ruler (6) 16. Before the second half of July close very firmly (7) 18. Hurry in the various heats (5) 20. It’s a woman’s privilege to come to a different opinion (6,3,4) 22. Before the Queen takes note (3) 23. Arresting for driving a car gently to begin with (7,2)

Place the four signs (add, subtract, multiply, divide) one in each circle so that the total of each across and down line is the same.

Perform the first calculation in each line first and ignore the mathematical law which says you should always perform division and multiplication before addition and subtraction.

DOWN 1. Hefty rock upended (3) 2. Add up to the full amount (5) 3. Locks up behind the head (7) 4. Fellow in Ghana knitted woollen blanket (6) 5. Runs oven for cook (5) 6. Warrior is imbibing a drink one knocked back (7) 7. Wretched hound lacking nothing as a swimmer (9) 9. Has to include nothing before pain – it’s under one’s nose (9) 12. Pull an old glove from the suitcases (7) 14. Lively movements of notes (7) 15. Pony distraught at going round most of the snake (6) 17. Regiment loses men in overturning fierce animal (5) 19. Playground music? (5) 21. Study at the end of the garden (3)

NONAGRAM

QUICK CROSSWORD 1

2

3

4

5

8

5

6

7

9

9

10

10

11

11

12

13

14 16

13

15

17

18 19

21

20

19 23

22

23

25

26

27

24

24

25

28

30

29

31

SOLUTIONS

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Pupa (9) 6. Limb (3) 8. Bandit (7) 9. Legends (5) 10. Explosive device (4) 11. Seed (3) 13. Ready money (4) 14. Eulogy (5) 16. Obedient follower (inf.)

(3-3) 18. Church officer (6) 19. Condition (5) 21. Ear part (4) 22. Large body of water (3) 23. Competent (4) 27. Complain peevishly (5) 28. Set apart (7) 30. Beam (3) 31. Communications device (9)

1. Young animal (3) 2. Rule (5) 3. Close violently (4) 4. Young boy (6) 5. Oil reservoir (4) 6. Draw in (7) 7. Bad luck (9) 10. Pilgrim Fathers’ ship (9) 11. Gasps (5) 12. Starchy food (5) 14. Dance step (3) 15. Born as (3) 17. Financial grant (7) 20. Antenna (6) 24. Well done (5) 25. Shut up (4) 26. Frolic (4) 29. Before (3)

25

10

3

20

18

I

4

20

9

12

26

25

3

10 18

10 13

20

16

14

10

25

20

10

11

6

20

21

16

20 26

16

1

25

6

12

3

20

1

11

20

20

11

11

13 23

20

26

11

7

13

1

20

18 24

10

17

25

11 13

23 20

11 10

18 16

20 11

3

25

19

15

5

13 3

7

6 20

26

16 18

24 6

20

1

6

24

11

1

6

22 20

3

20

8

6

20

11

13

10 26

18

25

3

20 3

10

16

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

F

E

L

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

SUDOKU Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box.

L

How many words of four letters or more can you make from this Nonagram? Each word must use the central letter, and each letter may be used only once. At least one word using all nine letters can be found.

Guidelines: 32 Good; 38 Very Good; 45 Excellent.

Any word found in the Concise Oxford Dictionary (Tenth Edition) is eligible with the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where another variant is also eligible).

16

10

1

16

16

L A G A

25

23

R O T

QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Chrysalis; 6 Arm; 8 Brigand; 9 Myths; 10 Mine; 11 Pip; 13 Cash; 14 Paean; 16 Yes-man; 18 Sexton; 19 State; 21 Lobe; 22 Sea; 23 Able; 27 Whine; 28 Isolate; 30 Ray; 31 Telephone.

Down – 1 Cub; 2 Reign; 3 Slam; 4 Laddie; 5 Sump; 6 Attract; 7 Mischance; 10 Mayflower; 11 Pants; 12 Pasta; 14 Pas; 15 Née; 17 Subsidy; 20 Aerial; 24 Bravo; 25 Pent; 26 Romp; 29 Ere.

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: EQUALISER: 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Across – 1 Bath chair; 6 Sup; 8 Getting warmer; 9 Melon; 10 Clockwise from top left – multiply; F B A X N Y E V J U G C O Astarte; 11 Upland; 13 Asking; 16 Tightly; 18 Haste; 20 add; divide; subtract. Total: 6.

Change her mind; 22 Ere; 23 Running in.

