GloucesterPost
Gloucester Day Returns to celebrate city’s history
GLOUCESTER Day is set to return on Saturday, September 6, with a day of parades, stalls, music and entertainment, all celebrating the city’s rich and interesting history.
The popular annual event commemorates the lifting of the Siege of Gloucester in 1643 and aims to boost pride in the city, encouraging visitors and residents to find out more about its colourful past.
Gloucester Day is organised by Gloucester town crier Alan Myatt and supported by Gloucester City Council, and Gloucester Civic Trust.
This year’s celebration will begin at 9.45am at Gloucester Cross, where local organisations, community groups and charities will all be hosting stalls.
The first parade, led by the Mock Mayor of Barton, starts at 11am and will process from Constitution Walk, through Queens Walk to Gloucester Cross, then to Westgate before heading to Northgate Street and on to Southgate Street.
There will be the traditional comic meeting between the Mock Mayor of Barton who this year
will be Viva O’Flynn, secretary of the Gloucester Filipino Association and the Mayor of Gloucester, Councillor Ashley Bowkett.
A different person is chosen to play the mock mayor each year and its origins date back to King Charles II. The role is awarded to those who have done good work
1643 civil war demonstration of musketry at the Folk of Gloucester where the audience can expect to hear some big bangs. The Folk bar will also be open for refreshments.
Alan Myatt, Gloucester town crier, said: “Gloucester Day is an organic catalyst and celebration of everything that is good and positive in this great city of ours.”
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, Leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “Gloucester Day helps make our city the unique and special place it is. Originally Gloucester Day celebrated the lifting of the siege in 1643, but it lapsed over the decades. Thanks to Alan Myatt and his volunteers, Gloucester Day was reborn. Do come to Gloucester and bring the family. The kids will enjoy it especially the parades.”
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in the community.
The parade will then depart at midday for a Thanksgiving Day service at St Mary de Crypt. At 2pm it will again make its way through the city led by the Mayor of Gloucester along with the Sheriff of Gloucester, Councillor Linda Castle, in full civic regalia. At 4pm there will be a costumed
Gloucester Day takes place as part of Gloucester History Festival, which runs until 21 September and promises a packed programme of historical events and talks from historians and celebrities. More information at the Gloucester History Festival website www.gloucesterhistoryfestival.co. uk/
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AROUND THE COUNTY news from Gloucestershire
Sinkhole shuts down road in Cheltenham Town centre
URGENT work is underway to fix a “very large” sinkhole in Cheltenham town centre.
Sherborne Place has been closed since Monday, August 11 after a two-metre-wide cavity was discovered in the middle of the road, sparking safety concerns.
Public car park and residential access have remained largely unaffected by the closure, but one local business has been significantly impacted: the family-run George Bence Group.
Paul Bence, managing director at the builders’ merchant, said at the end of last week that the three-metre-deep hole has had a “detrimental” impact on his business and has “cut operations to the core”.
Many of Bence’s customers rely on the route to access a yard where they collect 26tonne loads of building supplies. Some have been driving away due to the road closure signs. Others are making use of a temporary alternative gate.
Mr Bence said the hole’s position in the centre of the oneway road rules out damage from heavy goods vehicles as a cause, suggesting instead that a burst pipe could be the root cause of the problem.
You can pick up your copy of the Gloucester Post in many shops and leisure places throughout the town. We also have stands at your local supermarkets listed below;
ASDA SUPERSTORE, Bruton Way
WM MORRISON, Metz Way, Triangle Way
TESCO SUPERSTORE, St Oswolds Way
CO-OP SUPERMARKET, 129 Cheltenham Road
ASDA SUPERMARKET, Naas Lane Link Road
TESCO SUPERSTORE, Cheltenham Road East
TESCO SUPERSTORE, Gloucester Business Park
SAINSBURYS STORE, Barnett Way
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.
According to the British Geological Survey, water leaks are a common trigger of sinkholes. Cheltenham is also susceptible to sinkholes due to its loose, sandy soil. This can wash away making the ground
Appeal for witnesses after woman was assaulted on the M5
GLOUCESTERSHIRE Police are appealing for witnesses to an assault which took place on the M5 earlier this month.
A member of the public called police at around 3.40am on Tuesday 5 August to raise concerns about a woman who was seen walking along the hard shoulder of the southbound carriageway near to junction 8 for Strensham Services.
Officers located the woman and she stated that a man had punched and dragged her into the motorway before smashing off the wing mirrors of her car which was parked on the hard shoulder.
The woman sustained minor injuries and was understandably shaken by what happened.
This had taken place between
junctions 8 and 9 at around 3am.
A man in his 50s and from Evesham was arrested on suspicion of common assault and later released on bail in connection with the incident however investigating officers would like anyone who saw what happened to make contact.
In particular officers would like to speak to the driver of a white van who turned up at the scene and took the woman home before coming back and collecting her car. Information can be provided to police online by completing the following form and quoting incident 43 of 5 August: www.gloucestershire.police.uk/t ua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-usabout-existing-case-report/
underneath tarmac more likely to collapse.
Councillor Lisa Spivey, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “We appreciate the patience of the local community while we prepare to carry out an urgent repair.”
Mr Bence added: “We're still very much open and we hope
that the council and highways can make this more of a priority to get it sorted because it's been days now and it's not ideal to say the least.”
Elsewhere in the county, at Rushmire Hill, a five-metrewide sinkhole appeared in June. The road was closed for 17 days while repairs were completed.
Man dies following tractor collision near Tewkesbury
A MAN has died following an incident in Fiddington, near Tewkesbury on Saturday 9 August.
It is believed that a man who had been driving a tractor through fields collided with hedges and some stationary vehicles at around 11.25pm.
A passenger on the tractor, a man aged in his 50s, sustained serious injuries in the collision and members of the public provided first aid at the scene, which was near Monks Lane. Police officers attended and provided first aid prior to the arrival of paramedics. Despite everyone’s efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin and the coroner are aware.
A man aged in his 20s, who is believed to have been driving the tractor, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through alcohol.
The Severn Vale Vintage Club annual show had taken place at the location the day before. Due to the incident, the organiser had to close the event on the Sunday. Anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken to police can provide information online by completing the following form and quoting incident 591 of 9 August: www.gloucestershire.police.u k/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-usabout-existing-case-report/
Gloucester Goes Retro set for seaside success
ROLL up your trousers and pop a knotted hanky on your head — this year’s Gloucester Goes Retro is heading to the seaside!
Expect giant seagulls, sand sculpting, and striped deckchairs as the UK’s premier vintage festival returns with a seaside theme.
Taking place on Saturday, August 23, the event transforms Gloucester city centre into a vibrant celebration of days gone by.
Now in its 10th year, the festival that brings thousands to the city will see visitors invited to Kings Square where they can pull up a deck chair to enjoy the free entertainment.
There’ll be street performers dressed as giant seagulls, freewheeling
pedalos and classic seaside amusements like face-inthe-hole photo boards.
Organised and funded by Gloucester City Council in partnership with the Gloucester Business Improvement District, the festival is a standout event on the city’s annual calendar.
Across Gloucester’s Gate Streets, hundreds of vintage vehicles will be on display — from early 1900s models to cars from the 2000s. Or visitors can head to Gloucester Docks for more fantastic cars, tasty food and live music on the Mariners Square Stage. And at the Military Village, next to the Soldiers of Gloucestershire Museum, this year there'll be a World War II Buick Hellcat tank — a must-see
for history and military enthusiasts.
Councillor Caroline Courtney, Cabinet member for Culture and Leisure at Gloucester City Council, said: “Gloucester Goes Retro is where residents and visitors come together to celebrate the city. It’s a fantastic atmosphere and really shows what a unique and vibrant place we are. Everyone is here to enjoy themselves and it’s also a great chance to support local businesses and enjoy all that Gloucester has to offer.”
The event starts at 10am and is free to attend.
More information at www.gloucestergoesretro.u k and follow the Facebook Page is available at www.facebook.com/glouce stergoesretro.
In the dock!
The following cases have all been heard recently at Cheltenham Magistrates Court:
Tony William Hurst, 23, of Sutton Road, Soudley, Cinderford, was made subject to a warrant for arrest without bail for failing to comply with the requirements of a community order made by Cheltenham Magistrates on 6th May 2025, by failing to attend unpaid work appointments in May, June and July of this year.
Martin McAlary, 41, of Whittington Road, Cheltenham, was made subject to a warrant for arrest without bail for failing to comply with the requirements of a community order made by Cheltenham Magistrates on 20th January 2025, by failing to attend unpaid work appointments in March and May of this year.
James Robert Andrew Hay, 28, of Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, was made subject to a warrant for arrest without bail for failing to comply with the requirements of a community order made by Cheltenham Magistrates on 25th February 2025, by failing to attend two unpaid work appointments in June of this year.
Michael Mulenga, 53, of Meadoway, Bishop’s Cleeve, Cheltenham, admitted failing to comply with the requirements of a community order made by Cheltenham Magistrates Court on 6th May 2025, by failing to attend three unpaid work appointments in June and July of this year, without providing an acceptable reason or excuse withing the specified time period. The court ordered that he must comply with
the original order to carry out 30 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months, and an additional 30 hours was added to the order.
An application to extend a closure order for nuisance or disorder in respect of premises at Evenlode Avenue, Whaddon, Cheltenham, made on 7th May 2025 by Cheltenham Magistrates Court, was extended for a further period of 3 months from 1st August 2025.
Mohammed Abdul Hadi, 37, of Howard Road, Tewkesbury, denied a charge of driving without due care and attention in a Toyota Auris on the A38 at Cambridge on 19th October 2023. The case was adjourned for trial until 21st November 2025 for an Arabic interpreter to attend.
Keith John Saunders, 44, of Princess Elizabeth Way, Hesters Way, Cheltenham, was served with a domestic violence protection order on 9th August 2025.
Santino Caltabiano, 19, of Belle Vue Road, Cinderford, was convicted of driving a Ford Fiesta on the A38 Bridgwater Road, Cross, Sedgemoor on 14th August 2024 at a speed in excess of 40mph. An application to re-open the case was adjourned until 4th September 2025 for the defendant to attend in person.
Laura Diggles, 42, of Cleeve View Road, Oakley, Cheltenham, was convicted of driving a Skoda Octavia on the A40 Over Farm Road at Gloucester on 6th October 2024 at a speed in
excess of the 50mph speed limit. She was fined £158, ordered to pay costs of £90 and a Victim Services Surcharge of £63.
Christopher Keenan, 70, of Welch Road, Springbank, Cheltenham, had the prohibition terms of a sexual harm prevention order, initially issued by magistrates on 1st May 2025, varied. He is prohibited from owning or using more than two Personal Computer, including Laptop, Desktop, Notebook, Smart TV or Tablet or any other variation of Internet enabled device or subsequent successor. (This does not include any standalone Games Console designed with the primary function of playing video games or any Smart Utility device.) The rest of the order remains as originally issued, and will stay in place until 1st May 2030.
Mohammod Abdul Sattar, 61, and Sajeda Tophadar, 52, both of Devon Avenue, Cheltenham, were charged with making false representations to the Department of Work and Pensions, while claiming for benefits or Universal Credit, that they only had one bank account when in fact they had 4 additional bank accounts with a total balance that exceeded the prescribed maximum for entitlement to Universal Credit. They were remanded on unconditional bail until 25th September 2025 for a case management hearing at the request of the prosecution for review following representations by the defence solicitor.
Early success for Safer Street Summer initiative
SUSPECTED shoplifters are among those who have been arrested by officers from Gloucestershire Constabulary during the first month of the national Safer Streets Summer Initiative. The initiative, which runs from 30 June to the end of September, is focused on making town and city centres safer by tackling issues such as shoplifting, street crime and anti-social behaviour.
As part of efforts to reduce offending, officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Teams have been taking part in activity throughout the month. Results to date include: 29 arrests including for offences such as robbery, theft, vandalism and assaults; 27 people were given antisocial behaviour related outof-court disposals; Seven people were given retail crime related out-of- court disposals; 10 illegal e-bikes or e-scooters have been seized; One person was given a street crime related out-of- court disposal.
Out of court disposals are when matters are not taken to court and can include outcomes such as cautions, conditional cautions, penalty notices and community resolutions.
Seven e-bikes were seized by the Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team on 1 July following an operation targeting the illegal use of e-bikes. One of the bikes was able to reach speeds in excess of 25 mph. The team have also been educating riders and making them aware of legislation.
A man was arrested after officers were informed of a burglary at Five Valleys Shopping Centre on 3 July where £6,000 worth of phones had been stolen. A report was also received that a man was
breaching his bail and enquiries by officers found the man at his home address along with 10 phones and an iPad. The 37year-old was subsequently arrested and later released on bail with conditions not to enter the shopping centre.
Officers from the Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team took part in a plain clothed patrol on 2 July during which time a man was seen to steal from a shop. He was located in possession of items suspected to have been stolen from the shop so was arrested.
A 47-year-old of no fixed abode was charged with theft from a shop and remanded to appear at court. He pleaded guilty at Cheltenham Magistrates' Court the following day and was ordered to pay compensation.