EASY SUDOKU HARD SUDOKU NONAGRAM: Down – 1 Big; 2 Total; 3 Chignon; 4 Afghan; 5 Roast; 6 5 2 4 6 3 8 9 1 7 9 5 4 1 8 2 6 7 3 Samurai; 7 Porbeagle; 9 Moustache; 12 Luggage; 14 agar; agio; agora; alar; alga; algal; ALLIGATOR; allot; 6 7 1 9 2 4 5 3 8 1 2 7 9 6 3 4 8 5 altar; alto; aorta; argali; argol; argot; aria; aril; atoll; Scherzi; 15 Python; 17 Tiger; 19 Swing; 21 Den. atrial; gait; gaita; gala; galiot; gall; gaol; glair; glia; 6 3 8 7 4 5 2 9 1 8 9 3 5 7 1 4 2 6 glial; gloat; goal; goat; gora; goral; gorilla; grail; groat; 4 9 5 3 7 8 1 6 2 3 8 7 4 5 2 6 9 1 iota; ital; lair; largo; lari; lariat; latria; liar; lira; oral; 9 4 6 1 8 7 2 5 3 3 7 1 2 9 6 8 5 4 otalgia; raga; rail; raita; rata; ratio; rial; rota; taiga; tail; 2 1 5 3 9 6 8 7 4 2 8 6 4 5 1 7 3 9 tailor; tala; tall; taro; tiara; toga; tolar; trail; trial.

8 1 3 6 2 9 5 4 7 1 6 2 7 4 9 3 8 5 FIVE ALIVE: 7 3 9 8 6 5 1 4 2 7 6 2 5 3 4 9 1 8 (1) Across – Motor; Lorry; Newel.

Down – Melon; Threw; Royal.

4 5 8 2 1 3 7 6 9 5 4 9 8 1 7 3 2 6 (2) Across – Aired; Tempo; Yanks.

Down – Aptly; Roman; Drops.

QUIZ CHALLENGE: 1 Harold II; 2 Rain gauge; 3 Macaulay Culkin; 4 It is interlaced with metallic threads; 5 Taipei City; 6 Finchley; 7 Tattersalls; 8 Six; 9 Marlin; 10 Montana.

1

T

2

Z

3

R

4

Q

5

W

6

H

7

M

8

K

9

D

10

I

S

11

P

12

L

13

CROSS CODE

22

12

1 6

1

NY

11

2

23

5

12 3

9

2

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD 1

10

10 20

4 3

CROSS CODE

EASY

5. What is the capital city of Taiwan?

MA

EQUALISER

HARD

4. What is unusual about fabric described as lamé?

9. What M is a large marine game fish with an elongated upper jaw forming a point?

FIVE ALIVE

5

1

6 4

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

9 7 8 6

9

6 8 3 8

4 7 1

2 9 5

1 2

3 4

7 6 6 5 1

3 7 8 4

© Sirius Media Services Ltd.

Quiz Challenge

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

COVENTRY ROOFING GROUP LIMITED Your Local Roofing Experts Covering Cheltenham & Surrounding Areas All Work Fully Guaranteed | Free, No-Obligation Quotes Is your roof showing its age? Don’t wait for a small problem to become a big expense. Trust the specialists at Coventry Roofing Group Limited for all your roofing needs, from minor repairs to complete new installations.

Call Today to Protect Your Home:

We Offer a Full Range of Services: New Roof Installations: Tiled, slate, or flat roofs, installed to the highest standards.

Dry Ridge & Dry Verge Systems: A modern, low-maintenance solution to secure your roofline.

EPDM Rubber Roofs: Durable, weatherproof, and energy-efficient for flat roofs.

Torch-Down Felt Roofs: A cost-effective and reliable option for sheds, garages, and extensions.

General Roof Repairs: Leaks, missing tiles, moss removal, and gutter repairs – we fix it all.

Why Choose Us? Local Reputation: Years of trusted service in the Cheltenham area.

Quality Workmanship: All our roofers are fully qualified and insured.

Peace of Mind: Every project comes with a comprehensive guarantee.

01386 366784 01789 616608 01242 379871

COVENTRY & CHELTENHAM LANDSCAPING Transform your property with our high-quality surfacing and landscaping services.

We work across Cheltenham and surrounding areas with expert craftsmanship and reliable service.

RESIN BOUND & RESIN BONDED Smooth, durable, permeable surfaces in a range of colours – perfect for driveways, paths and patios.

BLOCK PAVING Wide selection of styles, colours and patterns including herringbone, stretcher bond and cobble effects. Long-lasting and easy to maintain.

TARMAC / ASPHALT Smooth, cost-effective and durable surfacing ideal for driveways and large areas.

DECORATIVE CHIPPINGS & GRAVEL Budget-friendly, attractive and low-maintenance for borders, paths and garden areas.

NATURAL STONE SLABBING Premium Yorkstone, Sandstone and Slate for elegant patios and outdoor living spaces.

CONCRETE & SEALED SURFACES Affordable, strong and available in plain or imprinted finishes to suit any style.

TURF & LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION Full garden preparation, turf laying and general landscaping works.

NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE

01242 379871 Testimonial

“Coventry and Cheltenham Landscaping installed our resin driveway, and we are so happy with the result. Great quality work, reliable team and completed on time. Highly recommended in the Cheltenham area.”

Mr & Mrs T Harris, Cheltenham.

Testimonial

“Had block paving done by this company in Cheltenham.

Excellent service, fair pricing and quality finish. Clean, professional and done exactly as promised.Will definitely use them again.”

Mr D Roberts, Cheltenham.

Professional Services To advertise here call Mark 07983 179 225 Open Mon-Fri 8am To 4.30pm For Trade and Retail Free Parking Available

Units 3&4, The Runnings, 4 Competitive Prices Kingsditch Trading Estate, 4 Quality Certified Cheltenham. GL51 9NJ 4 Accredited Products 4 Highest Standards Glass cut to size.

NOW OPEN FOR ALL YOUR GLASS NEEDS. CALL 01242 505750 n Extentions n Conversions n Refurbishments & renovations n Kitchens n Bathrooms

Unique Group specialise in Contract Cleaning, Builders Cleans and End of Tenancy Cleaning.

We cover all of The Cotswolds and surrounding areas.

4.9 Google Rated with 44 Reviews Unique Group - Intelligent Cleaning for Business Contact us for Commercial Deep Cleaning too.

CALL 01242 339099 steve@auniquegroup.com

Property Creations Cheltenham is a dedicated, professional building and carpentry company providing services in Cheltenham and surrounding areas. We provide services such as extensions, renovations, refurbishments, garage conversions and much more...

Quality carpentry and building specialists with over 15 years experience

Shurdington Nurseries, Whitelands Lane, Little Shurdington, Cheltenham. GL51 4TX

07854 057358

Propertycreations7@gmail.com www.property-creations.com

Cotswold Deep Cleaning cover all of The Cotswolds.

We specialise in;

H Deep Cleaning H Builders Cleans H End of Tenancy Cleaning

Cotswold Deep Cleaning is 5H Rated on Google Get your deep cleaning quote today

CALLsteve@auniquegroup.com 01242 339099

To advertise here call Mark 07983 179 225

Professional Services

Fast, Reliable Skip Hire

Fast, Reliable Skip Hire Recycled Aggregates Recycled Aggregates Construction Aggregates Get in Touch

01452 536536

Construction Aggregates Decorative & Landscaping Products Decorative & Landscaping Products Muck Away & Grab Hire

info@allstone.co.uk Allstone House, Myers Road, Gloucester GL1 3QD

Muck Away & Grab Hire

01452 290390

Visit www.speedyskips.co.uk

Visit www.speedyskips.co.uk

www.monstermix.co.uk

Southern Site, Eastern Avenue depot, Eastern Avenue, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL4 6PQ

CHELTENHAM

FLOORING SERVICES Carpets Safety flooring All other types of flooring

TEL: 07903 846003 / 07950 478341 www.cheltenhamflooringservices.co.uk FOR ALL OF YOUR FLOORING NEEDS

RENOVATION SPECIALISTS

Residential & Commercial • Alterations & Extensions Decoration, Maintenance, Repair & Restoration

Quality workmanship at sensible prices

www.craftsmenbuilders.co.uk • mencrafts@ymail.com

07716 007326

MT Landscaping & Design Ltd Alongside our landscaping services we now offer a fully licenced waste disposal service around Gloucestershire.

For a no obligation quote call

07394317300 n Extentions n Conversions n Refurbishments & renovations n Kitchens n Bathrooms n Landscaping

M G Wynn Limited Crowned Winner of Johnstone’s Painter of the Year

Painting & Decorating Services Our painting and decorating company provides you with flawlessly professional work at reasonable prices. You can rely on us whether you require renovation, painting, wallpapering, coving, and plastering. l INTERIORS l EXTERIORS l DUST-FREE SANDING

Property creations garden rooms and landscape division Quality carpentry

For a quote call

Shurdington Nurseries, Whitelands Lane, Little Shurdington, Cheltenham. GL51 4TX

01684 274967 or 07788 745033

E-mail: mgwynn@ymail.com www.mgwynn.co.uk

We are a dedicated, professional building and carpentry company providing services in Cheltenham and surrounding areas. We provide services such as extensions, renovations, refurbishments, garage conversions and much more...

07854 057358

Propertycreations7@gmail.com

www.property-creations.com

and building specialists with over 15 years experience

RANT

E

D•

•

UA

E

Supplying and fitting qualit y Doors and Windows

G

B E S T P R IC

E

Huge range of colours & styles Several choices of materials Aluminium / Composite / UPVC Professional installation by a local family run business Competitive prices on made to measure doors & windows

01242 304 305

Recent Local Installations

Unit L Churcham Ind Est, Cheltenham, GL53 7DF

www.bencewindows.co.uk

INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTOR

We are a Cheltenham based family-owned funeral service, with over 45 years’ experience in the profession.