Following a report of two men shoplifting from the Tesco store in Cinderford on 3 July, a 29-year-old from the town was arrested on suspicion of theft and resisting arrest, while a 25-year-old from Cinderford was arrested on suspicion of theft, assaulting an emergency worker and escape from lawful custody. They were both given community resolution orders.
On 12 July the Special Constabulary and Gloucester Neighbourhood Policing Team seized an Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle, also known as an e-bike, and four e-scooters which were being ridden illegally. It was found that the e-bike could reach speeds of 30mph and the e-scooters were not insured for use on the roads.
A report was made on 4 July that a man appeared to be drunk and was behaving threateningly to people on Union Street in Stroud. A 38year-old man of no fixed address was subsequently charged with being drunk and
disorderly and assaulting an emergency worker. He was due to appear before Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on 31 July.
Several Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) have been implemented in Cheltenham and Gloucester after patrols identified street drinking.
The orders prohibit anyone from having open containers of alcohol in a public place. Anyone who is caught will be asked to dispose of it or risk being issued a Fixed Penalty Notice. Sealed alcohol containers can also be seized under the PSPO if it is believed that the owner is likely to commit anti-social behaviour.
Combined efforts from teams across the county resulted in 977 hours being spent patrolling the streets of Gloucestershire.
Chief Inspector Marcus Forbes-George said: “The Safer Street Summer Initiative is an ideal opportunity for us to make a real difference in all our communities across the county.
“These types of crime, such as shoplifting and anti-social behaviour, typically increase during the summer months and can have a serious impact on people's lives.
“While officers are carrying out the same activities as they do day in, day out 365 days a year, this initiative allows us to focus on these areas over our peak demand period.
“I am pleased that so much good work has taken place during this first month and hope this continues over the coming months.
“I would like to thank every officer, PCSO and member of staff who has so far played a part in our efforts to make the streets of Gloucestershire as safe as possible this summer.”
Gloucestershire County council Children’s Services praised by Ofsted
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
County Council’s Children’s Services have been judged as Good with Outstanding elements in its most recent inspection. During the inspection, which took place from June 9 to 20 this year, the inspection team found the council’s Children’s Services to be Good in their overall effectiveness, with judgements of Outstanding in two of four categories, and good in the remaining two categories.
Services showed significant improvement since the last full inspection when they were judged to require improvement in 2022.
Ofsted found that ‘children in care experience exceptional care and support’ and that those who need help
and protection ‘benefit from high-quality, effective early help services’. The experiences and progress of children in care
was judged to be Outstanding by inspectors. They found that ‘children enter care at the right time and live in stable homes
where they are well supported, and their needs are met’.
Leaders were also singled out for praise, where their
impact on social work practice with children and families was found to be Outstanding. Ofsted said that leaders ‘have been relentless in their ambition to improve children’s lives… systematically creating the conditions for success.’,
adding that, ‘as a result, social work practice is now strong in all areas and the experiences and progress of vulnerable children are much improved’.
Cllr Ben Evans, Cabinet Member for Children's Safeguarding and Care at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “I am delighted that our Children’s Services have been judged Good by Ofsted and that it is a marked improvement since the 2022 inspection.
“The systems that have been put in place will allow us to
continue to improve and deliver consistently positive outcomes for all children and young people in Gloucestershire.”
Ann James, Director of Children’s Services at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “This has been a team effort, with dedicated practitioners, managers, partners and elected members all pulling together for our most vulnerable children and families. I am proud that inspectors could see the impact of the improvements we have made.
“I would like to pay tribute to the staff within the service who have worked tirelessly to help us achieve this outcome.
“We are committed to continuing to improve our Children’s Services.”
Summer sun and safer streets
THERE is a well-known saying that one swallow doesn’t make a summer.
Roughly translated, it means you should never jump the gun and make a hasty conclusion based on limited evidence.
Even so, it’s hard not to be encouraged by the early results of the seasonal operation currently targeting so-called street crime.
It may not be the snappiest title a police operation was ever given, but so far, the ‘Safer Streets Summer Initiative’ in Gloucestershire has led to 29 arrests with a further 27 people given antisocial behaviour-related out-of-court disposals and a number of illegal e-bikes and scooters seized. Out-of-court disposals are when matters result in outcomes such as cautions, conditional cautions, penalty notices and community resolutions.
The operation is a nationwide initiative, which was launched locally in Gloucester on 30th June and will continue until the end of September. It is the kind of visible policing designed to
By Chris Nelson Police & Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire
make our town and city centres safer by tackling things like shoplifting, street crime and other forms of anti-social behaviour and is exactly what the citizens of Gloucestershire expect of their police force. I know that because it’s what you tell me.
So it was particularly pleasing that suspected shoplifters were among those arrested during the first weeks of this operation and that the Constabulary’s neighbourhood teams seized a number of illegal e-bikes and scooters, which have become such a hazard on our roads and pavements.
Seven e-bikes were seized in Cheltenham; A man was arrested following a burglary at Five Valleys Shopping Centre in Stroud in connection with the theft of £6,000-worth of phones; two suspected shoplifters were arrested in
Cinderford; another man was arrested in Stroud charged with being drunk and disorderly and assaulting an emergency worker; and a number of Public Space Protection Orders were imposed in Cheltenham and Gloucester to limit street drinking, so it’s happening right across the county. And that was just the start.
One of my priorities over the next four years is for people in Gloucestershire to feel safe and to have trust and confidence in their Constabulary. Successful, high-visibility operations like The Safer Street Summer Initiative are an ideal opportunity for us to make a real difference in all our communities across the county, because they are addressing crimes I know the public are most concerned about.
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Our dedicated team will work with you and your loved one to deliver a care and lifestyle plan entirely tailored to their unique needs and preferences and our busy activities schedule is always packed with meaningful activities that support them to live life to the full.
Recently, residents had fun moving and tapping their feet to the beat of their favourite music at their weekly ‘Wake and Shake’ session. They
have also enjoyed testing their knowledge and having fun with their fellow residents at the ever popular quiz club!
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Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service praised
THE final cause for concern at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) has been lifted by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) following its latest revisit.
HMICFRS visited the service between 9 and 10 July 2025 to review progress against its ambitious action plan. It followed a revisit earlier this year when two out of three causes for concern were removed after significant progress had been made in the areas of values and culture, and protection.
And now the third cause for concern in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) has also been lifted, meaning all recommendations have now been completed.
A revisit letter from HMICFRS said the service had worked at pace to address
outstanding recommendations and it had made good progress to improve the way it promotes EDI.
EDI objectives were now included in the staff appraisal process, helping to raise staff awareness of them. Positive action training is shared with watch managers to support the work to recruit a more diverse workforce, and the service has introduced ‘the big conversation’. These face-toface conversations encourage
staff to have open and honest conversations on a specific topic each month and EDI objectives were the first topic discussed.
The letter said that the service had carried out further work to educate and communicate with staff on the importance of EDI, evidence was found that staff have a better understanding of the service’s EDI objectives, and staff expressed confidence in the importance of recruiting a diverse workforce.
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The letter confirmed that the remaining cause for concern had been closed and GFRS would return to HMICFRS’s default phase of monitoring with immediate effect.
Mark Preece, Chief Fire Officer for GFRS, said: “This marks a significant milestone for the service and I would like to thank HMICFRS for recognising the progress we have made. The lifting of the final cause for concern is the result of hard work and a real commitment to change across our organisation.
“We’ve placed equality, diversity and inclusion firmly at the centre of everything we do and our team has worked incredibly hard to respond to these challenges. Creating an inclusive culture is an ongoing journey and we will continue pushing forward to ensure our service is one where everyone can thrive.”
Patch to open flagship workspace
PATCH, the fast-growing company which intends to ‘reimagine how we work and connect’ is to open a new 17,000 sq ft flagship space at The Forum development in Gloucester.
Set to open this winter, Patch Gloucester will be the firm’s sixth and largest site, and its first to be hosted in a new build commercial development.
It will offer office and event space for both one-off events and short or long-term rent to individuals and teams, giving users the chance to meet other like-minded people with the aim of boosting Gloucester’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
It will be able to host over 100 businesses and 500 members and offer private offices, coworking studios, dedicated desks, and members’ lounges. There will also be publicly bookable meeting rooms and production studios.
Boasting more than 1000 members across the country and hosting everyone from large tech companies to selfemployed freelancers, its aim is to offer beautifully designed spaces where people can be part of a vibrant community.
And as a certified B-Corp, a mark of social and environment
sustainability, the company is also committed to supporting the local community through hosting events, initiatives, and building strong partnerships.
Patch is the second tenant announced for The Forum, a £107m mixed-used development being brought forward by Gloucester City Council in partnership with developers Reef + Partners. It is set to offer 135,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, a boutique hotel, a 393-space car park with 41 electric vehicle charging points, residential apartments and retail space. Cllr Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Patch to Gloucester. Along with current tenants Fasthosts they share our vision for the city and see its massive potential to grow and attract talent.”
Centrally located by Kings Square and next to the new University of Gloucestershire city campus, The Forum is a short walk from Gloucester bus and train stations with excellent transport links. To find out more or register interest, visit www.patch.work/locations/glo ucester.
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Ruby Avenue, Bishop's Cleeve, Cheltenham, GL52 7ZN
Slimming group responds to the rise in weight-loss drug solutions
Meet the Local Slimming World team!
Monday 9:30am & 11am
St Nicolas Church
Wednesday 9:30am & 11.00am
5pm & 7pm
St Mark’s & Hester’s Way Community Centre CAROLINE 07446 157092
Tuesday 5:30pm & 7:30pm
Springbank Community Café
Wednesday 9.30am & 6.00pm Holy Apostles Hall
Saturday 7:30am & 9.00am
The Rock, Tewkesbury Rd CLAIRE 07909 139996
Thursday 7:00pm Brockworth Primary Academy
Friday 7:30am & 9am
Hucclecote Community Centre EMMA 07525 946889
Tuesday 5:15 & 6:45pm
St Johns Church, Churchdown
Thursday 9.30am & 11am
4.00pm, 5.30pm & 7.00pm Irish Club, Horton Rd SHERRYL 07581 221006
Wednesday 6:30pm
Thursday 9am & 10:30am
Bishops Cleeve, Methodist Hall
Thursday 5:30pm
Abbey Fields Community Centre, Winchcombe CATH 079886 30336
Monday 5.30pm
St Margaret’s Hall
Wednesday 5:30 & 7.00pm
St Philip & St James Church, Up Hatherley
Thursday 6.00pm
Parkland’s Community Centre
Friday 8.00am & 9:30am Warden Hill
United Reformed Church DEBBIE 07553 439404
Tuesday 7:30am, 9am & 10:30am
Warden Hill
United Reformed Church NATALIE 07786 068370
Tuesday 5.30pm & 7.00pm
Coopers Edge Community Centre Typhoon Way
Wednesday 9:30 & 11am
St Johns Church, Churchdown SHARON 07979 232122
NEW GROUPS COMING SOON
W/C 22ND SEPT
*NEW CONSULTANT*
TUESDAY 7.00pm
NAUNTON PARK PRIMARY SCHOOL
LECKHAMPTON EMMA 07300 425191
*NEW CONSTANT* SATURDAY 8.00am THE WHEATSHEAF OLD BATH RD LECKHAMPTON NEIL 07597 403082
Weight-loss drugs can’t replace the power of group support for lasting results, says local expert
SLIMMING World Consultants from Gloucester say slimming clubs are needed more than ever despite the growing popularity of weight-loss medication.
While the arrival of drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro have undoubtedly changed the weight management landscape, the Consultants say the drugs will never replace weight-loss methods based on lifestyle changes, like Slimming World.
Bonny and Michelle, Team Developers for the Cheltenham and Gloucester Consultants are spreading the word about groups, saying: “While, of course, we know and our members are living proof that lasting weight loss can be achieved without drugs, we also understand that when you’re desperate to lose weight, it can be tempting to try something new that promises instant results. The truth is though there’s no magic bullet – losing weight and maintaining that weight loss requires change. Weight loss drugs need to go hand-inhand with making changes to your diet, activity and mindset. They’re not a replacement for those changes.”
A recent University of Oxford study found exactly this. It showed that people who stop taking weight loss drugs typically regained the weight they lost within a year, with full weight regain expected in under two years, if they don’t maintain a healthy lifestyle afterwards.
Bonny says Slimming World’s approach is focused on helping its members to make lasting changes. She says: “Our healthy eating plan encourages members to eat nutritious, everyday food so they lose weight without deprivation, and we have an activity programme that helps members increase how much and how often they move, at their personal pace. In our groups, members get
behaviour change support which helps them to understand themselves more deeply as a slimmer and change the way they think about food, activity and their weight. With over 55 years’ expertise in helping people lose weight and transform their lives, we believe Slimming World offers the very best package there is when it comes to helping people to adopt healthy habits for life. That’s why we’re committed to offering support to everyone, including providing wraparound care for members who are taking weight-loss drugs alongside attending Slimming World.”
Michelle says: “Many people join our groups after trying to lose weight beforehand, often alone and unsuccessfully. They understand they need support because it isn’t easy –and it’s even harder on your own. Whether you’re using weight-loss medication or have had surgery, lasting change needs real support. Our members form strong friendships in group, and there’s nothing quite like the motivation and accountability that comes from losing weight with others who understand the challenges. Being part of a group helps you to stay on track and committed until the changes you’re making become everyday habits.”