Honouring lives, comforting loss.

Call 01242 530 683 info@iangeorgefunerals.co.uk

www.iangeorgefunerals.co.uk

Trusted Local Roofing Contractors

From comprehensive roof repairs to quality upgrade installations, everything is covered by our expert team of roofing contractors. l Roofing l Gutters l Conversions l Repairs l Soffits l Flat roofing l Fascias l Conservatories l Rubber roofing

Call 01242 800 659

info@apexcladdingandroofing.co.uk www.apexcladdingandroofing.co.uk

Quality Carpets, Fitted Properly New family-run carpet shop offering honest advice, expert fitting, and great value on carpets, vinyl & laminate. ✔ Free measuring & quotes ✔ No pushy sales Visit us today or call to book your free measure.

01242 639316

Great opening deals in store now!

Free underlay or free fitting on selected ranges.

Unit P4c Runnings Road Kingsditch Trading Estate. GL51 9NQ

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Finance

MONEY TALKS Free money - is it actually the answer?

I HAVE been hearing a lot lately about wealth inequality.

You probably have too.

People like Gary Stevenson, a former City trader who now campaigns on this stuff, says the gap between the very rich and everyone else is getting dangerous.

His answer is a wealth tax.

Take money from those at the top and share it out.

I get it. I really do.

The trouble is, the evidence says it does not really work. And the reason why is something I stumbled across this week that honestly blew my mind.

Bear with me because it sounds complicated but it is not.

It is called econophysics.

Which is basically what happens when physicists get interested in money. They used the same maths they use to track how energy moves between particles and applied it to how money moves between people. And what they found was extraordinary.

They called it the Yard Sale Model. Here is the idea. Think of two people going to the same shop and buying the same thing. One has £100 in their account.

The other has £10,000. The purchase costs them both £20. For the person with £100, that is a fifth of everything they have. For the person with £10,000, it barely registers.

Scale that up to every purchase, every transaction, every day, across an entire economy, for years. The person with less is always staking a bigger slice of what they have. The person with more is barely touched.

Even when everything is completely fair, with no cheating and no exploitation, wealth drifts upward. Always. That is what the maths shows.

The bit that really got me is this; if you gave everyone in the country exactly the same amount of money tomorrow, without changing anything else, the research says the same concentration

Fanny Snaith offers money coaching and financial therapy. www.fannysnaith.com

07487 890 165

of wealth would return. The same pattern. Because the structure that creates it is still there.

So a one-off wealth tax, as satisfying as it sounds, does not fix it. The problem is not something that happened in the past. It is happening all the time, in every transaction, every single day.

Which is where Universal Basic Income comes in.

UBI is simple. Every person in the country gets a regular payment from the Government. No forms. No conditions. Not means tested. It just arrives every month because you live here. Whether you are working or not, rich or not.

Everyone gets it.

Countries have been trying this. Finland gave 2,000 unemployed people around £490 a month, no strings, for two years. Did they stop bothering? No. They were less stressed, happier, and slightly more likely to be in work by the end than people who got nothing. In Stockton in California, people given $500 a month actually got more full-time jobs.

Because having a bit of security meant they could take time to find something decent rather than taking anything out of desperation.

In Kenya a charity has been running a twelve-year trial with over 21,000 people and whole communities have benefited, not just the people receiving the money.

Wales has been running its

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

own trial since 2022.

England is planning its first one now.

You might be surprised to hear that versions of this already exist. Child Benefit is a universal payment. The State Pension is basically a UBI for people over 66.

Alaska has paid every resident an annual dividend from its oil money for over 40 years.

The argument against is mainly the cost. A UK wide scheme could cost anywhere between £45 billion and £200 billion a year depending on how much each person gets. That is serious money and someone has to pay for it.

Here is the thing though.

UBI is not the same as a wealth tax. A wealth tax tries to correct the problem once. UBI works against it continuously, every month, permanently. Which is exactly what you need when the problem never stops.

And yet, I have known people who earn considerably more than me who have far less to show for it. And people on more modest incomes who have built something solid and real over time. The difference is rarely the amount coming in. It is what they do with it. The habits they have built. The beliefs they carry about what they deserve. The way they manage money day-today.

So UBI, interesting as it is, is only part of the answer. The econophysics tells us the structural problem is real and relentless. And the other part, the part I work on every day with the people I coach, is just as real. The beliefs we have inherited about money. The sense of self-worth that says we do or do not deserve financial security. The habits and skills that either build something over time or gradually drain it away.

A floor beneath everyone matters enormously. What you build on top of it matters just as much.

Are Your Finances Leaving You Feeling Frustrated and Overwhelmed?

Do you secretly worry about your financial future?

Do you create a budget but fail to stick to it?

Maybe you have never been good with money?

If this sounds like you - I can help transform your finances with the 8 week online..