Despite more weight-loss drugs now being available, a poll of 2,000 adults revealed 69 per cent of adults would still be unlikely to take them.
Of those, 25 per cent say they don’t want to change the way they eat, drink and socialise, 21 per cent worried they wouldn’t be getting the nutrition they need for good health and 20 per cent say they love their food too much.
The consultants all say:
“We often hear from new members how amazed they are that they can lose weight without feeling like they’re missing out. In fact, in a recent survey of our members conducted by OnePoll, 85 per cent told us they were
surprised they could lose weight while still eating foods they loved.”
The survey of members of Slimming World’s 13,000 community weight loss groups and online programme found that 89 per cent love losing weight while getting all the nutrients they need. Over three quarters (77 per cent) of members questioned now make healthy, nutritious, filling meals that the whole family enjoys and 76 per cent feel proud that they’re passing on healthy habits to their families. More than half (56 per cent) report being surprised at how quickly they’ve lost weight since joining Slimming World. Bonny and Michelle have lost 13stones between them. They say: “We are delighted with our weight-loss, it’s something we never dreamed we would be able to achieve when first starting. While we wouldn’t ever judge someone for going down the route of weight loss injections, we are personally glad we didn’t choose that option because we feel confident that we have learned how to make changes we can keep up forever.
“As Consultants we have all changed the way we think about food and the expertise shared at all of our groups across our area, have helped our members to see where and why their previous attempts at losing weight didn’t work. Getting to know their triggers, members can spot when something might have the potential to send them off track and we support them to put a plan in place to protect their weight loss.”
If you are a past or present Slimming World member and would like to know more about how you can support people in your local community please get in touch to come along to one of our informal information events just call Michelle07816 142261 or Bonnie 07544 731250
Why you should consider putting your house in a Trust
IF you own a home, placing it in a trust can be a smart way to protect your property and ensure your family is taken care of after you pass away. Here are the key reasons to consider this option:
Protect Your Assets
A trust can safeguard your home from creditors, making it a wise choice for business owners or individuals in highrisk professions.
Avoid Care Fees
In the UK, long-term care can be financially devastating. If you require care assistance, your assets, including your home, are assessed to determine how much you must contribute to care costs. This can lead to significant financial strain, diminishing your estate and leaving less for your loved ones to inherit. By placing your house in a trust, it may be classified as a non-countable asset, effectively shielding it from being used to cover care expenses. This proactive step
not only protects your home but also ensures that your family retains a larger share of your hard-earned wealth.
Skip Probate
With a trust, your loved ones can inherit your home quickly, bypassing the lengthy probate process. This saves both time and costs.
Control Distribution
You can dictate how and when your assets are distributed, ensuring your wishes are honoured, especially for younger beneficiaries who may not yet be ready to manage an inheritance.
Protect Inheritances
A trust can shield your beneficiaries from losing their inheritance to creditors or in the event of divorce proceedings.
Potential Tax Benefits
Depending on the trust structure, your property may be exempt from inheritance tax, allowing your heirs to retain more of your intended legacy.
Manage Affairs If You Become Ill
If you become unable to manage your affairs, a trustee can step in, ensuring that your property is cared for without the need for court intervention.
Act Now!
Explore how placing your house in a trust can benefit you and your family. Contact us today for a free review of your options and secure your peace of mind.
For more information and advice call the Unity Legal on 0333 335 5875
Gardening jobs for September
SEPTEMBER is just around the corner, where the evenings are starting to get darker and cooler, so what can we look forward to doing in the garden this month?
We need to plan and order our bulbs ready for bulb planting season from early October. What type of display do you want to achieve? Look at combination planting with tulip, crocus, daffodils , iris, hyacinths and forget-menots. Think about height, spread layering, and maybe make a sketch to help visualise your plan.
Perennials will need lifting and dividing, this will promote and maintain a healthy plant while giving you more plants to use. It’s easy to do, just lift out with a garden fork, shake off the soil and then gently divide, replant, sit back and enjoy.
September is a good time to plant new shrubs and small trees, the soil still holds some warmth from summer which allows plant roots to establish ready for winter.
Keep on top of watering and deadheading, there’s lots of waste for the compost heap this month. Tidy your borders and keep an eye on your tall plants, adding support where necessary.
Plan, then plant your winter pots and containers with winter bedding and spring
By Mark Hopkins
bulbs, and move any tender plants into cover. Look to harvest apples and pears as they ripen, blackberries and raspberries too.
Your lawns will need some attention to maintain their health through winter. Mow your lawn, rake up any suspicious looking weeds and moss then mow again at right angles to the last mow to remove your raked up waste. After this, spike and feed with a winter lawn feed, this is important as a spring feed can harm winter lawns. You may feel you want to top dress with soil, if this is the case keep the layers thin so as not to bury the grass.
September is also possibly your last chance to trim hedges, bay trees and bamboo. Your evergreen hedges will look neat and tidy for the winter month. Other types can be pruned back but please be sure to check for nesting birds before cutting. Your bay trees will need pruning to maintain their shape by removing dead, diseased, or damaged wood, then cut back any out-
facing buds to encourage outward growth. Bamboo will need very little maintenance if in the ground, thin out the dense areas of growth and removing any dead canes.
Pond and water features will need covering with netting to stop autumn leaves falling in but first be sure to remove dead and dying foliage and rescue young water plants which can be removed into trays of wet
muddy soil then placed in a frost-free area until next year. When you clear away waste plants, be sure to leave them overnight by the side of the pond to allow any wildlife to escape back home before composting. If possible it’s a good idea to remove and clean any pumps for water features or fountains.
Finally think about supporting any climbers and young trees to prevent root damage through rocking
back and forth, a single stake on a slight angle will let gentle movement with each breeze and potentially strengthen the stems and trunk.
Tulips
With that in mind let’s have a look at five types of tulip for different areas of your spring garden.
Rembrandt Bulbs
Brash strong strokes of colour giving texture and depth to a timeless tulip collection, ideal in borders giving good height with a little drama.
Species Bulbs
These little beauties will fill your early borders, small containers and rockeries with dainty exquisite blooms that will delight your neighbours for years, as left alone they will return year after year.
Double Late Bulbs
This multi-layered petal plant offers a lush and round appearance allowing them to stand out in any garden. They bloom later than other species extending your spring displays and
offering bright strong colours. They are the loud show-offs that are big and proud.
Fluted Bulbs
These elegant stunners will bring sculpted grace to your displays adding height and will offer a contrast to the typical tulip shape. They are perfect for mixing in among a more traditional display.
Fringed or Parrot Bulbs
The feathered edge look of this stunning variety will add texture and style to your spring collections. They play beautifully with the light adding a touch of flair to your garden.
One flower with so many interpretations, tulips symbolise renewal, offering a happy nod that summer is
on its way with thoughts of enthusiasm for the coming year. They come in many different colours, shapes and sizes and are grown from bulbs ideally set in the soil in late October through December. Plant the bulbs pointy end up and three times the size of the bulb deep; mix in a little grit if heavy soil, water well when planted then sit back and let
nature do its thing.
Traditionally thought to be Dutch the tulip was originally cultivated in the Ottoman Empire know today as Turkey and introduced to Europe in the late 16th century. There are approximately 120 different species of tulip split into 15 main groups; the five we have discussed plus others such as Viridiflora, Darwin,
Triumph and Fosteriana, then there are early and late bloomers with tall and short stems they can be planted in groups or individually with other perennials or as a single display. Whatever varieties you choose and however you display them the tulip will add structure, grace and vibrant colour that will never disappoint you.
Species Bulbs
Fringed or parrot bulbs
Fluted Bulbs
Rembrandt Bulbs
Double Late Bulbs
Long-term shelter dogs still waiting for a home
Long-term shelter dogs still waiting for a home
AT Cheltenham Animal Shelter, we work tirelessly to find loving homes for each animal that comes through our doors.
But sadly, some dogs stay with us far longer than expected, often through no fault of their own. Today, we’d like to introduce (or reintroduce) you to three special dogs who have been in our care far too long and are still hoping for their forever homes.
Ozzy may look familiar, as this happy-go-lucky boy has featured in the paper before. Yet, despite our best efforts, he’s still waiting patiently for the right family to come along.
This handsome three-yearold Lurcher arrived at the Shelter back in June 2023. Full of energy and joy, he’s a clever and affectionate dog who thrives on human connection and outdoor adventures. Whether it's a long walk or a good game of fetch, Ozzy is always ready to join in the fun. Sadly, after more than two years with us, Ozzy hasn’t received much interest.
Only a couple of requests have come through which is heartbreaking, as we know just how special he is. His slightly exuberant greetings are simply a sign of how excited he is to connect with people. Once he settles, he becomes incredibly
By Erica Landon
affectionate and forms strong bonds with those who show him love and patience.
Teddy, a six-year-old Shepherd mix, came into our care in April 2024 after his previous owner found it too difficult to manage two dogs. Since then, Teddy has shown us just how much love and loyalty he has to give.
With a big personality and an even bigger heart, Teddy craves human companionship. He adores spending time with his people and would thrive in a home where he’s rarely left alone. If you’re looking for a faithful friend to stay by your side, Teddy is your guy.
He’s also highly intelligent and enjoys learning, especially when it involves one-on-one attention. A quiet, pet-free home would be ideal for Teddy, where he can relax, feel safe, and soak up all the love he deserves.
Tetley arrived as a stray in September 2024 and has made great strides since then. At just two years old, this playful boy has lots of love to give, he just needs the right person to help him feel secure.
Tetley has a soft spot for toys, especially tennis balls. One of his favourite things is to gently place a ball in your lap, hoping you’ll join in his favourite game of fetch. It’s in these little moments that Tetley builds
trust and starts to connect. While he can be shy with new people, once you earn his trust, you’ll discover a deeply affectionate and gentle dog. Tetley would thrive in a quiet, patient home where he can settle at
his own pace.
These wonderful dogs have been overlooked for far too long. Each of them has so much to give but just need someone to give them a chance.
If you think you could
offer Ozzy, Teddy, or Tetley the loving home they deserve, please get in touch. Visit www.gawa.org.uk/adopt-apet or email dogs@gawa.org.uk to find out more.
Teddy
Tetley
Ozzy
Money talks Fanny Snaith
Keeping Up With the Neighbours: The expensive illusion of financial success
HAVE you ever caught yourself admiring your neighbour’s new car and wondering if you should upgrade yours too?
Or felt that strange twinge of inadequacy when someone posts their dreamy holiday villa on Instagram while you're wrestling with your energy bill? If so, you're not alone - and you’re not broken. You're just playing a very old game. One that costs more than most people realise. It’s called Keeping Up with the Joneses - and it’s landed millions of people in quiet, suffocating debt.
The moment we start comparing our lives to someone else’s - their house, their gadgets, their lifestylewe enter what I call the False Mirror. It’s a mirror that reflects not truth, but projection. What we think someone else’s life means becomes a distorted measure of our own worth. And when our sense of worth is rattled, many of us reach for the quickest comfort available: spending money.
In my work as a money coach, I’ve seen this pattern in people across all income levels. High earners living paycheck to paycheck. Small business owners taking out loans they don't need – or the business can’t afford. Parents stretching beyond their limits to host the “perfect” birthday party. Why? Because of a subconscious belief that if we look like we’re doing well, we must be okay.
Here’s the thing: financial peace doesn’t come from appearing successful - it comes from feeling safe, aligned, and in control of your choices.
What Are You Really Buying?
Let’s break this down. Imagine your neighbour rolls up in a brand-new electric SUV. It’s sleek, silent, and smacks of eco-luxury. You smile and nod. But inside, a little spark goes off. A mix of envy, pressure, maybe even shame. That’s your nervous system reacting. And that reaction is not about the car. It’s about what the car represents to you. Respect. Security. Belonging. Admiration.
What you’re really craving might not be the object - it might be a sense of identity. This is where the financial trap snaps shut. If you try to fill that emotional hole with
external stuff, it never ends. It’s like trying to quench a thirst by eating sand.
The Emotional Cost of Comparison
Most people don’t realise how deeply this performance culture is embedded in us. We're raised on it. Social media fuels it. Advertisers thrive on it. And without realising, we begin to confuse our financial decisions with emotional ones. In the coaching I offer, we look at the being behind the doing. Ask yourself:
- Am I spending to impress, or to express?
- If no one saw this purchase, would I still make it?
- What do I believe this will “fix” about me?
Often, we’re chasing an internal sense of value using external tools. And that rarely works. You can’t “buy” your way into feeling worthythough it’s understandable why we try.
The Eight Archetypes at Play
This is where our money archetypes come in - internal personas that drive our financial habits. (See www.fannysnaith.com)
When you're triggered by comparison, it might be:
• The Innocent, who feels they’re falling behind and wants someone to rescue them.
• The Fool, who leaps into purchases to get a quick high.
• The Martyr, who spends on others to feel needed or important.
• The Tyrant, who hoards and controls to avoid feeling vulnerable.
None of these are “bad”. They’re just old software running the show. The key is to notice who’s driving — and whether you want to keep letting them.