My Money Makeover course > Money Secrets From The UK’s Top Money Coach > Ready Made Tools And Resources > Lifelong Strategies And Systems That Work > Revolutionary Mindset Shifts

With Fanny Snaith Certified Money Coach www.fannysnaith.com 07487 890 165 Scan or go to https://fannysnaith.com/mymoney-makeover

27

Friday 14th August 2026

YearsGoneBy

Cheltenham Post

R

Memories of Cheltenham’s past

Churchdown Village Junior School about 1979 Phil Stephenson, Barry Preece, Unknown, Iain Chalmers, Dave Simms, Adrian Osborne, James Squires, Paul Pulling, Mrs Hobbs (Games Teacher), Unknown, Martin Webb, Clayton Harris, Paul Holford, Unknown, Marc Davies, Iain Tuffill.

Borough United, 1979.

Cheltenham Town team photo from 1950’s.

Churchdown Village Junior School about 1979 Iain Chalmers, Paul Pulling, Paul Holford, Mrs Hobbs (Games Teacher), James Squires, Marc Davies, Barry Preece, Martin Webb, Ian Tuffill, Adam Davies.

Do you recognise any of the people in these pictures? Get in touch and send your old photos via email to be included in our ‘Years Gone By’ feature. Email mark@cheltenhampost.co.uk

Caring for people in Cheltenham since 1946 Our charity provides day care, respite, independent living, residential and nursing care, with specialist knowledge of dementia and end of life care.

01242 303220 / www.lilianfaithfull.co.uk 28 Chelt Post Banner 50x258 Workings.indd 4

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk 19/02/2026 8:28 am

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Sport

Mitres battle to heroic victory at Shaftesbury BISHOPS Cleeve played 96 minutes with ten men on Saturday after Jamal Lawrence's first-minute red card. Goals from Matt Bower and Steve Davies brought a dramatic turnaround after they fell behind to Dawid Regula's first-half goal.

The action came immediately at Cockrams on Saturday, a rogue elbow from Jamal Lawrence within 60 seconds deemed serious enough for an immediate dismissal. A far-from-ideal start to the season at what would already have been a difficult opening game against last season's losing play-off finalists.

They would take the lead in the 25th minute, with good play from the Rockies seeing Louis Sweeten feed the ever-prolific Dawid Regula. He made no mistake, beating Lewis Clayton and finding the bottom-right corner after a rebounded tackle.

It went from worse to even worse, as Will Turner was forced off with an ankle injury in the 30th minute and Steve Davies took to the pitch in his place… perhaps a case of divine intervention, as fate still had

By Ben Ware its hand to play.

After three minutes of added time, Cleeve entered the break just a goal down, the ten men battling hard to stay in the game.

Shaftesbury would come close to doubling their lead ten minutes into the second half, substitute Davies taking his man out on the edge of the box and picking up a yellow card for his efforts. A defensive header glanced the ball onto the crossbar, and Cleeve escaped once more.

The game was far from over, however, with Cleeve showing more than just signs of life. Penalty appeals were waved away after a Cleeve player was taken out in the box in identical fashion to an earlier incident that the referee had deemed worthy of a Shaftesbury free kick.

The 67th minute then brought the big moment, Jack Carter receiving the ball from Charlie Holliday before crossing to Matt Bower, who headed home to level the game.

Twenty minutes later and

Manager Paul Collicutt (left), with coach Freddy Ward.

the miraculous turnaround was complete. Steve Davies, brought on due to Turner's injury, saw his effort deflected and into the net to win the game.

A few chances went Shaftesbury's way in the dying stages, but they couldn't beat Clayton again and Cleeve held on for a huge three points on the opening day.

New attendance record at Bishops Cleeve BISHOPS Cleeve Development set a new attendance record when Tewkesbury Town visited Kayte Lane on Saturday.

The Marcliff Gloucestershire County League fixture between two of the league’s favourites attracted 158 people, eclipsing the previous record by 53, set in this fixture last season. Before this, 104 came through the door for a Hellenic Division

Two West game against Fairford Town Reserves in 2024.

The overall club record saw 1,365 come through the turnstiles for a Southern League Division One South & West game against Hereford FC on the 27th of December 2016. The Ladies First Team set their record when 214 watched them play Longlevens in the Gloucestershire County Women’s Football League.

Speaking after the game, Development Manager Alex Cheal said: “Despite the final score, I hope everyone enjoyed the game. It was a fiercely contested local derby, and the players were grateful for all of the support.”

They next face Filton Athletic at home on Saturday 15th August after the Men’s First Team play Swindon Supermarine on Friday night.

Development fall to late derby day defeat BISHOPS Cleeve have made a number of new additions over the summer with five players signing on the dotted line.

Jack Carter, Jamal Lawrence and Charlie Holliday join from Melksham Town and Fairford Town while Matt Bower and Aaron EvansHarriott (pictured) also return to the club after time away last season.