Stepping Into Your Financial Truth
So, what’s the alternative? We stop playing the game. Not by opting out of life, but by opting into our own truth. That means:
• Knowing what enough looks like for you.
• Spending in alignment with your values, not your ego.
• Learning to sit with discomfort rather than spending through it.
• Becoming the Magician - the archetype who creates from clarity, not comparison. When you start living from this place, money becomes a tool - not a trap. You can stop performing and start designing a financial life that feels good from the inside out.
Try This at Home Want to get out of the neighbour comparison loop? Here’s a quick 3-step exercise.
1. Pause: Next time you feel triggered by someone else’s purchase, take a breath. Where do you feel it in your body?
2. Name It: Ask, “What do I believe this item represents? What am I really craving?”
3. Redirect: What’s one small way you could give yourself that feeling without spending or performing? This tiny practice, done regularly, can rewire your money mindset in profound ways.
The Real Flex? Financial Peace
• Sleeping well because you're not in debt.
• Spending in line with your values.
• Not needing to prove anything to anyone.
• Having emotional peace around money. It’s saying: “I don’t need to perform wealth. I am well.”
Let’s be real - the world isn’t short on people trying to look rich. What we need more of are people who feel calm, grounded, and empowered around money. If you want to start this journey, you don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Just notice. Get curious. Have the courage to stop performing and start being. And next time your neighbour rolls up in something flashy?
Smile. Wish them well. And remind yourself: you’re on your own financial adventure. And it’s exactly where you’re meant to be.
Fanny Snaith offers money coaching and financial therapy.
TEST YOUR BRAINPOWERPuzzles
Quiz Challenge
1. The Madeira archipelago in the Atlantic forms part of which European country?
2. The singer Cliff Richard was born in 1940 in which country?
3. Which type of horse is known as a gelding?
4. Stephen Graham stars in which 2025 hit Netflix series about a 13-year-old boy who is arrested for murder?
5. What T is a three-pronged spear and the name of a ballistic missile?
6. In film and television crews, what is a gaffer?
7. A Promised Land is the 2020 memoir of which US president?
8. Brian Clough, Nuno Espirito Santo, Steve Cooper and Paul Hart were all managers at one time of which English football club?
9. The French Côte d’Opale mirrors which English coastal feature?
10. Steven Spielberg won the Best Director Oscar in 1999 for which film?
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.
1. Spoil a single occasion by the sea (8)
5. Still fifty in the river (4)
8. Was there once a man from this Irish town? (8)
9. Prince on a Russian space satellite (4)
11. Not winning artwork? (7)
13. Rough American tramp pays oddly (5)
14. Adding merely a dash (11)
18. One French 21 Across used to unfasten (5)
19. Instance was more than enough (7)
21. Fastener at one’s fingertips (4)
22. Malleable goods used in a computer (8)
24. Oil platform by a Baltic port (4)
25. Useless material for old US stage (4,4)
QUICK CROSSWORD
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.
1. Leading mountaineer to yodel new tune (6)
2. Dance coming from Burma (5)
3. Becoming more dull like a mountain lake? (10)
4. Worn outside part of machinery (3)
6. An old railway worker – he’s dependent on charity (7)
7. Large number freely tarry with the victim (6)
10. Not applied by editor being absent-minded (10)
12. Information concerning a literary style (5)
15. Baying to get sound pay rise first (7)
16. Bow Street plant? (6)
17. Rely on having some independence (6)
20. Quiet Scotsman in the post office (5)
23. A few lines due to be reported (3)
NONAGRAM
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
and each column must contain the
3 x 3
and so
1
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:
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).
EQUALISER: CRYPTIC CROSSWORD: QUICK CROSSWORD: Across – 1 Linoleum; 8 Apiary; 9 Font; 10 Own; 11 Ironic; 12 Basilica; 15 Arctic; 16 Chalet; 20 Harmed; 24 Captor; 27 All there; 28 Sacrum; 29 Pat; 30 Bier; 31 Chrome; 32 Rehearse. Down – 2 Isobar; 3 Outfit; 4 Exotic; 5 Maniac; 6 Mimosa; 7 Praise; 12 Bash; 13 Scar; 14 Lime; 17 Heat; 18 Late; 19 Tyre; 21 Apathy; 22 Mirror; 23 Damper; 24 Clutch; 25 Phobia; 26 Orders.
– 1 Maritime; 5 Calm; 8 Limerick; 9 Amir; 11 Drawing; 13 Bumpy; 14 Hyphenating; 18 Unpin; 19 Example;
Recipes Steph Williams
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Puree with Mint Vinaigrette Lamb Chops, Mint and Asparagus Puree with Mint Vinaigrette
Lamb Chops, Mint and Asparagus
Lamb Chops are balanced by the sweetness of mint in this dish. An absolute winning combination that adds an unexpected burst of flavour and freshness. This recipe is great as part of a family BBQ to give the Lamb that extra char or as a mid-week evening meal. To create this dish. It should take you around 25-30 minutes and each serving contains only 4g of carbs.
Ingredients
Serves 2
Lamb
• 4 Lamb Chops
• Salt & Pepper to season
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
Asparagus & Mint Puree
• 200g Asparagus
• Salt & Pepper to season
• 75ml Vegetable Stock (See Recipe Notes)
• 5 Mint Leaves
Mint Vinaigrette (Serves 3)
• 15 Mint Leaves
• 1/4 Red Onion
Joyce Brooks Lingerie Boutique
Part of the Cavendish House Independent Collection
• 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes
• 1 tablespoon chopped Capers
• 1 teaspoon Caper Brine
• 1.5 tablespoons Lemon Juice
• 1.5 tablespoons Olive Oil
Instructions
l Season the Lamb and set aside.
l Meanwhile to make the Vinaigrette, finely chop all of the ingredients, stir together and set aside.
l Boil/steam the Asparagus until soft and drain. Approx. 15 mins. Ensure you chop the bottom of the stalk off first. They will snap in their natural place.
l Blend with Mint, Stock, Salt & Pepper until smooth.
l Pan fry the Lamb until it reaches the desired pinkness.
Morning Detox Shots
Recipe notes
BBQ'ing the Lamb rather than using a pan will be great to add that extra char but be careful not to over cook causing the meat to toughen. A little pink in the middle is always best. Remove as much stalk of the Mint as possible before blending with the Asparagus. Save some Asparagus tips for garnish.
I've also used Pomegranate Seeds and Mint Leaves to garnish.
Tip
Use only half a stock cube or it will be far too salty. The Puree can be frozen.