Bishops Cleeve Development hosted Tewkesbury Town in their first home game of the 2026/27 league season, looking to add to their opening-day victory over Mangotsfield Rocks.

The local derby ended 1-0 to the visitors, who capitalised on Cleeve being down to ten men following Henry Danter-Welch’s questionable dismissal at the

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

By Dan Brian start of the second half.

The game’s first real chance went to Tewkesbury, as a saved effort fell to their centre-forward in the sixyard box. His powerful strike flew over the bar, however, keeping the score at 0-0 after 16 minutes.

Ten minutes later, a Cleeve foul gave Tewkesbury a chance to attack their opponents’ box.

A great save from Isaac Parry kept the game goalless, and the resulting corner flew over everyone in the middle.

In the second minute of first-half stoppage time, the Mitres survived another corner before successfully defending a long throw, with a Tewkesbury handball giving them a free-kick.

Five minutes later, the visitors weren’t ready to head into half-time without a goal, and a fantastic effort very nearly broke the deadlock. It would have done if not for another fine save from Parry to prevent the ball from reaching the top-left corner.

After a quiet first half, the fans at Kayte Lane only had to wait five minutes for the first slice of drama in the second, as a controversial red card was shown to Danter-Welch. On first glance, the challenge looked a good one, but the referee thought otherwise.

Ten minutes later, a lastditch tackle bailed Tewkesbury out at the back, as a low ball from Monty New looked destined to meet Sam Smith in the middle. Smith did, however, meet the subsequent corner

but could only turn his effort wide at the back post.

With 72 minutes on the clock, Kian Gardiner looked to be going all the way as he danced through the Tewkesbury defence, but was stopped at the last moment by the oncoming goalkeeper.

Five minutes later, it was Tewkesbury’s turn to attack, and they were unlucky not to snatch the lead as a header across goal flew just past the back post.

Just as it looked like the game would end goalless, Tewkesbury won it at the death, firing home after a slight scramble in the box in the first minute of injury time.

The Devs’ attention now turns to next weekend, when they host Filton Athletic in their third game of the season.

PICTURE By Peter Langley

29

Friday 14th August 2026

Cheltenham Post

Sport

Bracey ton helps Gloucestershire to win over Notts GLOUCESTERSHIRE 282-6 (Bracey 103, Price 59, Phillips 61*, Stone 3-52, Hutton 3-30), beat Notts 279 (Hameed 85, Verreynne 85, Rao 4-44, De Lange 3-37) by 4 wickets.

James Bracey scored a hard-hitting hundred to lead Gloucestershire to a fourwicket Metro Bank One Day Cup victory over Nottinghamshire Outlaws at the College Ground, Cheltenham.

The left-hander posted 103 and dominated a secondwicket stand of 153 with Ollie Price, who made 59,

while Joe Phillips raised a superb unbeaten 61 as the home side reached a target of 280 with five balls to spare.

Haseeb Hameed and Kyle Verreynne both scored 85 after Notts had lost the toss, but Aman Rao and Marchant de Lange claimed 4-44 and 337 respectively as the Outlaws were bowled out for 279 in 48.3 overs.

Ben Martindale and Freddie McCann raised 50 inside 11 overs as the Outlaws made a solid start. But a burst of 3-20 put the home side back in business, Ollie Price accounting for McCann, and

Rao removing Tayyab Tahir and Martindale in a spell of 2-13 in six overs.

Although Notts had to tread carefully at 72-3, Test batters Hameed and Verreynne took control, compiling steadily to advance the score to 120-3 at halfway. Pulling and driving with authority, Hameed went to a chanceless half century from 64 balls, while Verreynne's wristy elegance carried him to the same landmark via 48 deliveries, the 100 partnership occupying 18 overs.

Spin accounted for half the overs bowled and Hameed,

seeking acceleration, skyed to mid-wicket off the bowling of Ed Middleton, much to the relief of home supporters in a sell-out Festival crowd. When Price had Verreynne caught behind with the score 265-5 in the 46th, 300 remained an attainable goal.

De Lange and Rao clearly had different ideas, between them initiating a collapse in which the last six wickets fell in 17 balls for 12 runs as Gloucestershire's bowlers seized back control.

Hutton's accuracy did for Cameron Bancroft, but Bracey and Price safely negotiated the new ball. The more aggressive of the two,

Bracey went to 50 from 52 balls, while Price flourished after the introduction of spin.

The hundred partnership occupied 101 deliveries as Bracey opened his shoulders to apply pressure, his belligerence forcing a litany of errors in the field.

Playing the supporting role, Price reached a 72-ball 50 moments before Bracey went to three figures, his sixth ListA hundred arriving in 82 balls via his seventeenth four, a straight-driven blow that brought up the 150 partnership.