With a punch of flavour and nutrients, these shots will definitely wake you up in the morning! The ingredients will provide you with antiinflammatory health benefits, an immunity boost, will kick start your metabolism and aid digestion. They are also great for the skin! It has a sweet, sour and spicy taste and is gluten free. You can easily buy these types of shots in the well-known coffee shops and supermarkets but it is so much cheaper and will only take 5 minutes to make at home, all you need is a blender. Each shot contains 5g of carbs.
Ingredients
8 Shots
• Juice of 3 Lemons
• 3cm knob of fresh Ginger Root
• 1 Green Apple
• 2 Celery Sticks
• Pinch of Cayenne
Instructions
l Add all of the ingredients to a blender and mix thoroughly for 30 seconds at least until you get a smooth consistency.
l Grab your favourite shot glasses, pour and enjoy. The remainder can be stored in the fridge for the rest of the week.
Recipe notes
The consistency is more of a pulp than a liquid. If this is not for you, strain the mixture through a sieve, however you will lose some of the taste
and nutrition.
Ground Ginger can be used if fresh is not available.
If you find it too harsh, just
add some sweetener.
Don’t use more than a small pinch of Cayenne, or as it will be far too over-powering.
l
l
l
THE FEELING
Full stamp duty paid on selected homes up to £70,000*
Show home open daily 10am - 5pm
Hayfield Heights, Ashmead Drive, Gotherington, GL52 9ES
*T&Cs
Gloucestershire exit Metro Bank One Day Cup
SOMERSET through to the Metro Bank One-Day Cup semi-finals with a six-wicket victory over Gloucestershire at the Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton. The visitors were bowled out for 155 in 40.5 overs after winning the toss, skipper Jack Taylor topscoring with 43. There were three wickets each for Jake Ball and Tom Lammonby, while Jack Leach sent down ten overs of left-arm spin for miserly figures of two for 23.
Two rain-interruptions
left Somerset facing a revised target of 149 in 45 overs. They reached it with over 13 overs to spare, skipper James Rew leading the way with 46, and now
face a trip to meet Worcestershire in the semifinals on Sunday.
Gloucestershire never recovered from losing James Bracey, so prolific in the competition this season, to the second ball of the match, bowled by Ball pushing forward defensively. The decision to bat first had come as a surprise as play began under heavily overcast skies, with the floodlights on, and a threat of rain later in the day.
Cameron Bancroft looked in good touch, striking two big sixes in a half-century stand for the second wicket with Ollie Price. It was 56 for two in the 14th over when the Australian, on 34, played a
checked drive to Kasey Aldridge and saw the bowler take a juggling return catch.
Price had made 25 when judged lbw to a ball from Lammonby angled into his pads and 97 for four as Ben Charlesworth was caught at mid-on aiming a back-foot forcing shot off the leftarm seamer. Lammonby had figures of three for 20 when Graeme van Buuren popped up a soft return catch and departed for a duck looking suspiciously at the pitch.
At 97 for five, Gloucestershire were in trouble. With 29 runs added, Tommy Boorman fell leg-before sweeping a ball from Leach, who followed up by having
Daaryoush Ahmed brilliantly caught by Aldridge racing towards the long-on boundary from mid-off and taking the ball just inside the rope as it dropped over his shoulder.
Jack Taylor drove a catch to mid-off give Ben Green a wicket, having faced 59 balls and hit 6 fours. With his departure at 140 for eight went Gloucestershire’s last hope of a meaningful total and Ball wrapped up the innings as Matt Taylor and Craig Miles edged through to wicketkeeper James Rew.
Somerset’s reply had reached 16 without loss when the forecast rain arrived at 2.25pm. Play resumed at 3.50pm, with
no initial reduction in overs or the victory target, and with just five runs added Archie Vaughan was superbly caught by wicketkeeper Bracey diving low to his right off Matt Taylor.
Lewis Goldsworthy pulled a six off Taylor before Lammonby, on 18, played a loose drive at Craig Miles’ second delivery of the game, well wide of off-stump, and gave a routine catch to Bracey with the total on 47 in the 12th over.
At 53 for two, rain forced a further 25 minute break and the overs and target were reduced. James Rew quickly settled in, lofting a ball from van Buuren over long-off for six as he and
Goldsworthy added 39 for the third wicket before the latter fell for 27, caught and bowled off a leading edge in Ahmed’s first over. Having survived a loud appeal for a catch behind off Josh Shaw, the Somerset captain prospered in tandem with younger brother Thomas Rew, who took a six and four off an Ahmed over before pulling Jack Taylor’s first ball of the match over deep square for another maximum.
Taylor had Rew senior stumped by Bracey having faced 53 balls, but by then the outcome was beyond doubt and his precocious sibling saw Somerset home, ending unbeaten on 40 off just 39 deliveries.
Tomos Williams sets aside Lions heartbreak as new season aproaches
2024/25 Gallagher PREM Player of the Season, Tomos Williams, has been named Club Captain at Gloucester for the 2025/26 season by Director of Rugby, George Skivington.
The Welshman has been a revelation since joining from Cardiff Rugby last summer, and was rightly rewarded for a terrific season in Cherry & White with his Player of the Season award and a call-up to the British & Irish Lions squad for their summer tour of Australia.
A general at half-back, Williams was instrumental in Gloucester's attacking revolution last season, marshalling the side around the park and producing moments of individual brilliance.
Off the field, Williams' leadership and commitment have also impressed the coaches at Kingsholm.
Williams will be assisted in his duties by Vice Captains Arthur Clark and Seb Atkinson, who both made their international debuts for England this summer.
On his appointment, Williams commented: “I’m incredibly proud to be named captain of such a historic rugby club.
“When I first arrived at Gloucester, I quickly learned how much this club means to the city and how passionate the fans are.
“It's been an honour and a privilege to represent them, both home and away, and to have their support behind us.
“We’ve got an exciting, ambitious group here, and I’m looking forward to leading them on the pitch.”
Director of Rugby, George Skivington, added: “Firstly, I would like to thank Lewis Ludlow for the great work he’s done as Club Captain over the past five-and-a-half seasons.
“He's fully embodied what this Club is all about: passion, desire, grit; and continues to do so every time he steps on the field. He'll continue to be an important player for us, but we felt it was the right time to select a new Captain.
“Ever since Tomos came in, we viewed him as someone with lots of leadership potential, and over the past season, he's really impressed us with the way he communicates with the lads and the standards that he sets.
His performances on the field and the impact he has on those around him speak for themselves.
“Arthur and Seb are two really impressive young men and are both already strong leaders in their own right.
“Like Tomos, they demand incredibly high standards of themselves and their teammates, and that'll only be positive in pushing our Club onwards.
“I'm sure fans will join me in congratulating Tomos, Arthur and Seb on their appointments, whilst also recognising Lud’s contribution as the Club's longest-serving Club Captain of the professional era.”