Gloucestershire appeared to be cruising when Stone produced a dramatic burst of

three wickets in seven balls to turn the game on its head. He had Bracey held in the covers, pinned Price lbw and bowled Joseph Eckland without scoring, at which point Gloucestershire were 173-4, requiring a further 107 from 20.1 overs.

Demonstrating sound temperament, new batters Phillips and Tommy Boorman staged a nerveless alliance of 68 to put the chase back on track. But Hutton removed Boorman and Daz Ahmed in the 43rd to render the outcome uncertain. Partnered

by Middleton, Phillips then went to his maiden List-A 50 to settle the issue.

Records tumble as Gloucester Women win in Cheltenham THE Towergate Cheltenham Cricket Festival opened with a record-breaking afternoon as Gloucestershire Women defeated Sussex Sharks in a historic encounter at Cheltenham College.

After winning the toss, Sussex elected to field, but Gloucestershire made the perfect start as Izzy Storrar and Chloe Brewer put together a commanding 90-run opening partnership.

Following Storrar's dismissal, Brewer continued to build the innings alongside Prarthana Reddy, with the pair adding an impressive 154 for the second wicket.

History was made as Brewer brought up the first century of this year's Festival and, in doing so, became the first Gloucestershire Women player to score a List A century.

The Warwickshire loanee eventually fell for a magnificent 104, leaving the field to a standing ovation from the Cheltenham crowd and securing her place in Gloucestershire history.

Reddy followed soon after for 80, her highest score of the

30

season, before Gloucestershire's middle order added valuable cameos to propel the hosts to 319-6 – the highest-ever innings total recorded by Gloucestershire Women.

Geach leads the way with historic five-for Defending a record total, Gloucestershire made the perfect start as Caitlin Belcher trapped Collis LBW for four.

Emily Geach then struck with another LBW before

Charlie Phillips took a superb second-attempt catch off her own bowling to leave Sussex in early trouble.

Nancy Harman and Chiara Green steadied the visitors with a strong partnership, but Gloucestershire turned the game decisively in the final powerplay.

Geach claimed two more wickets while Alice Bird also struck twice as wickets began to tumble, piling the pressure back onto the Sharks.

With the required rate climbing and wickets continuing to fall, Gloucestershire closed in on victory.

Geach completed an inspired spell by claiming the final wicket, finishing with a magnificent five-wicket total.

It was the first five-wicket haul by a Gloucestershire Women player and the perfect ending to a remarkable opening day in Cheltenham.

A record total, a maiden century, a historic five-for and victory – the 2026 Towergate Cheltenham Cricket Festival could hardly have asked for a better start.

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

Cheltenham Post

Friday 14th August 2026

Sport

Cheltenham Town home loss to Championship Charlton Continued from back page “Robbie Cundy has been excellent since I've been here, and he's made two mistakes in the last two games now, really.

“He knows on that one there, he has tried to speed up that ball across the back, but it wasn't really on. I understand why he did it, but it was just the wrong decision. That puts us on the back foot really.

Their finishes have been incredible. We are talking about a good few million pounds that those goals are worth. You'll see in a short space of time those players; there have already been bids in for them, I know that. They will be going for big money soon.

“We always knew we'd be up against it today. At their top end of the pitch, they have some good players, really good players. The lads worked incredibly hard and I don't have any gripes with them.

We knew what we were coming up against today. A bit more determination in the second half and we started to win those duels, which we didn't win enough of in the first half. I think they sniffed it as well because their team started getting bigger and then our team started getting smaller! But we kept going until the end, and it's really difficult when you go in 3-0 down because the lads will be thinking 'we are not scoring four goals against these' because we have already played really well and not scored a goal. The goal helped us, but we needed to try and

get another one.

“They haven't half done some distance today and some of their high-speed running; they are going to be really sore on Monday. When we look at this one being the back end of our pre-season, it was a great game for us, against a good team.”

The perfect trial before the league starts for Cotterill’s side, a good run and back to reality.

He continued: “I was happy with them in the first half.

Anyone at any time can make a mistake; that can happen.

There is nothing I can do about that, other than the player making a better decision at that moment. But their finishes, two of them were postage stamp; you don't save them. They are unbelievable shots, and I was right behind them. That top end of the pitch, we are

talking a few million for those players. There was not a lot we could do about that.

“One dropped to George (Miller) after he scored and he shot, when I think he should have passed. The next one, he's probably got in his head 'he should have passed that', so the next one he should have shot, but he's passed it. You never know what's going through players' minds. When they make a

mistake, invariably they know. So it's about avoiding another mistake off the back of it. The two quick goals were really painful for us.

Then the pitch becomes even bigger. That was a tough game for them, and they haven't had it easy today.

They have some good players, and we've gone and pressed them; we haven't sat in, we haven't gone to a back five or played 5-4-1, or

anything like that. We've gone after them all game, so I think that was good. It's what we want to do.”

George Miller started the match up front, with Cheltenham’s new striker Kirsten Otchere coming off the bench in the second half.

Cotterill was pleased with both his new forward signings, and the appearance of substitute goalkeeper Wyll Stanway.

Cotterill said: “We were going to try to give everybody a little bit of a run if we could. Sometimes you are jigging it around.

Sometimes people might ask why you don't make a sub earlier, but you can end up messing up any momentum you may have in the game. I wasn't too worried about messing up momentum today because at any God-given time, they could have broken.

Their goals were from fast breaks or interceptions, so that turnover of the ball when you are playing these guys, that can be very painful. The hardest thing is when someone can sprint more than you.

“I think Wyll is going to be a really good goalkeeper, and I think he looks like he's not been coached perhaps for a longer period of time. I think he has all the attributes. The save he made down to his left, great strong arm, great save. He doesn't mind having the ball at the back there. He is quite comfortable to put his foot on it. When he settles in, he's going to be a real asset to the club.”

Wales co-captains Morgan and Lake make Gloucester Rugby move GLOUCESTER Rugby have made a major statement of intent ahead of the new season by bringing two of Wales' leading forwards to Kingsholm.

Wales captain Jac Morgan and fellow international Dewi Lake are among the headline additions to George Skivington's squad for the 2026/27 campaign, with the pair arriving together from the Ospreys.

The move reunites two players who have already shared the responsibility of leading their country, having

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk

co-captained Wales during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. For Gloucester, their arrival represents more than simply adding international quality to the playing squad. Both players bring leadership experience at the highest level at a time when the Cherry and Whites are looking to build greater consistency and competitiveness.

Morgan, a powerful and highly mobile back-row forward, has established himself as one of Wales' most influential players since making his international

debut.

The 25-year-old also toured with the British & Irish Lions in 2025, scoring in the second Test against Australia.

His career has been interrupted by injury, but when fit Morgan offers Gloucester a dynamic presence in the back row and another player capable of setting standards around the field.

Lake provides a similarly significant addition at hooker.

The 26-year-old has spent his entire senior club career with the Ospreys and has

become an established member of the Wales squad.

His combination of physicality, work at the breakdown and ability to contribute around the park makes him an important addition to Gloucester's pack.

The pair are part of a wider recruitment drive which has seen Gloucester strengthen their forward options considerably.

South African World Cup winner Jean Kleyn is joining from Munster, while Joe Joyce arrives from Connacht.

Samoan international Marco

Fepulea'i and Coventry tighthead Eliot Salt have also been brought in, adding further depth and experience.

Former Gloucester scrumhalf Dan Robson is returning to the club from Pau, while Phil Cokanasiga provides another option in the backline.

The recruitment suggests Gloucester are looking to add greater physicality and experience to a squad that has at times struggled for consistency.

Morgan and Lake, however, could prove

particularly important because of what they can bring beyond their individual positions.

Having both captained Wales, they understand the pressures of international rugby and both have experience of playing alongside and against some of the world's best players.

For a Gloucester side hoping to take another step forward, having two proven international leaders arriving together could prove just as valuable as the performances they produce on the pitch.

31

Cheltenham Post Sport

The

Friday 14th August 2026

FREE

Charlton too much for Robins CHELTENHAM Town lost their first competitive game of the 2026/27 season, a 1-3 home defeat to Championship side Charlton Athletic.

Athletic were an impressive outfit. They strolled into a 0-3 half-time lead with no threat on their own goal.

Two of the three goals were unstoppable for Joe Day in the Cheltenham net, finishes of real quality.

The Robins could have worked harder in defending both situations, but for a first run-out, they enjoyed good spells of possession and came back with a goal through George Miller in the second half.

The result does mean that Cheltenham’s Carabao Cup run comes to an end, but the performance wasn’t too discouraging in terms of minutes on the board, and lots of new players figuring

INSIDE

Cricket: Cheltenham Festival returns

SEE PAGE 30

By George Didcote

INSIDE

Chief Football Writer each other out as they start to play together.

Manager Steve Cotterill was pleased with his side’s performance, critical of mistakes, but overall took the positives from the game.

He said: “It's funny really because we played some better football in some moments in the first half than we did in the second and probably just globally we had more determination about us in the second half.

We had a game of football with them for 20-odd minutes, and it was a good game as well. We were the better team. Then all of a sudden they get a goal, and we don't want that to become a habit, but it affected us again, from a mistake.”

Continued on p31

Football: Bishops Cleeve battle to win at Shaftesbury

SEE PAGE 29

Kings Amateur Boxing Club Cheltenham’s Number One Club

www.kingsabc.com

All ages, regular timetable, also 1-2-1s

Call 07857 484227

32

www.cheltenhampost.co.uk